I left all the armor in my Tourmaster jacket. The added armor doesn't bother me or reduce my riding abilities. I think the question you need to ask is, for the way you ride (whether it's mostly around the block, commute to work or 200+ mile rides), does the armor/padding take away from your skills and senses? If yes, take them out. When I first got my jacket it was stiff and ackward, but I quickly got used to it. Now I'm so comfortable with it. I think I would actually be distracted if I took the armor out.

2005 America, green/gray, gutted stock pipes, tall sissy bar w/ luggage rack, Saddleman's dual touring seat and Tourmaster saddlebags (and sissybar bag).