Lap Aprons and cold weather riding...

pocphil · Post by **pocphil** » Fri Oct 19, 2007 6:29 pm

We've tried a number of the Lap Aprons available from Termoscud and others and have found the perfect one for our shop.

It's the Corazzo Lap Apron...with the handy external pockets and extensive use of 3M reflective material I think it's the best made at the best price and it won't scratch up the paint on your scooter. If you're a person that suffers from Chilly Leg Syndrome you NEED this Item. On a recent 40° rainy day my legs were warm and dry. I immediately forgot about how stupid I looked and am now a convert.

$90 if you mention the Modern Buddy forum.

I've tried this on my Buddy 125 and on my People 250S and Vespa GTS and it works great. Even without the supplied velcro pads attached to the scooter it still didn't blow up in the wind at up to 70 mph.

The other great item we're carrying are the Cortech Carbon Coldfront Gloves, these gloves are genius, they have a built in face-shield squeegee and they're gauntlet style to keep the wind from blowing up your sleeves. If you're a Non-leather kind of person we are carrying the Z1R winter gloves which are also gauntlet style and will keep you toasty down to sub-zero temperatures.

$49 if you mention the Modern Buddy Forum.

More than just spamming the board....this is stuff we've tried, tested and use ourselves. It's amazing how easy it is to spend big $$ on products that don't work, or are awkward to use. We'll continue to test new products and let you know what we think.

Phil Waters
Pride Of Cleveland Scooters
18636 Detroit Rd.
Lakewood, Ohio 44107
www.clevelandscooters.com

peabody99 · Post by **peabody99** » Sat Oct 20, 2007 12:26 am

ok Phil- I know you were not wearing that skirt through lakewood.

I gotta say though, its tempting

vitaminC · Post by **vitaminC** » Sat Oct 20, 2007 1:20 am

Add a helmet with a dark tinted visor, and you have the perfect androgynous scooterist.

cthoops · Post by **cthoops** » Sat Oct 20, 2007 8:06 am

I have to say, the picture made me smile!

But seriously, I bought one last weekend and it's really made a HUGE difference re: comfort in the cold. Of course two days after I bought it, the temps went up to the 70's here. If I had known it would be that easy to push off old-man winter, I would have bought my scooter and apron last year!

ryder1 · Post by **ryder1** » Sat Oct 20, 2007 6:49 pm

What is the apron like to wear on the scooter? I would think it would be restrictive?

Do they come in any other color but black?

pocphil · Post by **pocphil** » Sat Oct 20, 2007 7:54 pm

Doesn't get in the way at all, I can put my feet down quite easily and pop them back up under the "skirt" without any trouble at all.

I'm sold...the best thing it's done so far though is cause the temperature to climb back up 25° so it's staying under the seat until I need it.

Right now they're only available in Black, but i'm sure if there's enough demand Bradford will run them in other colors.

petunia · Post by **petunia** » Sat Oct 20, 2007 9:29 pm

I have a Corazzo lap apron. Yea, sometimes I feel a little goofy but it keeps me warm and dry with out the hassle of of riding pants. Also, when I park my scooter away from home and it's rainy, I loop the belt under the seat with the lap apron covering the seat to keep it dry. The added benefit is the apron then drapes over my helmet to keep it dry as well.

ryder1 · Post by **ryder1** » Sun Oct 21, 2007 11:29 pm

What keeps the sides of the lap apron down close to the Buddy so it isn't flapping in the wind?

petunia · Post by **petunia** » Mon Oct 22, 2007 1:49 pm

I think because of the cut, length, and weight of the apron the sides don't flap up. The wind just doesn't get under the apron. The apron did kinda "rippled" once while I was riding in some pretty strong gusty winds (that was exciting!) but the sides still stayed down.

corazzo chad · Post by **corazzo chad** » Mon Oct 22, 2007 5:18 pm

Hey Ryder 1

thanks again for the great feed back, support and photos.

Thanks Phil for the great photos and insight, You guys are awesome. sorry about the Indians.

the Lap Apron has some velcro patches on the sides if you did want to be able to secure it to the sides of the scoot. This will keep it down and not flappy in higher speeds and wind. These stick to the scooter, and not recomended for those who do not want to attach anything to their scoot, the velcro adhesive is rather strong.

I don't ride much faser than 35-45 around town and it works great with out the velcro stickies.

I too was hesitant due to the dorky look factor, but after using one last winter I was sold. I know I work here but, I don't like selling anything I wouldn't use or believe in.

C

beelzebubbles · Post by **beelzebubbles** » Mon Oct 22, 2007 7:14 pm

petunia wrote:I have a Corazzo lap apron. Yea, sometimes I feel a little goofy but it keeps me warm and dry with out the hassle of of riding pants.

I live in San Francisco, so 40 degrees or so is about as cold as it gets. But I always wondered about those aprons, since my padded riding pants usually keep plenty warm and dry. (Finding good warm gloves took longer.) And protected, too. I don't think these aprons will help you in a fall.

corazzo chad · Post by **corazzo chad** » Mon Oct 22, 2007 9:21 pm

We don't advertise that the lap aprons will protect you in a fall. We just say they will help with the cold and wet conditions when riding.

instead of riding pants i believe she meant rain pants.

We urge all riders to wear protective riding gear everytime they mount their Scoot or Moped or motorcycle. Whatever you ride, just ride safe

C

scooterstud · Post by **scooterstud** » Tue Oct 23, 2007 7:07 pm

I've been thinking about cold weather riding now that the fall is arriving. I am considering a lap apron and also a windshield. Could those who have used both let me know which they feel is more essential?

I've heard good things about both, and I am sure the ideal winter scooter setup is to have both, but if you were to buy only one, or could only afford one which would it be?

Thanks!

sparty · Post by **sparty** » Tue Oct 23, 2007 10:45 pm

I would pick windshield over apron. There are many benefits with windshield: speed, upper body shielding, appearance(+). There are limited benefits with apron: lower body shielding, appearance(-).

scooterstud · Post by **scooterstud** » Wed Oct 24, 2007 3:15 am

sparty wrote:I would pick windshield over apron. There are many benefits with windshield: speed, upper body shielding, appearance(+). There are limited benefits with apron: lower body shielding, appearance(-).

That's kind of what I was thinking, although I have to say my legs do get cold when it's chilly outside and I get going. Does the windshield help your legs by any chance? I know it probably doesn't, but perhaps in some roundabout aerodynamic sort of way it cuts down on wind for your entire body? Wishful thinking I am sure. lol

gt1000 · Post by **gt1000** » Wed Oct 24, 2007 3:50 am

My take on cold weather riding is to limit exposure as much as possible. While I don't use a windscreen and, in fact, really dislike them, they can help limit exposure to your upper body and head. In really cold weather (well below freezing) the challenge is keeping the extremities warm.

Great boots and gloves are a given. Less obvious, but really important on a motorcycle or a scoot like the Buddy, is keeping your legs warm. The Buddy's body doesn't offer much protection. I wear insulated, waterproof riding pants and they make a huge difference. I would think the apron would have the same effect.

The single most important factor for me in subfreezing temperatures is to limit the time I'm riding. My commute is about 15 minutes and once the temps dip into the teens, it doesn't matter what I'm wearing. After 15 minutes, I'm cold.

scooterstud · Post by **scooterstud** » Wed Oct 24, 2007 4:02 am

gt1000 wrote:My take on cold weather riding is to limit exposure as much as possible. While I don't use a windscreen and, in fact, really dislike them, they can help limit exposure to your upper body and head. In really cold weather (well below freezing) the challenge is keeping the extremities warm.

What is it that you don't like about windscreens? I've read different things, some people like the small ones, others call it a waste of money, some people love them, others say it takes getting used to, some people swear by them. Its tough to plunk down $100.00 for something when opinions vary so much. The funny thing is while it is the goofier item and the less common of the two, there seems to be more consensus on the lap aprons or thermoscuds, everyone who uses one loves it.

gt1000 wrote:Great boots and gloves are a given. Less obvious, but really important on a motorcycle or a scoot like the Buddy, is keeping your legs warm. The Buddy's body doesn't offer much protection. I wear insulated, waterproof riding pants and they make a huge difference. I would think the apron would have the same effect.

Well I will be commuting to work at a restaurant, and when I get there I pretty much need to get to work right away. I don't really want to spend 10 minutes taking off layers etc, that is why I though the lap apron would be a good choice. I live in Georgia though, so it could be that an apron would not be necessary. However, we have not even gotten close to sub zero yet and on some evenings when riding home my legs are already cold!

gt1000 wrote:The single most important factor for me in subfreezing temperatures is to limit the time I'm riding. My commute is about 15 minutes and once the temps dip into the teens, it doesn't matter what I'm wearing. After 15 minutes, I'm cold.

Well my ride is about the same length. Perhaps I will be able to just grin and bear it? I guess time will tell. I'd like to know what works and what my options are in advance so when I am on the bike one night, freezing my tail off, I will know what I have to order to remedy the situation.

gt1000 · Post by **gt1000** » Wed Oct 24, 2007 2:58 pm

Regarding windscreens, mine opinion is definitely in the minority. I don't like the way they look and I don't like the "feel" of most of them. You should try to find a scoot with a screen installed that you can test ride. Then you will know how you feel about them.

I keep a couple pairs of shoes in my office. When I arrive in the morning, it probably takes me 5 minutes to "de-gear" and get my normal shoes on. If you don't have time for that, then some sort of sturdy shoe and a lap apron might be your best bet.

If the temp is over 40 I can grin and bear it for 15 or 20 minutes. It's those days in the 30's and below that can be tough. And even though you may think you're grinning and bearing it okay, if you're really uncomfortable, chances are you're not riding up to your actual capabilities. A comfortable rider is a better rider.

scooterstud · Post by **scooterstud** » Wed Oct 24, 2007 5:48 pm

gt1000 wrote:Regarding windscreens, mine opinion is definitely in the minority. I don't like the way they look and I don't like the "feel" of most of them. You should try to find a scoot with a screen installed that you can test ride. Then you will know how you feel about them.

Sure wish this were an option.

gt1000 wrote:I keep a couple pairs of shoes in my office. When I arrive in the morning, it probably takes me 5 minutes to "de-gear" and get my normal shoes on. If you don't have time for that, then some sort of sturdy shoe and a lap apron might be your best bet.

Yeah, sounds like it. I get to work and pretty much get right to work setting up my station. I like taking off a jacket and getting down to business. Shoes are not a problem, I wear the same boots I ride in. Jacket, helmet, no problem. Legs, that could be tricky. I'll just see how I feel as the temp drops. If I get too uncomfortable I'll spring for an apron. It will be mostly at night that I will need it, riding home around midnight each night.

gt1000 wrote:If the temp is over 40 I can grin and bear it for 15 or 20 minutes. It's those days in the 30's and below that can be tough. And even though you may think you're grinning and bearing it okay, if you're really uncomfortable, chances are you're not riding up to your actual capabilities. A comfortable rider is a better rider.

Well said.

golfinguy · Post by **golfinguy** » Wed Oct 24, 2007 7:35 pm

Hey scooterstud, what area of Atlanta are you in? I see an Italia fairly frequently in midtown around Grady high, etc.

EBee · Post by **EBee** » Wed Oct 24, 2007 7:56 pm

I'm intrigued by the apron because my legs are my weak spot during cold weather riding. My husband is totally opposed to me having one because he thinks they could be dangerous, esp if I get my legs tangled. What are my opposing arguments? This could become my early Christmas present if I can convince him

PS: I already have a shorty screen and I LOOOOVE it.

scooterstud · Post by **scooterstud** » Thu Oct 25, 2007 12:00 am

golfinguy wrote:Hey scooterstud, what area of Atlanta are you in? I see an Italia fairly frequently in midtown around Grady high, etc.

I live in Decatur but commute to the Innman Park/Reynoldstown/Cabbagetown area to go to work almost daily. I haven't spent too much time in midtown, so that's probably not me you are seeing.

What color is your bud 50 and where do you do most of your riding? I'll keep an eye out for you.

scooterstud · Post by **scooterstud** » Thu Oct 25, 2007 12:01 am

EBee wrote:I'm intrigued by the apron because my legs are my weak spot during cold weather riding. My husband is totally opposed to me having one because he thinks they could be dangerous, esp if I get my legs tangled. What are my opposing arguments? This could become my early Christmas present if I can convince him

PS: I already have a shorty screen and I LOOOOVE it.

I'm no expert, but my guess would be that it might provide EXTRA protection should you take a spill. Its just one more thing between your legs and the road no?

golfinguy · Post by **golfinguy** » Thu Oct 25, 2007 1:57 pm

scooterstud wrote:
golfinguy wrote:Hey scooterstud, what area of Atlanta are you in? I see an Italia fairly frequently in midtown around Grady high, etc.
I live in Decatur but commute to the Innman Park/Reynoldstown/Cabbagetown area to go to work almost daily. I haven't spent too much time in midtown, so that's probably not me you are seeing.

What color is your bud 50 and where do you do most of your riding? I'll keep an eye out for you.

golfingirl and I are in Midtown, we ride mostly midtown/inman Park/Cabbagetown/VaHi/Grant Park areas. I have a silver and black, and she has an orange 125 with a prima bag on the back.

Cheers,
Dale.

scooterstud · Post by **scooterstud** » Thu Oct 25, 2007 2:05 pm

golfinguy wrote:
scooterstud wrote:
golfinguy wrote:Hey scooterstud, what area of Atlanta are you in? I see an Italia fairly frequently in midtown around Grady high, etc.
I live in Decatur but commute to the Innman Park/Reynoldstown/Cabbagetown area to go to work almost daily. I haven't spent too much time in midtown, so that's probably not me you are seeing.

What color is your bud 50 and where do you do most of your riding? I'll keep an eye out for you.
golfingirl and I are in Midtown, we ride mostly midtown/inman Park/Cabbagetown/VaHi/Grant Park areas. I have a silver and black, and she has an orange 125 with a prima bag on the back.

Cheers,
Dale.

I'll keep an eye out for you both. I have seen an orange buddy on McClendon a few times, not sure about the prima, but I've only ever seen a black buddy at the dealer. Speaking of which, did you guys also get your bikes at Twist and Scoot?

EBee · Post by **EBee** » Mon Oct 29, 2007 5:55 pm

pocphil wrote:.

$90 if you mention the Modern Buddy forum.

So I can just call you and order one up?

pocphil · Post by **pocphil** » Mon Oct 29, 2007 8:16 pm

Yep, that's how it works.

Or just email me your info and we'll call you to save on the $ call.

thepezident · Post by **thepezident** » Wed Oct 31, 2007 4:06 pm

I have 15+ years of snowmobile riding under me belt. I firmly believe that conditioning the body to colder weather has a large influence on what you can handle. For instance...call me crazy...but when the weather drops to 40-50, I'll ride to work with the windows open. (Before I got the scoot)

I found that later in the winter, when temps drop to 30 or below, I wouldn't be as cold as my co-workers or friends.

No pain no gain

paige · Post by **paige** » Wed Oct 31, 2007 7:10 pm

Bealzebubbles is a boy.

He is talking about wearing armored motorcycle riding pants, not rain gear. I have a scooterskirt http://www.scooterskirts.com/ that I love in custom orange that goes great with my Buddy. It is more like an apron than a skirt. It is a boxy shape (like it would stand up by itself if you were not in it) that gives good protection from the wind and rain. They can flap a little around the edges at speed, but it is like gills on a fish, not wings on a bird.

Dibber · Post by **Dibber** » Wed Oct 31, 2007 8:35 pm

Hay Scooterstud. I have the Cuppini Short windshield and it does protect your chest and neck area, but with my height, Near 6', I get a blast of air in the face. My helmet and face mask helps there. But I'm willing to sell it for $75.00 free shipping and it is only 1 month old. I may look for a taller one next year. Let me know if you are interested? I paid $95+ including shipping from Scooterworks.com.

EBee · Post by **EBee** » Thu Nov 01, 2007 1:51 pm

paige wrote:I have a scooterskirt http://www.scooterskirts.com/ that I love in custom orange that goes great with my Buddy.

I went to the web site and didn't see an orange one...I have an orange Buddy and would like to get either orange or brown but they don't seem to offer either. How did you get orange?

jaded · Post by **jaded** » Thu Nov 01, 2007 5:14 pm

EBee wrote:
paige wrote:I have a scooterskirt http://www.scooterskirts.com/ that I love in custom orange that goes great with my Buddy.
I went to the web site and didn't see an orange one...I have an orange Buddy and would like to get either orange or brown but they don't seem to offer either. How did you get orange?

It's all in who you know.

paige · Post by **paige** » Thu Nov 01, 2007 6:21 pm

The orange was a one-off from a fabric sample. Maybe if enough people request a color he can try to make it, but the orange is no longer available. Pink is really popular and hecka visible.

EBee · Post by **EBee** » Thu Nov 01, 2007 7:44 pm

Ok fine just FLAUNT your fancy orange one then!

Looks like I'll just call Phil AND get those cool tire stems TOO. So THERE.

Modern Buddy

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Lap Aprons and cold weather riding...

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