It was time for a new all weather jacket and I decided to upgrade to no liner. Atomic Moto/Brian was most helpful, as usual. We discussed my bike (R1200gs), riding preferences (lots of forest & farm roads...dirt & gravel, multi-day, camping), age, and sizing. He helped go thru the many options and choose between the options. Excellent service!
The fit is trim with room for a puffy underneath and plenty of sleeve length for my long arms. Not sure I will use the multitude of pockets but there are many options. Appears very well made with quality features - yes, it is a Klim.
I have been out for two day rides. Very comfortable on the bike. Two comments on the zippers: the forearm zippers feel stiff and long, poking into the bend of my elbow. I hope they 'soften' up. Second, I was pleased how easily the zippers opened while riding (the zippers on my Carlsbad pants require much more effort). The airflow on a 78 degree day was very good. Thanks Atomic Moto!
The Carlsbad jacket and pants saved me from serious injury in a recent accident. I recently came off at 80km in outback Australia. Slid down the dirt road with the bike on top of me. I suffered a broken ankle and that is all. No other bruising or grazes, no gravel rash. The broken ankle was due to foot catching the edge of the road and rotating.
Great padding around the ankle. I have a wide foot and these fit great.
A benchmark boot lives up to the hype. OK, we know that Gaerne makes a premium motorcycle boot, and the Balance Oiled are, if not their apex offering, pretty darn close to it. It is genuinely hard to describe how beautiful these boots are until you hold them in your hand. Everything about them oozes quality and attention to detail. At the same time, these boots are clean and simple. Everything you need and nothing you don't. Instantly comfortable and the gum rubber sole is awesome on and off the bike. I didn't purchase these for off-road use because they don't offer the requisite level of protection for anything more than a fire road. For me, these are an urban or weekend street boot that feels good, looks good and does everything I need it to. And boy are they a looker. People who know nothing about motorcycling comment on these boots. The consensus is that they are "wicked cool".
The Gaerne Oiled Leather Balance boots are a pretty complete package out of the box, but swapping out the OEM insoles for these babies is a very nice upgrade. Super comfortable and takes an already awesome pair of boots to the next level.
Fit was true to size. Very comfortable so far. Havenot hit any water yet so not sure how waterproof they are. Very happy with the purchase so far. Would recommend them.
You guys are always fair and consistent. Good company to deal with.