Women's Transformation Jacket
Wanting to be protected and look the part for my moto-training (pg. 98), I looked to Harley-Davidson Motorclothes for gear. I wore the Women's Transformation Jacket with Switchback Technology-basically a water-resistant nylon jacket with zip-off panels to create a mesh jacket with plenty of airflow. The Transformation includes a zippered front, a removable waterproof liner, handwarmer pockets and removable body armor in the shoulders and elbows. An adjustable waist and action back, reflective piping and embroidered Harley-Davidson graphics front and back complete the look. The Transformation is really three jackets in one: (mostly) waterproof with the liner in place; a cold-weather jacket with the panels on; a summer jacket with the panels off and armored in any configuration for max protection. The venting kept me cool as a cucumber in the blazing July sun, and removing and replacing the panels was a breeze even for my spatially challenged brain. The Women's Transformation Jacket is available in black only at Harley-Davidson Dealers and retails for $275-$290.
Ladies Hustin Boots
The Hustins are classicly styled Western-look boots constructed with full-grain, drum-dyed leather uppers and oil- and abrasion-resistant outsoles. I chose these boots for their high level of protection (they reach nearly 12 inches up my legs) and because I loved the way they looked with jeans. They're also very, very comfortable, both on the bike and for walking around. Available in black and brown for $132 at Harley dealers everywhere.
Women's Destination Helmet
This DOT-approved half-lid features fiberglass construction, a D-ring chin strap, removable visor, soft inner comfort liner and removable neck liner. The Destination proved plenty comfortable over two long days on the range, and though it can't provide quite as much protection as a full- or open-face lid, its lack of chin bar did help me feel less closed-in, which was helpful during my initial rides. There was plenty of airflow to keep me cool, and my ability to hear the range instructors was helpful as well. A helmet bag is included in the $125 retail price. Get one at your local H-D dealer.
Journey Unisex Goggle
This Day/Night riding goggle features photochromic lenses that automatically transition from light to dark, eliminating the need to change lenses. According to the Milwaukee folks, the Journey goggle meets ANSI standards, provides UV protection, offers interchangeable clear lenses for night riding, includes a chrome hard case and microfiber bag, and is designed to fit a smaller face. $125 at your local Harley dealer.
Gauntlet Gloves
The Gauntlet Gloves are part of Harley-Davidson's FXRG (Functional Riding Gear) line, and feature drum-dyed leather construction along with "an exclusive waterproof Gore-Tex liner" to keep your digits dry. Other features include polycarbonate-reinforced knuckles and finger pads for a high level of abrasion protection, an accordion palm design for flexibility, comfort and a no-bunch fit, and a built-in thumb squeegee to wipe moisture off your faceshield. I found them plenty comfortable even with lots of clutch and throttle work. And though they're a touch stiff when brand new, they broke in nicely after a few hours of riding. $120 at your local Harley dealer.