Electric vest for cold weather.
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Stage III
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Mississippi
Electric vest for cold weather.
My wife and I are planning a cross country trip in the early spring, like end of February early and I was wonder if anyone out there has used a heated vest? If so, what are the pros and cons?
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 14,744
Likes: 402
From: Phoenix '53, '88, '09 Big Twins
plan your route- I don;t know if you are headed West, but if you are, I-40 in Northern AZ is 7000 feet +....I-10 maxes out at 1200 feet.
the temp differential would be typically 20ş between the 2 elevations, but it could be more and might be enough to turn a rainy day in PHX into snow at Flagstaff (where the ski slopes are soon to open)
lots use heated vests and or gloves- you can wire into your bikes electrical system
or some hunting gear takes batteries or uses rechargable battery packs- a smarter move if you think you might have a second use for them.
means no load on the electric system and you charge them in the hotel at night
suggest you check your local classifieds, I see heated gear on my local craigslist all the time-
motorcycle specific stuff can be expensive- check the outdoors stores.
think about socks too!
mike
the temp differential would be typically 20ş between the 2 elevations, but it could be more and might be enough to turn a rainy day in PHX into snow at Flagstaff (where the ski slopes are soon to open)
lots use heated vests and or gloves- you can wire into your bikes electrical system
or some hunting gear takes batteries or uses rechargable battery packs- a smarter move if you think you might have a second use for them.
means no load on the electric system and you charge them in the hotel at night
suggest you check your local classifieds, I see heated gear on my local craigslist all the time-
motorcycle specific stuff can be expensive- check the outdoors stores.
think about socks too!
mike
Last edited by mkguitar; Nov 12, 2016 at 11:46 PM.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 9,193
Likes: 494
From: Richmond, VA
If you have a windshield, as I do, the only heated gear I have ever needed has been heated gloves. Heck, I used mine last night and it was only 49 degrees. That being said, you never said what bike you have, do you have lowers, and do you have a windshield? I have a windshield, lower fairings (or engine guard covers) and never needed more than heated gloves. That being said, why fart around??? If you are concerned, buy the heated gear, wire it up and be done with it.
Advanced
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 61
Likes: 4
From: Sequim, WA
I've used Aerostich heated vests for years. Heated vest makes all the difference in the world on a cold day. If you have a battery tender lead on your bike, the vest plugs into it.
Some people advise against using that lead but my experience has been no problem. Been doing that for years with no ill effects on my bikes.
Some people advise against using that lead but my experience has been no problem. Been doing that for years with no ill effects on my bikes.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 6,129
Likes: 143
From: Santa Cruz
Got my first heated vest about 25 years ago. Won't go back. using Gerbings heated gloves and jacket liner now. Life is warm...
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 6,087
Likes: 1,962
From: Somewhere on the Bourbon trail
Heated vest might be nice, but if your arms get cold the ride might not be as enjoyable, especially for the wife. Get the heated jacket liner. It's extra wind blocking protection also.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2015
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From: Ohio
Another vote for the liner - I use the HD one touch liner and gloves. The one touch system is nice because I've got three levels of heat that are really easy to change while riding.
I tried a heated vest for a little while but it was real clear that I needed something warming my arms.
I tried a heated vest for a little while but it was real clear that I needed something warming my arms.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 23,000
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Yes and they work well. We ride in what some consider cold down to zero some times.
To work there best vest needs to be next to the body T **** or one layer then it must fit snug. The best ones are like the BMW ones that inflate to fit snug. We have Heat demons.
I agree if cold bothers you go with a full heated liner.
To work there best vest needs to be next to the body T **** or one layer then it must fit snug. The best ones are like the BMW ones that inflate to fit snug. We have Heat demons.
I agree if cold bothers you go with a full heated liner.