gear, bike, riding techniques for a noob

[Sijray21]

As far as jackets go - what are you opinons on the different "types" leather, perforated leather, textile, mesh. Right now I only really plan on riding when its nice out (read: not raining, no winter), so that has me leaning more towards a textile or perf. leather.

as far as jackets go i've worn them all and i own all three types...yeah - i know (overkill)

i really enjoy my mesh jacket on hot days, but nothing will ever feel as comfortable and secure as a leather jacket. The leather jacket i have now is a perforated leather - great for breathability when riding and not too bad even with the liner zipped in during moderately warm days. I also own a textile jacket b/c it was super cheap on newenough ($59 shipped) and i wanted to try that out as well. I find it great for quick trips around and i got it in a non-neutral color to stand out a bit more on the roads. I find the textile better for shelter against the wind over the mesh and about the same with the leather. Mesh and textiles are cheaper, but i really recommend getting a decent leather jacket. Both of my leather jackets have been Teknic since they're pretty inexpensive and the quality of leather isn't bad (although i've never tested them). Also, test the different brands to make sure sleeves are long enough. I've noticed that Joe Rocket leathers are tighter in the arms and waist, but have longer arm length when compared to alpinestars and teknic. teknics tend to have slightly shorter arm lengths for leather jackets, but appear to be standard with textile jackets.

if you wanted to try on my jackets sometime i have the following:
Teknic Freestyle Textile size 44
Teknic Chicane Leather size 46 (purposely loose to allow room for my backprotector)
Joe Rocket Phoenix 5.0 Mesh size M

ideally i wanted the Rev'It Replica leather jacket (great fit), but i couldn't throw down the $$$.

a lot of new riders forget about good gloves and boots too, don't forget to get a good pair for each.

Try every helmet on... even if it isn't as flashy and sweet as you may want. I found my best fit was a Scorpion. They look like poo, are cheap, and don't have many features.

+1

different head shapes between brands and models within the same brand