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Even in my time I've stumbled upon countless copies of say, the Bronx or the Cyclone, Lightning, etc. and some were really, really good, with even the correct hardware. LL used to be huge in Europe. I mean, really huge. Back in the seventies here in the Eastern Europe, if you wanted to be a part of the motorcycle scene, you needed two things - a motorcycle of any kind and a Lewis Leathers jacket (but, Dainese and Alpinestars would do, too). But, neither were as simple to come by as they are today so there was a HUGE market that existed for the LL copies, most of which still float around. German ones are the best. In any case, I think that's why LL decided to keep the patch on their jackets. Some of these guys would make it to race internationally and I know people who got their first proper LL only when they raced in the UK.
I don't mind the patch on my jacket at all. I think what most people don't understand is that LL is - or at least used to be - primarily a motorcycle gear maker, and it's a tradition for all MC clothing brands to advertise their logos on the jackets, racing suits, boots, etc. I see it being no different than wearing Alpinestars. Which is why it saddens me they're steering straight and fast for the exclusively fashion market today.
I don't mind the patch on my jacket at all. I think what most people don't understand is that LL is - or at least used to be - primarily a motorcycle gear maker, and it's a tradition for all MC clothing brands to advertise their logos on the jackets, racing suits, boots, etc. I see it being no different than wearing Alpinestars. Which is why it saddens me they're steering straight and fast for the exclusively fashion market today.