In this podcast episode, we dive deep into motorcycle heated riding gear. Riding in cold weather can be uncomfortable without proper gear. Over the years, I’ve tested a range of heated gear—from budget to premium—and have real-world experience as a police motor officer and personal rider. In this guide, I’ll walk you through heated gear options, share insights, and explain why Gerbing gear stands above the rest.
1. The Problem with Cheap Heated Gear
White-Labeled & Generic Gear
- Many low-cost heated gear products, like Mobile Warming, are white-labeled items from platforms like Alibaba.
- These products appear across Amazon and eBay, rebranded and sold under different names.
- The Issue: Cheap materials lead to quick failure, poor battery performance, and safety concerns.
Flimsy Batteries & Chargers
- Cheap heated gear often uses low-quality lithium-ion batteries.
- Problems include:
- Fire hazard concerns.
- Poor charge indication (no light or status).
- Chargers that break quickly.
- Batteries don't last and will have to be replaced often.
Tip: Avoid relying on inexpensive gear for long-term riding needs.
2. Why Gerbing Sets the Standard
Unmatched Quality & Reliability
Gerbing heated gear is tested, durable, and built for serious riders. Their batteries, chargers, and construction far outperform budget brands.
Gerbing 7V Soft Shell Vest
- Versatile & Stylish: Wearable on motorcycles, outdoor activities, or day-to-day tasks.
- Battery Performance:
- High: ~2 hours
- Medium: ~3-4 hours
- Design Note: Should fit snugly to maximize heat transfer.
3. My Favorite Heated Gear: Gerbing Heated Shirt
The Gerbing heated shirt is my go-to for daily police motor duty and personal riding.
- Why I Love It:
- Thin material fits under any jacket.
- Versatile enough for any outdoor tasks.
- Battery Life: Up to 5 hours on low.
- Functionality: Easy controls with visible power indicators.
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4. Battery-Powered vs. Plug-In Gear
Battery-Powered Gear
- Pros: Portable and versatile for short trips or off-bike use.
- Cons: Limited runtime; requires carrying extra batteries.
Plug-In Gear (Gerbing Heated Jacket Liner)
- Why Plug-In?
- Unlimited runtime while riding.
- Always in my saddlebag, ready for unexpected cold weather.
- Setup: Plugs into your bike’s power system, offering a reliable heat source for long rides.
Pro Tip: Use both for maximum versatility!
5. Heated Gloves, Pants, and Socks: Do You Need Them?
- For riders or bikes without fairings or heated seats, heated gloves, pants, and socks are invaluable.
- My Setup:
This combination is sufficient for even freezing temperatures.
6. First Gear vs. Gerbing: A Comparison
Key Differences
| Feature | Gerbing | First Gear |
|---|---|---|
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