feature blog image for rynox - riding jacket
03 Oct
Biker's Journal, RIDES & TOURS, Tip of the Iceberg

Smart & Stylish: Picking Your Perfect Riding Jacket

Introduction

When it comes to selecting the ideal riding jacket, the vast range of options available in the market can be overwhelming. With renowned brands like Rynox, Revit, Furugan, Bikeratti, and RS Taichi, understanding the critical differences between jacket types is essential. This comprehensive article will decipher four popular riding jacket categories: Touring, Urban, Race, and Adventure. By the end, you will possess the knowledge required to make an informed decision regarding the riding jacket that best suits your needs, including long drives.

Touring Jackets: Comfort and Versatility for Long Rides

Tailored for long-distance riders seeking the utmost comfort, protection, and versatility, touring jackets excel in meeting these demands. Meticulously crafted, these jackets provide ample storage options, allowing riders to carry their essentials without compromising safety. Touring jackets often feature multiple pockets, compartments, and even dedicated hydration bladder compatibility. Emphasizing functionality and ergonomics, these jackets ensure riders can endure extended rides without sacrificing overall comfort.

Touring Jacket Rs taichi: The Essence of Long-Distance Comfort and Versatility

Key Features of Touring Jackets:

  • Long-lasting and tough materials like Cordura or ballistic nylon.
  • Built-in waterproofing tech keeps you dry in unexpected rain.
  • Ventilation systems keep you cool in hot weather.
  • Customizable fit with adjustable straps and fasteners.
  • Impact zones are reinforced with CE-certified armor for safety.
  • Enhanced visibility with reflective panels or piping in low light.

Urban Jackets: Stylish and Functional for City Living

Catering to riders who predominantly commute within the city or prefer a sleek and stylish look, urban jackets excellently blend fashion and function. With a shorter length resembling casual jackets, these riding jackets still incorporate essential safety features necessary for urban riding.

Rynox Motorcycle Jackets Banner

Key Features of Urban Jackets:

  • Urban jackets have a sleek look and work for daily wear.
  • They use light but strong materials like high-density polyester.
  • Hidden or detachable armor keeps you safe while looking good.
  • These jackets have plenty of pockets for your stuff.
  • You’ll be more visible with subtle reflective elements.
  • Stay cool in warm weather with breathable linings and vents.

Race Jackets: Discover your love for speed!

For those drawn to the thrilling world of motorcycle racing, race jackets are engineered to meet the performance requirements of track enthusiasts. These jackets prioritize speed, aerodynamics, and uncompromising protection, allowing riders to push their limits on the racetrack.

Race Jackets: The Essence of Long-Distance Comfort and Versatility

Key Features of Race Jackets:

  • Sleek designs reduce air resistance for faster rides.
  • They use top-quality leather for toughness.
  • Little holes in the right spots help keep you cool.
  • The jacket fits well and moves with you.
  • Carbon fiber in important spots keeps you safe.
  • There are hard protectors on the shoulders, elbows, and back.

Adventure Jackets: Familiar with off-road adventures.

As the name suggests, adventure jackets are purpose-built for off-road exploration and long-haul adventures. These jackets offer durability, versatility, and adaptability to withstand harsh terrains and variable weather conditions.

Kriega OS-18 Adventure Pack Side Mount - Illustrating the pack's versatility and ease of mounting on the side of a motorcycle for outdoor adventures.

Key Features of Adventure Jackets:

  • Tough materials like Gore-Tex or Teflon keep you dry and comfy.
  • They make these jackets longer and adjustable for sitting or standing.
  • Take out the warm liner when it’s hot, and open vents for cool air.
  • Lots of pockets for your gear and stuff. Support your back with built-in belts.
  • You can choose bright colors for better visibility off-road.

Conclusion

When you pick out your using clothes, it’s like selecting the right tool for the process. There are extraordinary typesf jackets for extraordinary sorts of rides, like long journeys, city commutes, races, or off-road adventures. Each jacket has its own cool stuff. You also should think about how tough it’s miles, how a good deal it costs, how many things it may keep, and how it looks. No remember if you’re happening a big avenue ride, using within the town, racing, or going off-avenue, your jacket can be like a good friend. It keeps you secure and looking excellent whilst you have got amusing to your motorbike.

Don’t forget to Gear up and wear a helmet whenever you ride a bike. Be safe on the road!

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28 Oct
Biker's Journal, Tip of the Iceberg

6 Tips to Choose the Right Riding Boots

Here are the 6 Tips to Choose the Right Riding Boots by a professional expert at 6kiom. Read along to know more and find out the right ways to choose your riding boots for a safe and comfortable ride.

If riding is a part of your life and you respect the various dangers on the roads, then you must have your mind set on picking up some motorcycle riding gear like a high quality helmet or some CE Certified gloves. Sadly, the more often overlooked part of the basic riding gear setup is the Boot. Being a primary contact point with your motorcycle, it is essential for you to not compromise on the comfort and safety of your feet. 

With the growing variety in type and quality of Riding Boots nowadays, it’s getting harder and harder to make a decision while buying a riding boot. On this edition of 6 Things with 6kiom, we are going to help you decide which motorcycle riding boot suits you the best.

Falco boots on bike

Falco Boots on bike

Tip 1:  Purpose

The first thing that would come to mind while even considering a riding boot is what kind of boot to get. Boots offer various levels of protection and comfort based on the use it is expected to get. 

The 5 major types of Motorcycle Riding Boots available are:

  • Race Boots
  • Adventure Boots
  • MX Boots
  • Urban Boots
  • Touring Boots

 

All of these boots have various features and distinctions that make them better for their respective usage. MX Boots like the Falco Level shown below are useful mostly for Motocross or Enduro application, due to their high impact resistance and low ankle mobility.

Falco level motorcross boots

Falco Level (Motocross Boot)

Adventure Boots have better grip in mud for off road applications as compared to Race Boots, which are made for use on tarmac only. Touring Boots and Urban Boots suit a more casual rider who would wear the boots on a more regular basis, with differences mainly in grip and mobility. 

Avoid choosing any riding gear based on its looks, and first decide what terrain and application the boots will see before heading to the riding gear store.

 

Tip 2: Certification

While buying any product nowadays, we often look for some certification or homologation from a reputed source, such as ISI standard. Shouldn’t the same apply for motorcycles? Who tests the expensive motorcycle riding gear to see whether it will protect us as advertised? This is where CE or European Certified comes into action. CE is relied upon worldwide as a standard of quality for a large variety of products, including motorcycle riding gear, toys, clothes, machinery and many more categories.

 

CE certification tagCE Certification tag found on the inside of the Falco Mixto 4 ADV boot

The CE Mark shown above is displayed on product tags, indicating that it has satisfied the legal requirements set by the European Union to be sold in any European Union member country. Hence, for the rest of the world, CE acts as a guarantee for a good quality and reliable product.

For riding gears, CE Certification requires rigorously testing the product in a variety of real life conditions, such as testing for Skin Irritation, Abrasion Resistance, Tear Strength, Seam Strength, and many more criteria.

Back to Earth now- what you need to be looking at while buying riding boots are:

–The CE Mark

–The testing criteria EN 13634: 2017 (The standard for motorcycle riding boots specifically)

–The numbers mentioned below the testing mark, which indicate the quality of the basic features of the boot. 

CE MarkCE Mark and a breakdown of the tag found inside the boot

Tip 3: Protection

The key selling point of a motorcycle riding boot is that it will protect you in case of an accident or fall. In most accidents ranging from small drops at a traffic signal to side swipes on a high speed road, the common places of injury are the arms and legs as they stick further out of the body when compared to the rest of your body. So it’s always a good investment to pick up at least basic protection early. 

Arch protection on Falco bootsArch protection on the Falco Maxx Tech 2 WTR (Urban Boot)

The commonly protected areas on most of the types of boots available are the toes, arch and heel. Touring Boots offer an additional few inches of height to additionally cover the ankle. Race Boots, Race-Touring boots, Motocross/Enduro Boots and Adventure segment boots feature protection up to the shin level, protecting all the above areas and the shin.

Boots made for specific purposes have features to specifically help riders in such accidents. For example, Motocross riders have a tendency to have high impact collisions from a variety of angles, so boots like the Falco Level Boots, Alpinestars Tech 3 Boots and Fly Racing Dirt Maverick Boots feature very rigid builds and low mobility to protect against direct impacts as well as rotational impacts.

Race Boots feature TPU Sliders placed strategically to help the rider slide on tarmac to help track riders more.

 

Tip 4: Materials

One aspect that will significantly influence your riding boot purchase is the materials used in the boot. While boots are available from a variety of brands, the more successful brands will usually offer the nicest and most lightweight materials as they have the highest impact on consumers.


Falco adventure bootsFalco Avantour 2(Adventure Boot)

The first thing you would notice is the outer material. Generally, boots come made out of leather to help in abrasion resistance and also last a long time. Some premium brands use Oil Treated leather to allow for use on even waterproof models.

The inner padding is equally important, being the core of your protective aspects. Falco boots take advantage of D3O Protection inside the boots liner for better impact absorption and a lighter overall boot. D3O also gets used in other premium riding gears like Furygan and Bikeratti for their pants and jackets.

D30 Protection in Falco bootsD3O Protection in Falco Boots

A good boot would also use a quality insole and outsole. Commonly we see Memory Foam and Orthopedic insoles available from the leading brands, and for outsoles the industry leader is Vibram. This material can be found on the Falco Mixto 4 ADV Boot and provides the best possible grip and durability. 

Lastly, take a good look at the inner material of the boot. The best products tend to use branded inner membranes like High-Tex Advanced Membrane, Gore-Tex and Sympatex to provide the best waterproofing solutions for riders. The top of the boot must be comfortable enough to not irritate the skin or ruin your gear. Some shin level boots like the Falco Avantour 2 Adventure Boot shown above feature leather top seams.


Vibram outsole and high Tex advanced membraneVibram Outsole (Left) and High-Tex Advanced Membrane 

Tip 5: Comfort

Ideally, you would want to use your riding boots every time you get on your motorcycle. For some people this is just on the weekends or long rides, and for some it means wearing them daily. So make sure you choose a boot that you feel comfortable in and specific for your use. The best boots in terms of comfort for regular use would be boots from the Touring and Urban boots categories. They offer a lower protection level than some of the shin level boots, but trade in really good mobility and comfort when on or off the bike. 

Some boots feature mobility features such as accordion panels or plastic moving parts to help the foot move, but still be protective. 


Falco flexible riding bootsAccordion Panels on the Falco Oxegen 3 WTR Race-Touring Boot. 

Tip 6: Sizing

A commonly neglected factor while choosing any riding gear is the sizing. Always try on the boot you intend to buy and move around in them. A small riding boot can cause pain and discomfort and a boot too big might not protect you properly. So check if you feel discomfort or pressure in excess on your toes, heel and arch of the foot. Don’t hesitate to ask the salesperson to help you know if the sizing is correct, and only then buy the pair of boots. 

Conclusion

Hopefully this helps you to understand riding boots better before going to buy a pair. Always remember to wear your gear and helmet whenever you are on your bike. Ride safe!

Check our Riding Boots Collection at 6kiom

Also Check our Youtube Channel for the video guide on How to Choose the right Riding Boots

Shop online for Motorcycle Riding Boots at 6kiom

17 May
Biker's Journal

6 Hand Signs every Biker should know

6 Hand Signs every Biker should know by 6kiom:

Safe Bike riding is not just about wearing the right riding gear, Protection, lights or reflective clothing. With more and more vehicles on the road, the safety of not only you but of other riders too is very important. The way of communicating with other riders and commuters while on the road is through the use of hand signals or hand gestures. It’s not just a courtesy but It’s a basic safety to let other riders know whether you are about to take a left or right turn, stop or inform them about any potential road hazard ahead. This May for Motorcycles Awareness Month 6kiom brings you the 6 key hand signals which every biker should be aware of.

Turn Right Hand Signal:

There are two hand gestures for turning right. First option is to extending the right arm fully outside, even though this way is pretty common but not legally acceptable in many countries as bikers may lose the control over the bike. The other recommended way is to extend your left arm out sideways and bent at an angle of 90 degrees at the elbow point. The hand points upwards and pam facing forward.

Turn Left Hand Signal:


Fully extend your left arm at shoulder height while maintaining the balance of the Motorcycle, away from your body, with the palm facing down and all fingers extended. You may also use the index finger to point left.

Stop Hand Signal:


When coming to a stop, extend out your left arm and turn your palm to face backwards. It’s a universal fact that a hand being held up means stop. Due to being on a Motorcycle and having to maneuver it, you can’t face the people being you to hold your hand up and let them know you are coming to a stop. So, this is a safe way to alert them with the same concept of hand being up.

Speed up Hand Signal:


This hand signal is used to tell your fellow bikers to speed up and increase their speed to match your pace. With your left arm extended, do a upward movement with your palm facing up.

Slow down Hand Signal:


Extend your left arm. Do a downward movement with your palm facing down. If for any reason the group needs to slow down, the lead rider can give the signal to everyone and they can then lower their speed.

Road Hazard hand signal:


This hand signal is to let other riders know about the hazard on the road. For Hazard towards your left, extend your left arm with your Index finger pointing towards the ground. For Hazard towards your right, take your right foot and point towards the ground. This signal can also be used to let other riders know that there is something obstructing the road or possibly, an accident up ahead.

For more interesting content on biking – https://www.instagram.com/6kiom/

 

15 Sep
Biker's Journal

Tips To Ride Responsibly

Tips To Ride Responsibly by 6kiom:

Being a biker is far from being clad in leather and chugging beer. It is about being responsible and just enjoying your machine and surrounding while riding. It is about camaraderie and about being a model for those who aspire to own a motorcycle when they are old enough to ride one.

Yes, there is a certain amount of fun in being an outlaw. But none of those apply to the laws to be followed on the road. Being on a motorcycle has additional responsibilities, which a true biker follows assiduously.

Bikes are hard to spot and are vulnerable. The fact that you drive a little automobile does not give you the right to drive recklessly.

Here are some tips on how to be a safe and responsible rider.

Undergo proper training:

One of the perks of owning a motorcycle is also its biggest hazard. Which in our case is learning how to use it. When on road, it’s not just your safety that matters but everyone else’s too. Learn from the professionals before your start. Be it long hauls or crazy ass motocross stunts, train with professionals.

Checks before every ride:

As an owner, it’s always your responsibility to keep your vehicle road-worthy. Ensure every working part of your rides works to their best including the signals and lights.

Be Mindful of your surrounding:

Riding a motorcycle gives you the right to swerve through traffic. But doesn’t give you a get out of jail free pass. Maintain proper distance between vehicles and always keep a lookout for signals and pedestrians.

Know your Strengths: 

Always be mindful of your capabilities and your bike to support you when needed. Blasting at full speed may be fun, but unsafe for you and your fellow riders too.

Wear the right protection:

Your brain and bones look better inside your body than on the road. Always be accountable for your safety. Wear proper riding gear with appropriate certification to ensure safety. Keep in mind your riding style and needs before you decide on what you require.

When to and When not to:

You should pick your moments carefully for when you go on Full Monty with the throttle and when to slow on down. It comes with experience and being responsible. The level of wisdom you acquire with experience can be life-changing for you or your fellows. Do pass on your wisdom unto those fickle minds of rookie show-offs and get them to follow all safety protocols.

BONUS TIP:

Use 6KIOM for your next riding gears and accessories purchase. As riders ourselves, we understand the suffering and needs of other motorcyclists. So, if you have any questions about your bike, riding safety, or the appropriate gears and accessories to get the most out of your bike, don’t hesitate to contact us.

20 Aug
Biker's Journal

Are Motorcycles Better to Ride in City Than Cars?

Are Motorcycles Better to Ride in City Than Cars?. It’s a debate as old as time. Or, at least, as old as the automotive industry. Still, the debate rages on.

Do you prefer the spaciousness of a car or the fresh air and freedom of a motorcycle?

Other questions include ones around fuel efficiency, resale value, parking, and traffic jams.

With so many things to consider, many people choose a car by default. However, as many riders know, motorcycles can be mighty rewarding.

No matter what you look for in a vehicle, there are plenty of worthwhile reasons to swap your car for a motorcycle.

Avoid Traffic Congestion

Everyone is in a mad rush in cities. Commuting to your office in a car is like creating a fuss for oneself daily. Getting to your destination faster is easier with motorcycles because it can squeeze through traffic and avoid jams, as gaining an advantage in traffic requires only a gap. It can filter through the traffic easily so you reach your destination much faster. 

A motor cycle can easily sift through traffic maneuvering your way to the front. 

Forget the Parking Woes 

Because motorcycles are smaller than cars, they can fit into tighter spaces, which can make finding a parking spot easier.

Not only can motorcyclists save time circling the block looking for a park, they generally pay less for parking than car owners.

No Queuing Up at Tolls

Not only that the motorcycles are exempt from paying toll tax in India, but they also gain the advantage of avoiding the long queues by passing through split lanes at the toll gate. The average time spent in a car on a toll gate in India is around 10-15 minutes during the peak hours, which ideally should take 10 seconds only. Commuting on a motor cycle saves a massive chunk of your time while crossing crowded toll plazas during peak hours. 

Affordability

Motorcycles are more fuel-efficient than cars. Many consume less than four litres of fuel per 100km — outperforming even the most fuel-efficient hybrid cars.

This can save a motorcyclist literally thousands of rupees a year in fuel costs.

Feel Closer to the Nature

Imagine this: sunshine, a cool breeze, an open road, and the scent of leather and the great outdoors.

Few things beat the fresh air and freedom you experience when riding a motorcycle. It can be equal parts exhilarating and liberating.

Studies have shown that riding a motorcycle can both reduce stress and promote relaxation.

A recent study found that riding a motorcycle had “a positive effect on stress levels, decreasing hormonal biomarkers by 28 percent compared to the other measured activities”.

Sounds like the ideal excuse to hit the road!

Fun

Motorcycles are fun. You’re roaring down the road, adrenaline pumping, off on an adventure.

In contrast, many cars are simply a way for their owners to get from point A to point B.

Health

Not only are motorcycles a whole lot of fun, they’re also good for your health.

A 70kg motorcycle rider will burn an average of 170 calories during a one-hour ride — roughly 40 calories more than the same person would burn by driving a car for one hour.

Plus, riding a motorcycle engages far more muscle groups than driving, giving you a full-body workout. While this admittedly isn’t enough to forego your regular exercise routine, it’s certainly a nice bonus!

Keeping Clean

When was the last time you cleaned your car (driving in the rain doesn’t count)?

If it’s been longer than you’d like to admit, don’t worry, you’re not alone.

The good news is that motorcycles are significantly easier to clean than cars, for the simple reason there’s less to clean.

This is particularly true for people who ride their motorcycles mainly on sealed roads (as opposed to off-road).

Plus, you don’t have to worry about decluttering the boot, tidying the glovebox, or trying to clean under seats.

Safety Concerns

Over time, cars have gained an advantage over motorcycles when it comes to safety concerns. But today, we have a plethora of safety gears for the biking community that offers utmost safety so that you do not have to compromise on your love for the two-wheeled engineering marvel. 

So grab your helmet and other safety gear to zoom through traffic. 😉