New to the forum and new to the bike.

I'm just wondering if I really need to spring for the 250$ helmets from scorpion or if the Hawk helmets on Amazon are okay too. Same with jackets and gloves.

Jacket. Do I need to get leather? Do I need armor? Any jackets that stay pretty cool?

Gloves. Leather, synthetic?

I am a new rider. I live in Orange County and this is mostly a commuter bike. I try to stay off the freeways.

Talk to me, guys.

Oh yeah, 1984 Honda VT500 Ascot. I'll try to have photos up soon enough.

joey

I wear a scorpion so I am a little biased, but imo it is worth it, the scorpions are DOT and SNELL approved, SNELL is the highest safety rating a motorcycle helmet can have. Just remember, your life is in your hands when you are trying to save a few bucks. You will be thanking yourself for spending that extra 100 bucks when you need the helmet. As for the gear I ride with armored gloves, and mesh in the summer, Leather is the best but in 100 degree heat I can't justify that on back roads. Mesh doesn't offer as much protection but it does help you stay cool, leather protects better