Track protection: anybody using Astar....

SFer

SFer

Well-known member
Anybody using either the
1. track vest
2. Smx bionic 2

alpinestars_Track_Vest_400.jpg


2009-Alpinestars-SMX-Bionic-2-Vest-Black.jpg


I have an older back protector but it is way thicker than the newer ones. A friend needs a back protector so thought of selling older one and upgrading. Saw these two options both seem to be exactly what I'm looking for.
Anybody using them or know somebody that is?
 
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I got the smx-2. Fits snug and is very adjustable. After I took out the foam padding in my gppro jacket it hardly adds bulk. I've never crashed in it but feels like it would hold up well.
 
ALP_BionicSPVest_detail.jpg

This is what i have used for a few years now, pretty trick piece of equipment IMO. Back, chest and to a lesser degree collarbone and kidney protection.
 
Yeah, I noticed that one aswell.
I'm thinking I can't really go wrong with any of them.
 
Have you looked into the Forcefield stuff? That's what I use in my jacket, light and CE Level 2 certified.
 
When I replace my BP it'll be forcefield and I love my Knox chest protector. It's one piece, covers your ribs and doesn't need any straps to hold it in place.
 
dricked said:
When I replace my BP it'll be forcefield and I love my Knox chest protector. It's one piece, covers your ribs and doesn't need any straps to hold it in place.
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I have the Knox you're referring to, and never used it. Not because it isn't great, but because I'm kinda on the fat side and when I have it on, I look like Arnold Schwarzenegger in my upper torso :(
 
Corsara said:
I have the Knox you're referring to, and never used it. Not because it isn't great, but because I'm kinda on the fat side and when I have it on, I look like Arnold Schwarzenegger in my upper torso :(
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Who cares what you look like, I'd rather look like a clown than have a broken/cracked rib. It takes a little getting used to but you'll feel necked without it once you do.
 
knox or forcefield protectors are the best on the market. That A* stuff is junk
 
daisoman said:
Oh yeah tell that to motogp riders. I'm sure they can vouch for astar protectors saving them a few times.
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I don't think the A* stuff that MotoGP riders wear, is the same stuff you buy at your local moto shop.
I think any of the under armour you guys linked in this thread will work well.
 
are either of those vests listed in the OP CE2?

Watch some reviews (stg to start) and do some reading. The two companies i listed have the best products you can buy. I see moto gp riders getting hurt a lot :p
 
FriendlyFoe said:
are either of those vests listed in the OP CE2?

Watch some reviews (stg to start) and do some reading. The two companies i listed have the best products you can buy. I see moto gp riders getting hurt a lot :p
Click to expand...

All the A* track vests / BP are CE2.

Force field is a bit steep $$ and it looks thicker than the A*

Knox definitely looks thicker.

Space is at a premium in my suit....
 
I have the Knox chest protector, and although it offers a lot of protection, it's kinda too thick and bulky. So, I am trying to decide on a replacement, which will allow me to zip my suit without struggling, and also let me to breath after that somewhat normally. Basically, I'm looking for something that will be less physically noticeable when worn, even if at the expense of a little less protection. Below is what I've researched so far, if someone has seen any of these in person, I would appreciate if you share your impressions.

Knox chest protector
This is what I have and don't like because it's too thick:
KNOX%20CHEST.jpg



Alpinestars Tech Chest Guard
This is what Marquez puts under his leathers (or at least it looks exactly like it):
2007_Alpinestars_Tech_Chest_Guard_--.jpg


Dainese L2 Chest Protector (or L1?)
This is what Rossi appears to wear, as well as Guy Martin:
Dainese_Dainese_Chest_Protector_detail.jpg

Forcefield Race Lite Chest Protector
Seems like a good one:
forcefield_racelite_main.jpg
 
Same vest as triggerhappy, although the spine protector comes down lower at the back. May be just a function of size. Really like the vest, does not take up much room and a bit flexible too. I also have to offer the classic "I forget that I have it on" because it is so comfortable.
 
Corsara said:
I have the Knox chest protector, and although it offers a lot of protection, it's kinda too thick and bulky. So, I am trying to decide on a replacement, which will allow me to zip my suit without struggling, and also let me to breath after that somewhat normally. Basically, I'm looking for something that will be less physically noticeable when worn, even if at the expense of a little less protection. Below is what I've researched so far, if someone has seen any of these in person, I would appreciate if you share your impressions.

Knox chest protector
This is what I have and don't like because it's too thick:
KNOX%20CHEST.jpg



Alpinestars Tech Chest Guard
This is what Marquez puts under his leathers (or at least it looks exactly like it):
2007_Alpinestars_Tech_Chest_Guard_--.jpg


Dainese L2 Chest Protector (or L1?)
This is what Rossi appears to wear, as well as Guy Martin:
Dainese_Dainese_Chest_Protector_detail.jpg

Forcefield Race Lite Chest Protector
Seems like a good one:
forcefield_racelite_main.jpg
Click to expand...

I doubt those will be much thinner. I don't even notice mine, sounds like your suit is a bit tight.
 
Corsara said:
I have the Knox chest protector, and although it offers a lot of protection, it's kinda too thick and bulky. So, I am trying to decide on a replacement, which will allow me to zip my suit without struggling, and also let me to breath after that somewhat normally. Basically, I'm looking for something that will be less physically noticeable when worn, even if at the expense of a little less protection.
Click to expand...

I thought you had a winter fitness plan, hoping to lose some weight. I'd suggest you wait until closer to spring to see where you're at and how the suit fits. :)
 
doozerdave said:
I thought you had a winter fitness plan, hoping to lose some weight. I'd suggest you wait until closer to spring to see where you're at and how the suit fits. :)
Click to expand...

That is true, and I've already started working on that plan, I'm determined to succeed. It's obviously smart to wait, I was just thinking about the chest protector and couldn't imagine myself feeling comfortable with it, no matter how much weight I lose. Damn, the Great Winter Wander Of The Mind has started, hasn't it.. :(
 
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