I fully agree that it is each to their own. What gets me is the ATGATT crowd, most will say along the lines of ''it isn't a matter of if, it's a matter of when you will fall off''
Well, I don't know about anyone else, but I don't ever go out on a ride with the mindset that I 'may' fall off. It's been 21 years of road riding thus far and I am fine. Not a scrape. I feel if you think this way, you need to get off your bike, because it isn't for you.
Besides, gear only stops abrasions etc. You can have all the gear on in the world, but an impact will soon flap that 'safety gear mindset' up.
I do admit though, I ride with most gear on most of the time. If I shoot down the shop or the likes, I'll squid it. I mostly wear gear on my way to work, early mornings, rural highway. Mainly to be not hit by a gazillion bugs if anything. And if I am going for a spirited twisties ride.
I respect others opinions and choices, but what I don't respect is when it is pushed down your throat.
On a little funny side note: My Dad is a rider safe trainer, and one time pulled into town. One of his students noticed him and walked over to him asking him about his shorts, tshirt and thongs attire.
