Scooter News A Corazzo Winter This year I've tackled winter in a different way. I actually thought about it!
Allen Drysdale 
Winter can be such a chore, and this can be evidenced by my garage being full of failed attempts to keep warm and dry. Now after years of trying to find the right combination each winter, this year I think I've come as close to perfection as I possibly can (without spending thousands).
After speaking to my good friends at Corazzo, I picked myself up a combination of two things. A Corazzo Underhoody that complements a new Tempeste winter riding jacket.
The Underhoody has been my revelation item, a garment that I've found to be one of the most versatile pieces of clothing I've ever purchased. So snug, I've even slept in it, hows that for versatile. Retails for only $99....
The Underhoody is warm and fuzzy on the inside. Its made from 20% Lycra so its nice and stretchy, it hasn't gone out of shape in the wash. It's a simple garment that looks stylish enough, even if your somewhere where you need to lose the jacket. But the best is yet to come....
Big points go to the inbuilt hood, this results in two things. It stops wind from swirling around your neck area, acting like a neck sock. It doubles as a balaclava so it can be pulled up over your chin, up over your scone, before sliding the helmet on. Makes a massive difference to rider comfort in cold conditions.
The sleeves have sown areas which slide over your thumbs. This ensures two things. Your sleeves stay in place when you pull the jacket on, they don't climb back up your arm. Next it stops all the breeze travelling up your arms whilst riding. A big bonus in winter.....
This one garment has helped change my opinion of winter riding. Unlike Scooterman, lets just say that I'm a little fragile when it comes to riding in wet and cold conditions.
I've combined the Underhoody this year with Corazzo's Tempeste (Retail $339). A jacket I wore on our recent winter challenge ride. At first sight I thought the Tempeste was just another jacket, though on reflection I've packed everything else away this winter. Which is strange, normally I choose different jackets for different riding conditions, the Tempeste has become a multi-tasker.
Its been fabulous in the wet, a big thanks to the patented Stormshield feature. No water leaks to date. The material used is waterproof and abrasive resistant, the later being important if you happen to slide anywhere. The Tempeste has a zip out vest, with a fleecy liner, this feels nice even when wearing a t-shirt. I'm sure it helps with warmth also.
A big plus for safety is the all important armour that's integrated. Shoulders, elbows and back are all protected thanks to the patented Knox armour system. Other safety features include a heap of sown in reflective piping front and back. A big plus for night riding.
Like I said, the Tempeste has found itself replacing the two or three jackets I normally rotate between. I like the cut of this jacket and I've even found myself turning up to a few meetings wearing it.
The key for me this winter has been using these two garments combined. They've been designed to work together as a team, keeping you warm and dry at the same time. For years I've been trying to find a solid combination and for me this is it.
So how is this winter different from the past? Well, I actually thought about a total solution before the onslaught. I get annoyed if I'm cold whilst riding, it really zaps my concentration. The combination of both the Underhoody and Tempeste have solved my dilemma. Additionally under the seat I carry an old extra neck sock and a two piece Corazzo wet weather set for back-up. For once I feel like I have a complete solution regardless of the weather.
As we see thousands of Jacket alternatives on the market, one thing stands out for me. The Corazzo product is a natural fit for the scooter rider. Its been designed by people who ride and the product seems to have that added purpose. Which I can honestly testify is working for me this winter.
Not sure if I'm still as committed as my trusty sidekick Scooterman, he'd ride underwater if he had too.
A big lesson for everyone this winter regardless of brand. Get yourself a warm undergarment, one that integrates a hood. Find the right jacket, one with good inbuilt protection and one that has the right kind of attributes for riding in wet and cold conditions. And last of all, have a spare set of roll up "wet weathers" under the seat. A plastic pair of pants and over-jacket will complete the picture.
For more info on Corazzo see www.corazzo.net.au
published 22/07/2011 |