Q I want to try a budget textile jacket for the first time
After 55 years wearing leathers, I want to try textile kit. I’ve been looking at budget items for starters to see how I get on. I like the RST Alpha 4 jacket but notice the thermal lining is fixed. Do you think this will be a problem in summer? Tim Drake, email
A Answered by Keith Roissetter, Infinity Motorcycles
Definitely choose something with a removable thermal liner and make sure you have a bit of room underneath for baselayers. Adjustable straps or poppers on the arms and waist will let you keep it all tight when you’re down to a summer T-shirt. I’d look at mid-range rather than bargain gear as the membranes tend to be a lot more breathable, and they have better temperature-regulating zips built in. If you want to stay at the budget end then the Buffalo Hurricane, Horizon and Samurai 2 are good value. But have a look at the Frank Thomas Porto, the Spada Dyno II and the RST Tourmaster II too.