BDBGoalie

Audi is evil and expensive. Ducati is expensive. No good can come from it.

Yea, that is one thing I forgot to mention. I ride with earplugs. But I also sort of take that as the more air that goes in the louder it will be. My .02c I'll add that in though.

$725 I got this to replace my RX-7 RR4 because it was getting old and had a few scratches on it. A huge amount of R&D goes into these helmets and there is a reason a lot of racers choose them, some even when they are not being sponsored by Arai. They offer great features and excellent protection. As always with Arai, it feels wonderful inside. Very soft and comfortable, and the material is quick drying and moisture wicking. The liner and cheek pads are removable and interchangeable with many different sizes to allow you to get a perfect fit. When trying on an Arai, remove the cheek pads. They use lots of different shell sizes so there isn't just padding being added as the size changes. You want to match the top of your head to the helmet, and then adjust the cheek pads as needed. A lot of people will end up with loose helmets because the cheeks fit tight in these, which makes them bump up a size unnecessarily. Arai also uses a side pod pressure fit system to retain their shields. They can be a bit of a pain to figure out initially how to change them, but once you get it the process is pretty easy. These side pod systems also REQUIRE maintenance, but it only takes like five minutes to clean and lube them. If you need help or are frustrated, just send me a PM. Arai helmets are also very light weight, and a little shorter in where they come down on your chin. The overall design and shape distributes the little weight to a point where you really don't even know its there once it is fitted properly. The aerodynamics are excellent as well. The airflow these helmets have is wonderful, but they are loud. I ride with earplugs so it is not an issue for me. I've always thought that the more air moving with just mean more noise. The noticeable changes in the Corsair V over the RR4 are different, but not huge. The visor is 5mm wider or each side. You can notice a little bit more peripheral vision, but not much. You do have to buy new shields. The cheek pads now have a EMS quick release pull tab. A nice feature as long as they know to look for it. The RR4 cheek pads will still fit if you had different sizes in your old helmet. That will eliminate the quick release tab however. The airflow is better than the RR4. They added an adjustable spoiler in the rear. I haven't really messed with it much yet. My helmet came with a weak retention pin on the center vent. The company I ordered from shipped me a replacement at no charge so the issue was resolved quickly and easily. I have encountered no other downsides with this helmet. I love Arais. I made the choice a few years to spend the extra money and its worth it. The comfort of the helmet will make you wear it every time you ride. It flows great airflow, offers wonderful vision, and weighs nothing. Not to mention when it comes down to it, you're protecting one of the most important places on you.

$325 (September 2011) I bought these to replace a set of Sidis that were too small for me. They are designed like a normal race boot, but include a fixed inner boot with a lacing system. The comfort on these things is awesome. Absolutely awesome. The interior is really cushy and comfortable. The boot lacing makes your foot very secure but not overly tight or pinching. It feels like a tennis shoe on the inside. The exterior is armored and had joint stiffening where needed. They give a little flex in the ankles for shifting/braking, but little to no side to side movement. When I went down on the Dragon, the swingarm came down on my leg. I had a calf injury from where the spool hit me, but the rest of my lower leg was fine. I had a slightly bruised foot. I definately feel that if I had not been wearing these (Or another race level boot) I would have had more serious injuries. The boots held up great. Minor scratches but nothing functional. You can't even really tell unless you look close. The venting also works really well. If you tuck you foot in, you won't catch a huge amount of air, but it will still breath. Tilt it out a bit and they flow really well. Two downsides. My left book squeaks when I walk. No idea why. The right does not. It has done so before and after the crash. The toe sliders are a new design for 2011, and they come off a bit easier. ****IF you buy the 2011 S-MX Plus, you will not find replacement sliders online****** The only sliders sold were for the old models. I searched for like a month before I finally broke down and called Alpinestars. However when I called Alpinestars they turned this downside into a positive. I asked to order a set of sliders because I lost one. They forwarded me to the warranty department, took my information, and shipped me a set for free. I never even asked, and they sure wouldn't let me pay for it. So a big thumbs up to Alpinestars for their excellent customer service!! Overall, I love these boots. They are so comfortable I wear they whenever I ride. Crash tested and approved. I will update this after the trackday on the 12th.

$200 (September 2011) I got these to replace a set of damaged SP-1s that I had been using for a few seasons. The feel I get from theses gloves is awesome. It really feels like you're wearing a second skin. I really like the level of control they allow me. The interior is really soft and comfortable. The top of the interior is lined with Kevlar. They fit snug, and stretch a little bit, but not much. I'd advise trying a pair on before you buy, or go through a company with a good exchange program. The armor seems well built with padding, extra leather, and plates in the high risk crash areas. The 3rd and 4th finger bridge is a nice extra feature for me, but I also only use 1-2 fingers on my levers. They flow decent air, but being a protection focused glove, your hands will sweat a bit if its really hot out. They're fine in 70°s - low 80°s for me. They stay decently warm in the mid 50°s as well. The only downside is the cost. $200 is a hefty price to pay for a pair of gloves. However, I find the comfort and feel they give me makes up for that. I'll never ride without gloves because these are so comfortable. Overall I love them. Well worth the money for me. I will update this review after my track day on the 12th. I will try and snap some pictures when I'm home next as well.

$150 (September 2011) I've been riding with this since last fall and really enjoy it. I survived getting sliding off the dragon with only minor injuries, but I also didn't land directly on my back. (Well I don't think I did anyways. I was kind of tumbling down a hill so its a little fuzzy) It breathes real nice and its not obtrusive. I can remove the back plates from my jackets and use this in place of them without much of a noticeable difference. It fits nice and snugly in my leathers and did not move around during the two and a half days of riding. The waist belt has two sets of straps so you can really cinch it down. That is a nice feature as the day goes on because tightening that will help support your back. You can also adjust the straps up and down on the back plate. There is also armor that is sandwiched between the two belt layers, and can be moved to sit directly on your kidneys. The shoulder straps are easy to adjust and can be used in normal or crossed configuration. Supposedly you can snug a chest protector up nicely in the crossed configuration, but I haven't gotten to using that armor yet. Overall I'm really happy with it. It seems to be well built and capable of doing its job without being obtrusive. I'll update this review after my track day on the 12th. I will also try and snap some pics when I'm back home in a week and replace the stock image.

I'm about a 42-44 jacket size, and I've worn a Medium in Joe Rocket for years with about a 20 lbs fluctuation in weight and no fitment issues. They seem to fit normal sized to me. Now that is just their Textile/Mesh, which have lots of adjustment. I can't say anything about their leather.

I use a Knox Contour (Non-race version). It is about $150 and is very versatile. With the removal of the jacket's soft back armor, it really isn't that much of a difference. It just sticks out past the jacket. My friends my fun of my tail. The shoulder straps secure it comfortably, and the waist belt actually serves a dual purpose of retention and supporting your mid and lower back.

I'll have to look that up then. It was explained differently in my CCW class.

Actually that is not true in self-defense cases. You are guilty because you already confirmed you killed someone. The burden then falls on you to prove the reason you did it was in justifiable self defense. Of course in my opinion I think Zimmerman went way overboard in regards to following in his vehicle and on foot. But I think the kid picked the fight. So Zimmerman may have been wrong for starting the situation, but once he was attacked the use of the weapon to defend himself was justified. (Especially since the "kid" wasn't the 14 year old Fox loves to show on TV, but a much more grown up person) He should catch a charge for involuntary manslaughter, definately not murder.

Joe Rocket with elbows. I usually remove the back plate in favor of my back protector. Arai Helmet, A* gauntlets and race boots. Armored jeans or suit if riding aggressively. Pay the money for the good gear and get it in the right size and you'll love wearing it.

True. I was addressing the current design, which has come a long way from where it started. During my time carrying and using the newer and current designs I've never had any worry of a drop fire. Now being worried about getting shot by someone behind me that can't operate their weapon properly is a different story entirely. I would be somewhat apprehensive about carrying an early model locked and loaded.

Sorry, I meant in addition to taping. As far as the bike starting I guess I'll find that out when I'm home next.

Hopefully the ride goes smoothly and safely. If you're around my area (Ft. Campbell - Clarksville, TN) on your way back you're welcome to stop by. Just PM me first so contact info can be exchanged. I will be out of town 20-22 Apr 2012.

Removing the lights fuse should take care of that, right?

Duh. Brain fart. That is what I get for trying to comment on too much at once. I'll edit the post to "Without a hammer strike, the firing pin will not have enough force to ignite the primer. This failure could be caused by a faulty trigger group." Thanks for the correction.

I love to go shooting. I usually go at least once a month. If anyone is ever interested in shooting and they are apprehensive about it, send me a PM. I'm always happy to help anyone out, or just to have another person to bring along. Between myself and my friends we can acquaint you to a wide variety of weapons in a safe and fun environment. Safety course is a good place to start, but a trip to the range with a experienced and patient person can work too. First off, it is not a gun. Guns are artillery pieces. It is a pistol, a rifle, a shotgun, etc. However, if you are shooting a gun, please please invite me. Some rules to live by: 1. Every weapon IS loaded, chambered, and the safety is off. You treat every weapon you touch like that until you personally verify it is unloaded and clear. 2. Never point a weapon at anything you are not willing to kill. 3. Never put your finger on the trigger until you are prepared to shoot. 4. Always keep the weapon pointed down range. 5. Familiarize yourself with the weapon before loading it. Ask any and every question about anything you are unsure about. Home Safety: 1. Your weapons should be kept unloaded and in a locked container. 2. Only keep a weapon you plan on using in a defense situation loaded. That weapon is to be kept in a locked container unless all members of the household are proficient and comfortable with its use. 3. If you have children additional safeguards may need to be put in place. Malfunctions (Failure to feed, Failure to extract, Double feed, Soft primer hit, etc.): 1. If you have a malfunction and you are not familiar with the weapon: a. Keep the weapon pointed down range. b. Engage the safety if possible. c. Remove the magazine if possible. d. Lock the slide to the rear if possible. e. Set the weapon down with the muzzle pointed down range and ask for help. 2. If you have a malfunction and you are familiar with the weapon: a. Slap the magazine to seat it fully in the weapon. b. Pull the charging handle and lock the bolt to the rear/Rack and lock the slide to the rear. c. Observe the chamber is clear and unobstructed. d. Release the bolt catch/slide lock and chamber a new round. e. Tap the forward assist. (Some rifles) f. Squeeze the trigger. CCW: a. Know all your state laws and stay current. b. One drop of alcohol mean no more carrying that evening. c. Fire your carry weapon once a month. 50 rounds at a minimum. d. Fire a minimum of 50 rounds of your carry ammo to ensure dependability. e. Maintain your carry weapon. f. Exchange your carry ammo every 3-6 months. g. Buy a quality holster. h. Know when exactly you can use deadly force. i. Understand the financial, emotional, and legal ramifications of using deadly force. j. If you are not willing to use deadly force, do not carry a weapon. In a properly functioning closed bolt weapon with a locking bolt, the weapon will not fire without the trigger being pulled. Without a hammer strike, the firing pin will not have enough force to ignite the primer. This failure could be caused by a faulty trigger group. Weapons Stores and Ranges: Blackwing Shooting Center - Weapon store and range. Offer indoor rifle, pistol, and outdoor shotgun ranges. They rent a variety of weapons, including Fully Automatic weapons. Staff is very knowledgeable, helpful, and honest. They will guide you to the right weapon. They are a bit more expensive than others. I purchase all my weapons from them, and will continue to do so. http://www.blackwingsc.com/ The Powder Room - Indoor pistol range and weapon store. I haven't shot there since 2009, so I can't give a current review of the place. They were always knowledgeable and helpful in the past. http://www.powderrm.com/ Vance's Shooting Supplies - Weapon store. Terrible customer service. You take a number and wait 30-45 minutes to be helped. They will sell you whatever you ask for, or whatever is similar, even if they know it does not function properly, or do the job you want it to. They will not help you after a bad purchase without extensive complaining. If anyone is curious as to the details of my two past experiences here, PM me and I will give details. Bottom Line - I will never shop at Vance's again, and I will never encourage anyone else to shop there either.

I agree. That is why I'm running Novice but prepping for higher. At least the option is there should it be available and appropriate.

I'm heading up to Mid-Ohio with a friend for my first novice day on 12 May 2012. I've got about 6 years of riding experience, 4 on sportbikes. I was advised to start in Intermediate, but I feel I might miss some important things by doing that as far as skill/safety development, as well as I don't want to feel pressured that early on. Because of this I am prepping my bike for Intermediate for the chance that I pick it up fast enough to be bumped. My Prep Plans: I will be torquing every bolt I can find on that bike. Safety wiring fill plug, drain plug, filter, radiator cap, and brake lever retaining nut (Because I'm paranoid). Flushing cooling system and replacing with Water Wetter mix. Taping lights. Removing mirrors. Removing light fuse or disconnecting wiring. Taping speedometer. Remove license plate. Clean, lube and adjust chain. Flush brake fluid and replace with High-Temp. Duct tape wheel weights. Secure valve caps. Overkill I know, but it will only take a few hours and then the bike is good for whatever. Not to mention that I will know everything is there and tight. Gear: Helmet Leathers (Novice/Intermediate allows Textile suits w/ >50% zippered)(Mid-Ohio also rents 40-48 sized leathers) Gauntlet gloves Racing boots Undersuit Back protector The list of tools and stuff coming along is extensive as well. I'd suggest making a checklist. But hopefully this helps.

I've always found that most mesh jackets feel like they flow as much air, if not more than just a t-shirt. I also feel way more comfortable riding in gear. Watching a road rash debridement/scrubbing video is always a good motivator too. But as others have said, it's your skin, and your choice.

Oh its strong, no doubt. But some of that protection seems to come at the cost of the material much more so than leather. From my experience you seem to get 1-2 crashes from a textile/mesh, and my leather has taken 3 without complaining too much. My .02.

Easiest way to go (Providing nothing has changed since 2009): Unknown route prior 1. I-185 South for ~50 miles (This will take you through Columbus, GA) 2. After passing the exit for Victory Drive, I-185 turns into Lindsey Creek Parkway, which takes you to the main gate. 3. Right before the main gate there is a small building on the left in the median area. This is the Visitor's Center. Stop there and get a pass. Make sure you have an address with building number in case the guard is feeling moody and won't take Jump School as a vaild destination. (Bldg 2748 Riordan, Ft. Benning, GA, 31905 - Should work) (Once you have the pass you should be able to use any gate) 4. Pass through the gate 5. Right on Custer Rd. (Directly after gate, if you go under the interpass you went too far) 6. Left on Fort Benning Rd. (~1.4 miles) 7. Right on 10th Division Rd. (~.5 miles) 8. Left on Anderson St. (~1.3 miles) (There will be a water tower on the right. If you pass it you went to far.) 9. Left on Marchant St. (~.4 miles) (Anywhere around there should be available parking) 10. Right on Riordan St. (Directly after the Barracks building) 11. Left on Burr St. (There may be parking in the lots around there) 12. The ceremony should be off Burr St., South of the East tower. (32.354536,-84.969273) Hope that helps, and hope they haven't changed too much since I was there.

Picked up a new jacket to replace my rashed Blaster 4.0. Joe Rocket has designed a true 3.5 season jacket. The outer layer is windproof (Tested true) and waterproof (Not tested, nor do I really want to), the inner layer is a fully functional mesh summer jacket (Armor is sewn on the mesh), and the mesh jacket has a fleece thermal vest liner. The outer layer even folds up into itself to create a bag that contains the outer, has enough room for the fleece, and straps to you with the enclosed elastic strap. I've had a chance to test this in 50°-70°, and I have nothing but praise for it. The outer layer does a great job of blocking the wind, and keeping the heat in. It has two waterproof vents that do a good job of flowing air through the jacket if you get warm. Converting the outer to its bag is as easy as flipping it around and rolling it up until the zippered pocket is exposed. Then just stuff and go. The mesh works great as a summer jacket with the liner adding that little bit of warmth if you want it. (I just used the vents for those in-between temperatures and it was fine). The only downside is the fact that since it is Textile/Mesh, crashes tend to destroy them. Overall for $233, having a jacket that will cover all of my street riding seems like a great deal to me.

I was stationed there for Basic and Jump as well. (Now at Ft. Campbell) Hotels are scattered around almost all the exits (I-185 leads into the public gate, lots of exits off it). Lots to do at the mall east of the intersection of I-185 and 80 (Wittlesey Blvd). You are required to meet PPE standards because you are a Family Member (MCoE 210-5, 5-10, a.) PPE: DOT Helmet Eye Protection (Windscreen does not count, glasses are required) Full Fingered Gloves Long Pants Long Sleeved Upper Garment "Sturdy" Over the Ankle Footwear Regulations do not require a reflective vest/belt, but having one in case would be a potential stress reliever. You will also have to provide a Driver's License with Endorsement. You are not required to carry your MSF card. (MCoE 210-5, 5-10, f.) Standard DoD rules apply. (No cell phone while driving, Obey the speed limit to the letter, etc.) If you have any questions feel free to PM me.

Joe Rocket Alter Ego 3.0 Its Textile/Mesh, but it works great in almost all weather conditions. Still armored, so you'd get at least one solid crash out of it before needing replacement.