I ride all year round, in all weathers save for (heavy) snow. Kit is always the same: Hein Gerrick Goretex leathers (excellent value compared to Rukka Merlin, but still quite dear), Alpinestars SMX-R Goretex boots, cotton/fleece necktube, Alpinestars 365 goretex gloves or rabbit-fur lined goretex leather gloves from a few years back (polars don't work as the goretex membrane is loose rather than bonded so your hand moves and the throttle doesn't!). When it's really cold I add a north face duck-down gilet underneath. The leathers are transformational to your riding. Always a good temperature, they breathe in warmer times, have liners for colder times and are totally windproof and sealed in a way that textiles never are. I would never go back now..... four years in and they are in perfect nick and they are worn 3 days a week minimum. Am always perfectly warm and dry. Only problem is tips of fingers in the wind when it's really cold, but sticking your hands in the engine/exhaust when you get to the lights defrosts them no problem! I went through a lot of kit to find a good setup. I have a Rukka goretex fabric jacket (in a UK 38/EU 48) that I no longer use if anyone wants it? I will remember to stick it on eBay one day soon.
My office is 5mins from where I live. I go home for lunch too. I cant commute, its just too much of a pain. I could work in the city and make much more money but I am home by 5:45pm. More like 7.30 if i worked up town. Besides all my accidents were generally commuting. I just got fed up with it. Good luck to those still doing it.
