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By Jimmy, 2010/07/14 6:32 pm

I’m sure that most people visiting YPRider have either witnessed or experienced an unfortunate accident while riding.  Mine was relatively painless, although very embarrassing; losing my balance and low-siding.  Ever since then, I’ve been thinking more about protection and relatively easy ways to incorporate it into one’s existing collection of gear.  I recently had the opportunity to evaluate the Alpinestars (www.alpinestars.com) Track Protection Vest and believe it to be a great addition for any rider.  The gist of the vest is that it has foam padding along the chest and sides, along with a hard, CE-approved back protector.  It features stretchable, mesh material that accommodates a variety of sizes and provides a comfortable fit.  The back protector covers a good portion of the back without running too tall/long, and the entire profile of the vest allows it to be worn underneath existing jackets without having to go up one size.  While accidents may occur in any number of ways, I feel that the vest, at a reasonable $189, is a worthwhile upgrade.  Here are some thoughts and pictures.

• The mesh material is very stretchy and loosely woven, meaning good airflow and comfort.
• I wear an Alpinestars jacket in Large, and ordered the Track Protection Vest in Large.  I’d say that the vest comfortably fits Large, plus or minus half a size.  For me, I am confident that the vest in Medium would also work (doesn’t seem to be in stock now, though).
• The chest area features two layers of foam protection, whereas the lower front, shoulders, and sides have one layer of foam.
• The foam sections to be perforated for ventilation.
• The density of the vest allows it to be worn under existing jackets (no need to go a size up unless you’re already very snug).
• Bionic back protector is CE-certified.
• The back protector is comprised of 5 interlocking plates that bend forward, but resist flexing in the reverse direction (backwards) and side-to-side.
• The back protector plates are perforated and made of a somewhat flexible plastic.  Feels quite sturdy.
• Bionic back protector allows a good range of motion while hunched over – perfect for those sportbikes.
• The back protector itself is removable via a wrap-around zipper.
• The back protector has foam sections underneath for additional cushioning and comfort.
• The vest is washable after removing the back protector.

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By Jimmy, 2010/05/08 10:03 pm

Recently, I’ve been interested in replacing my short Alpinestars Ridge boots with more substantial full-length ones.  My requirements were that the boots: a) be protective b) be waterproof c) have a lug sole d) be walkable.  After much searching, I settled on checking out the SIDI (www.sidisport.com) On Road boots ($325) and the Alpinestars (www.alpinestars.com) Scout boots ($279).  Both boots offer good protection over the shins, excellent construction, a comfortable footbed, and a completely waterproof/breathable interior.  The On Road presents a cleaner, more attractive look, which fits well with wanting footwear that would be acceptable for a short walk around the city.  However, the Scout offers slightly more protection and a flexible clasp-based enclosure.  Those two factors, combined with a lower price-tag and better usability, makes the Scout a better deal from my perspective.  I feel that one can’t go wrong in choosing either pair of boots, but each targets a different kind of rider.  Here is a quick break-down of my observations.

SIDI On Road Boots

1.  The SIDI On Road uses 3 Velcro panels for attachment.  The bottom 2 panels can be adjusted slightly wider through a second loop.
2.  The On Road features hard protection around the heel, toes, and inner ankle.  The shin section is simply leather with no added armor.
3.  The On Road works better with pants going over the boots instead of inside.  Tucking pants inside proved very difficult.

Alpinestars Scout Boots

1.  The Alpinestars Scout has a Velcro panel at the top and 3 adjustable clasps.  The clasps feel sturdy once in place, and they open/close with firm application of force.
2.  The Scout’s lug sole is prone to picking up small pebbles while walking due to the tight tread pattern.
3.  The Scout features hard protection around the heel, toes, and inner ankle.  There is raised padding and semi-rigid protection in the front of the shin.
4.  The Scout works great with pants on the outside or tucked in.  The adjustable clasps and wider top opening allowed for a better fit.