Motorcycle rider protection and stuff

I occasionally drive a 18k lb lift truck that likes to over steer in a mild curve and I never take my eyes off the environment while driving from sac to sf in that thing so I do generally understand keeping an eye on what others are doing.

What I am looking for mainly is jackets, helmets, full body carbon steel armor or other useful experiences of what works.

Leather is very nice. A racing suit is the best way to go. Here is the vest you can wear and more less required to ride on a military base.
http://www.revzilla.com/product/icon-mil-spec-mesh-vest

You can also by the armor to wear armor as well.