I am on the third motorcycle in 15 years; I don't wear any special clothing when I commute and commuting with the motorcycle takes 1/3 of the time at rush hours versus car or public transportation. Most of the summer I just ride with a helmet and gloves, if it is colder I wear a jacket. For commuting, accidents in the city are less serious than on the highway or twisties.

Yes, for rainy days I have a pair of waterproof overpants in the top case and a pair of waterproof gloves. The jackets are all waterproof (Goretex or similar). I got soaked wet while commuting on the bicycle, never on the motorcycle.