Riding with shorts
Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 123
Likes: 2
From: Indianapolis IN
In the early 90's I was running a little errand on my brand new Harley so I decided to wear shorts. Got to the parking lot and forgot I didn't put the kickstand down and just laid the bike over. First reaction was boy that was really stupid as I've been riding since the 1966. Looked around and nobody saw me so I picked it back up and put the kickstand out and put it on it. Walked into the store got what I needed and was in line and a lady behind me said sir are you ok? I said sure why? She said look at your right calf. I looked down and blood was dripping down my leg and my sock was soaked with blood. I didn't even know I did it. The pipe was so hot I guess it just seared it and had no pain at all. It really looked bad though and it took forever to heal. First and last time I ever road in shorts!!!
Charlie
Charlie
Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 194
Likes: 0
From: california
I have and will still ride with shorts. Yes I have gotten a little singe from the pipe. My D&D exhaust is really tucked in close to motor and frame and doesn't stick out like the stock exhaust. As for hitting the pavement that pair of levis will peel just like a banana.
It's a free country, do as you please, I personally always wear protective gear. I also agree with that regular levis don't provide much protection which is why 90% of the time I wear amored or riding pants even when its hot. I find that being covered is usually cooler than exposing myself to the sun.
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,000
Likes: 5
From: S.E. NC
Every one saying the Levis won't help, maybe try Wranglers. I killed a deer couple years ago on my Ironhead Sportster and ended up 120 feet from point of impact, according to the police report. I have no idea how much was "air" time and how much on the ground but I only had two small holes in my jeans.
Road Captain
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 730
Likes: 1
From: Maryland
Not a fan of wearing shorts when riding. Have done it before riding local around town but don't anymore.
I was riding into Ocean City last Saturday and there were 3 sportbikes all 2up constant lane changing, riding in the shoulder and betwen the two lanes in the traffic on the Rt50 bridge on the way into town. They looked so stupid with their bathing suits, fli-flops and Joe Rocket jackets. I mean whats the point of the jackets???? And the girls had on bathing suits, no shorts and Joe Rocket jackets too. Bikes looked pretty good from behind, but just plain Stupid!!!!
I was riding into Ocean City last Saturday and there were 3 sportbikes all 2up constant lane changing, riding in the shoulder and betwen the two lanes in the traffic on the Rt50 bridge on the way into town. They looked so stupid with their bathing suits, fli-flops and Joe Rocket jackets. I mean whats the point of the jackets???? And the girls had on bathing suits, no shorts and Joe Rocket jackets too. Bikes looked pretty good from behind, but just plain Stupid!!!!
Road Master
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 832
Likes: 6
From: Vermont
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Road Captain
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 527
Likes: 42
From: Sequim, WA
Let those who ride decide. I've worn shorts once, but had my leather chaps on over them. I won't do that again only because I felt warmer than wearing jeans under the chaps. I commute to work every day in dress pants and dress shirt. Full leathers, though. Even in 90+ degrees, it's not too bad. Good quality leather is the key. Fox Creek!
Last edited by paulhog; Jun 15, 2012 at 11:21 AM.
