[adouglas]

Fair enough. I freely admit I've adjusted my expectations and usage to accommodate my choices. I don't use the bike all the time. I commute on it when convenient to do so, and I use it for recreation. I don't use it to run errands. It's not a hardcore lifestyle choice for me.

Protection/abrasion resistance is not the only factor at play here. You say that you "need something that looks normal," which I interpret as placing a significant priority on appearance -- higher on the scale than the qualities that leathers provide. That's your choice. There's also cost, comfort, etc. etc. It's a compromise with many tradeoffs... and it's a choice we all make. Your answer is your own.

If you do go down, you live with the consequences of the choices you make. Me, I'll trade looks for protection every time because the consequences aren't worth the risk IMHO. But that's just me.