Questions on Vanson, etc jackets to those who are in the know. - Ducati.ms

nyandy · Nov 8th, 2011, 3:16 pm

Sorry for the off topic question, but I was wondering if any of you could offer some insight. I've been riding for 16 years (HDs) and had just used plain leather jackets to do the job. I've always said I'd get a Vanson, but now that I've been looking and riding a more sport oriented bike, been checking out other brands of stuff. Admittedly, I like classic and plain jackets. The one I'm leaning towards the one pictured: Vanson's Sport Rider Mark 2. Like that you can zip pants into it, it's got some armor and still is rather basic. Anyone own or used the jacket? Would like something I could wear casually, be able to zip a liner out of and still have decent protection. Dainese line confuses me, but I've heard good things. I've seen Alpinestars stuff that has either been nice or total turds.

Any info based on experience is appreciated... I'm sure I'm going to get flamed... so thanks in advance.

**Chuckracer** · Nov 8th, 2011, 4:22 pm

I have a 15 year old Sportrider jacket exactly like that. I've crashed in it once and it took about 5 years to truly break in (one very long day in the pouring rain seemed to do it), and it fits me like a second skin now. A jacket like that is a lifetime investment.

I rarely wear it any more (I'm usually in Aerostich gear), but I won't ever part with it. I too wanted a Vanson for the longest time...not sure what took me so long.

Go for it!

SS904 · Nov 8th, 2011, 4:24 pm

Sorry... Don’t post in this section, but I saw "Vanson" on the front page and decided to have a peak! I own 2 Sport Rider Vansons. One a MK1 Cobra and the other is a newer Pro-perf. The difference between the various models in the Sport Rider line is basically how much perforated leather there is from what I can see. The cobra has a perforated front with zip-up curtains inside to seal off the vents as you like, the pro perf has perforated leather everywhere and is a nice summer jacket. The one you have pictured is solid leather everywhere and would be brutal in anything about 60 degrees. They are very solid, purpose built riding gear. I also prefer the plain look and these are clean classic black leather jackets that do what they are supposed to do very well. They fit tight and have a high waist line. They do not feel right zipped up unless you're in the riding position. In other words, probably not so good for casual wear, although walking around off the bike with it unzipped is doable. They are made to function on the bike. The high waist line keeps the front from bunching up like most jackets will do when you’re in the crouch, and the tight fit keeps things where they should be kept in case you fall off...

I wear a 42 in most garments, my chest measures 43". I'm 5' 9"(ish) and about 185(ish) normal to stocky build. The off-the-rack Vanson size 44 fits me like it was custom made. Love them, but the fit does not suit everyone. See if you can try some on at a shop. The leather is stiff to start, but breaks in very well.

My .000000002 cents.

r60slash5 · Nov 8th, 2011, 4:26 pm

I think Vanson is one of the best values on the market for leathers. Real American sizing no guess work. Just avoid an EMT's sissors, and you could be handing them down to the next generation. It's going to be pretty nice on Saturday take a ride to the factory, they have a great discount rack. Your only 200 miles away 8 hour round trip with 2 hours at the factory. It's not a casual wear jacket though.

Ted

Rob H · Nov 8th, 2011, 5:47 pm

I don't have any personal experience to add here, other than the few I've seen (and drooled over) at a local shop seem to be made to the highest of standards. I will own one as soon as I can...

Spitfire · Nov 9th, 2011, 3:41 pm

It's amazing. I have a Cobra Mk2.
But it's too big for me now, since I've lost weight.
It's an off-the-rack 44, with full armor and a back protector.
Very well made, takes a while to break in, very THICK cowhide.
It's not for walking around town AT ALL, purely made to be on the bike, but I love mine.

I might ride up to Vanson to see what they can do to tailor mine a bit more, but there might be too much work to do. Might have to get another new one.

Consider getting one that is custom cut for your shape. I hear it's well done.

I dunno if you're in NYC, but I've got it in Brooklyn, and if you're a 44 and interested in buying mine for cheaper than new, PM me.

DuckMan · Nov 9th, 2011, 4:08 pm

I have a Mark 2 Hurricane and pretty much agree with what all the other owners have said. Especially the part about break in. I've only had my for two seasons now and it's still stiff as shoe leather. But comfortable. I tried to cheat and beat it into submission by running it through the drier with a pair of tennis shoes for 24 hours but it didn't even faze it.

Spitfire · Nov 9th, 2011, 4:34 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by DuckMan

I have a Mark 2 Hurricane and pretty much agree with what all the other owners have said. Especially the part about break in. I've only had my for two seasons now and it's still stiff as shoe leather. But comfortable. I tried to cheat and beat it into submission by running it through the drier with a pair of tennis shoes for 24 hours but it didn't even faze it.

You gotta get that sucker soaked to the bone. That's the drag. It seems that everytime I get stuck in the rain it comes out even softer. Shame I can't keep wearing it, it's just way too big. Maybe Vanson can redo it? .

nyandy · Nov 10th, 2011, 1:23 pm

Thank you all for the insight! Much appreciated!

edvin70 · Nov 10th, 2011, 1:43 pm

Vanson is high quality stuff - they have factory open houses a couples times a year I believe with some specials on the off the rack stuff.