I'm looking for some feedback on electric vests. I looked at a couple but was hoping that the group may have some good recomendations and feedback. (Widder verses Gerbing's or others) Also what kind of hook-ups? - are thermostatic controls really needed? Mainly for my passenger - best to keep her warm! (esp. when I start dragging her along in March!)

Thanks in advance! Dave

I put the permanent mount variable Gerbing heat controllers on my bike for both driver and passenger and like them very much. The On/Off switch is too hot or too cold. It also detracts your attention from your driving having to turn them on and off all of the time.

The permanent mounts can be controlled with one finger versus 2 hands for the portable ones.

Gerbing's Vests/Jacket liners have 2 circuits so that you can have different temperatures for different parts of the body. This is a plus should you choose to use it.

I tried the Gerbing G3 gloves and like them. They have gel inserts and as a plus, remove some of the vibrations from the handlebars.

I rode in 38 degree weather yesterday and it was a bit chilly until I hooked up the jacket liner and gloves. It made a night and day difference in the ride quality. Your thoughts immediately change from "boy is it cold, when is the next stop" to "where are we going next" !!!

You will like the heated clothing.

One other thing, Gerbing's clothing has many sizing options, much more than the others (numerous chest/sleeve length combinations). You want the liners to fit snug so they don't bunch up. If they bunch up, you will get hot spots due to 3 layers of heating elements in the bunched locations.  The heated high collars are also nice.

Tim