The kit list with Justin Hayzelden episode 2 | Dan Sutherland discusses his favourite kit for sportsbike riding

Published: 30 May 2024

Welcome to the kit list with MCN Products Editor, Justin Hayzelden. In each episode, Justin sits down for a chat about bike kit with a different member of the MCN team. That might be the stuff they use day-to-day, the latest new kit they can’t wait to test or even the best of the gear they’ve used in previous years.

This time, it’s the turn of News Editor, Dan Sutherland to discus his favourite kit for riding sportsbikes – something he really enjoys doing.

Watch the video above and find Dan’s kit list broken down below…

RST TracTech Evo 4 gloves

Price: £99.99

www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk

Dan has extensively used the RST TracTech Evo 4 gloves over multiple 24-hour endurance races and countless summer rides, accruing around 20,000 miles. Despite some wear on the fingertips and minor fraying, these gloves continue to provide exceptional comfort and resilience. The large cuffs effortlessly accommodate the sleeves of various racing suits, ensuring a secure fit, too.

Pros

Extremely durable with years of heavy use
Large cuffs easily fit over suit sleeves
Consistently comfortable in extensive racing

Cons

Tendency to stain hands black in wet conditions

Shoei X-SPR Pro helmet

Price: £699.99

www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk

This Shoei helmet, used by professionals in MotoGP and BSB, became a favourite for Dan, particularly due to its superb fit for his head shape. The helmet combines high performance on the circuit with day-to-day civility. Its transition visor is a game-changer for varying light conditions, reducing the need to carry extra visors.

Read our full Shoei X-SPR Pro review from Michael Neeves

Pros

Exceptional comfort for various head shapes
Transition visor adapts quickly to changes in light
Effective at reducing wind noise and turbulence

Cons

Significant investment due to high cost
White colour shows dirt and insects prominently

Weise Stratus waterproof over jacket

Price: £37.49 (was £49.99)

www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk

Picked up for a mere ten pounds, Dan's bargain bin Weise waterproof jacket has proven invaluable. It's been a staple in his gear, providing an extra layer over his riding jacket or a quick waterproof solution during unexpected showers, with over 100,000 miles of use.

Although it's impossible to find the exact model any more, the Weise Stratus is a similar jacket in the current range.

Pros

If it's half as waterproof as Dan's Weise jacket, it'll be worth it

Cons

Not the exact model Dan picked up

Kriega R30 rucksack

Price: £219

www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk

Dan likes the Kriega R30 for its durability and ergonomic design, essential for his daily commute and weekend adventures. Despite having to replace it once due to wear on a shoulder strap, the bag's comfortable fastening system and waterproof design have made it indispensable.

Pros

Proven waterproof capability and robust build
Ergonomic design eases weight on shoulders
Excellent customer service with warranty claims

Cons

Premium price point may be a barrier
Straps can feel overly bulky when not riding

Dainese Nexus 2 D-WP boots

Price: $369.00

Amazon

These boots have been a reliable year-round choice for Dan, offering both the sporty look he prefers and the practicality needed for commuting in all weather. The boots’ design allows them to be worn comfortably under textile gear, enhancing their utility.

Pros

Stylish, protective, and practical for daily wear
Remains waterproof in most conditions
Sleek enough to fit under various trouser styles

Cons

Costly initial investment
Begin to allow water ingress in extreme conditions

Gaerne GP1 Evo Race boots

Price: £363.41 (was £399.99)

www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk

Dan regards these as his top choice for track riding due to their comfort and the protection they offer. They are exceptionally light and well-ventilated, which is crucial for long sessions on the track. The innovative fastening system also ensures a perfect fit.

Pros

Excellent fit and lightweight for all-day comfort
Superior ventilation suitable for hot track days
Robust protection ideal for high-speed environments

Cons

Not intended for casual or off-bike use
Squeaking noises when walking

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Justin Hayzelden

By Justin Hayzelden

Products Editor, shed enthusiast and tournament winner.Justin has been a regular contributor to MCN since 2009, serving as a road tester, roving reporter, and feature writer. He has extensive experience testing the latest motorcycles and evaluating motorcycle gear under real-world conditions. A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, Justin began riding at 16 on a Suzuki TS50X and has since owned numerous bikes. His time as a London courier honed his skills on busy roads, and as an instructor, he has trained many novices. When not testing products, Justin is often found in his shed, maintaining, restoring, and rebuilding bikes and other mechanical items.

Dainese Nexus 2 D-WP boots

Dainese Nexus 2 D-WP boots

Gaerne GP1 Evo boots

Gaerne GP1 Evo boots

RST TracTech Evo 4 gloves

RST TracTech Evo 4 gloves

Shoei X-SPR Pro

Shoei X-SPR Pro