Question:
I just got my first bike here (Katana600) and am now in the process of
determining what would be the best bang for the buck as far as gear goes.
I've picked up a decent helmet and gloves, but I am a bit stumped on the
boot. The guy at the motorcycle shop says save your money unless you are
going to be doing long tours (not on this bike) and just buy a decent
leather shoe/boot that covers the ankle. My buddy who has been riding a
fair amount of time suggests a boot solely (no pun intended) for designed
for cycles as the gear shift will wear through anything else very fast.
Answer:
I think that a High Quality Leather Hiking Boot that covers your ankle will
do a better job than most of the so called "riding" boots I have seen. I
ride with the hiking boots and have for some time without any wear near
where the shifter touches the boot. I think that the riding boots that have
shin guards have better protection and go higher up your leg than just
Hikers, but I have not switched to those yet. So if you are just thinking
of getting a riding boot that covers the ankle and goes no higher, I would
suggest a good leather hiker. However if you want more protection,
definitely get the high riding boot with shin protection.
Hiking boots work just fine most of the time, but if you are planning on
riding all year round they do let in the elements more than a high
riding boot. Ankle stiffness and support is the key - can you kick down
on the asphalt at speed without causing serious injury? Watch out for
resole-ing costs, most bike boots are cheaper to resole than
equivalently priced hiking boots, and the sole rubber compound seems to
take road wear better.
Past experience has taught me that most leather trousers are cut too
short to wear with anything but high bike boots (exception being a
wonderful pair of flared Lewis leathers that prompted me to wear out
cuban heels on cowboy boots at an alarming rate) so if you are planning
on getting some leather breeks before winter, you might want to check
your boots will fit. And if/when you end up with a bike on top of you,
big high thick boots stop the exhaust burns and crush injurys better
than anything else.
I use black work boots made of fabric and leather, bought at Wal-Mart for $40.
They seem sturdier than the $80 boots I tried on at a bike shop.
