Leather Motorcycle Suits: Which One to Choose?
Welcome aboard the world of Motostorm, today we're going to dive into the vital world of leather motorbike suits. We're not just talking about an item of clothing, but a symbol of safety, style and passion for life on the road.
Sit back and get ready to learn everything you need to know about leather track and road suits: from why you should have one, to how to choose the right one for you, to their maintenance.
Why Choose a Leather Motorcycle Suit?
The leather motorbike suit is not just an iconic garment, evocative of legendary motorcycling figures and Hollywood stuntmen. It is much more. It is an essential protective shield that every motorcyclist should have.
The tear and abrasion resistance offered by a leather suit is unsurpassed, ensuring maximum protection for your body in the event of a fall.
And let's not forget that we are talking about leather, a natural material that, besides being durable, offers unrivalled comfort and flexibility. You will feel the leather adhere to you like a second skin, allowing you to move freely and confidently.
How to Choose the Right Leather Suit?
1. Size and Size
When it comes to choosing a motorbike leather suit, size is the first aspect to consider. A well-fitted suit not only offers superior protection, but also reduces wind resistance, allowing you to ride faster and more easily. Many people expect the suit to fit perfectly in an upright position but it is a mistake because the garment is studied and designed to guarantee maximum comfort in the driving position.
If you are in doubt between two sizes, our advice is always to opt for the smaller one. The leather will tend to stretch and adapt to your body with time.
2. Type of Leather, Cow or Kangaroo?
The leather used in motorbike suits can be of two main types: cowhide and kangaroo. Cowhide, which is thick and durable, is the ideal choice for those seeking maximum protection at the right price.
Kangaroo leather, on the other hand, while lighter and more flexible, does not sacrifice safety, offering excellent abrasion resistance and unparalleled comfort.
3. Protections
Protections are another key element to consider when choosing a motorbike leather suit. A good suit should have integrated protectors on the knees, elbows, shoulders and back, the areas most exposed in the event of a fall. Some suits go further, offering additional protectors on the chest and hips for full coverage.
Airbag Integration: Extra Protection
One of the most significant innovations in the field of motorbike suits is the integrated airbag. This safety device, available in various models from top brands such as Dainese, is activated in the event of a fall, inflating to protect the most sensitive parts of the rider's body.
Alternatively, some brands offer protective devices for riders in garments separate from the leather suit, which are worn below the main protection. An innovative example of this is the Tech Air-10 Alpinestars, a undersuit that integrates an electronic airbag system directly into the garment.
There are two main types of motorbike suit airbags: mechanical and electronic. Mechanical airbags are activated by a cable connected to the motorbike, which detaches in the event of a fall, triggering the airbag to deploy. On the other hand, electronic airbags, such as those found in the Dainese smart jacket, use sensors that detect sudden changes in speed or position, activating autonomously and instantaneously.
One or Two-Piece Motorcycle Leather Suit?
The choice between a one piece suit and a two-piece depends largely on the use you intend to make of it. The one-piece suit is the only one allowed for track use, as it offers continuous protection along the entire body and guarantees maximum aerodynamics.
However, if you also plan to use the suit for longer trips or everyday riding, you might consider a divisible suit, which offers more flexibility and comfort.
Airbag Replacement: Tank and Bag
A crucial element to consider when it comes to motorbike leather suits is the maintenance of the airbag after activation. Once activated, the suit's built-in airbag must necessarily be replaced, along with the gas cylinder that inflates it. The CO2 refill cannot be restored, but it also must be replaced with a new one.
It is not possible to carry out the replacement yourself but must be carried out by a qualified technician or authorised dealer to ensure that the suit is ready for use again, this applies to both the bag and the CO2 cylinder refill. The correct performance of this operation is critical to the proper functioning of the airbag system.
Leather Suit Maintenance: How to Clean a Motorcycle Suit
A leather suit requires a little care and attention to maintain its flexibility and durability. This is not an onerous task, but a few simple steps. Clean the suit regularly with a damp cloth and a cleansing milk to remove dirt and sweat that can dry out the skin. After cleansing, it is essential to moisturise the suit with moisturizing cream to prevent the formation of cracks and keep the skin soft and supple.
Conclusion
Investing in a leather suit doesn't just mean improving your riding experience. It means taking an extra step for your safety, showing your love of style and attention to detail. Don't underestimate the importance of a good leather suit: take the time to make the right choice. And remember, with Motostorm, you're always in good hands.
