Luke,
You seem a well meaning, sincere sort of a guy, and I can see where you and paramedic types are coming from in your point of view..... an ambulance at the bottom of a cliff.
I am certainly not suggesting that people who make choices different from what I make are being impractical or nonsensical. They are making choices based on their situation and circumstances and perceived level of risk. What I do suggest is that the All The Gear All The Time mantra is a bit preachy, and not always practical, so it seems like nonsense to me.
Above we have a guy who has chosen gear appropriate for his racing ambitions, however it is not suited to day to day riding. None the less the attitude of feeling really safe when wearing all the gear, and probably not going to crash because of good tyres are a bit worrying. It is a bullet proof attitude that can develop when people think gear, and technology (tyres, ABS and the like) are going to keep them safe.
I don't say that an accident won't happen to me. I am well aware that accidents can happen to anyone, but I don't think it is helpful to regard motorcycles as statistics in the making. Some riders are indeed accidents waiting to happen, and have more than their share. Others are low risk in their attitude and behaviour and seldom, if ever show up in the statistics despite coving many miles year after year.
For some of us our motorcycles are our only means of transport, and we have to be a bit practical our choice of attire, balancing risk with convenience. For others there is a Chevvy Suburban in the garage for those times when it is not convenient or appropriate to tog up in all the gear.
I can understand people being proud of their bikes, and their gear. For me my bike is not a hobby; it is my transport. My attitude to it, and how I dress when I ride is practical and appropriate to my level of risk. I remain aware of the vulnerability of motorcycling, and ride with that in mind.
On my choice of open face helmet, for instance; I am well aware that a full face helmet provides more protection in an accident. However one of the reasons I like to ride is that I enjoy the sensations and smells of the open air. Going fast is not my buzz. When I have used a full face helmet I missed the open air, and felt I might as well be in a car. The open air is gone, and speed is the only thrill that is left.
Wearing an open face helmet life gets pretty uncomfortable above about 90 km/hr for any length of time....... I ride slower with an open face helmet, and am more aware of the surroundings and conditions, my speed, and my vulnerability.
Am I at greater risk?
Yes, to some extent, if I have an accident.
On the other hand, because I travel at slower speeds the risk of having a serious accident is reduced, and the risk of serious injury is also lower.
ATGATT is fine sounding..... but preachy and impractical.