Alpinestars Tech-Air Off-Road Jacket has recently received considerable attention in the motorcycle community for its innovative design and promise of enhanced safety features. But does it live up to the hype and can it deliver on its impressive safety claims?
For several years before it’s public release in 2024 the Tech-Air Off-Road System was only available to pro riders competing in such elite events as the Dakar Rally. In this article we’re going to do a comprehensive round-up of the feedback and reviews published in the world’s top motorcycle magazines, by riders who have eagerly awaited the opportunity to test it for themselves.
Ease of Setup & Use
One notable advantage of the Tech-Air Off-Road Jacket is its user-friendly setup process. Users are reporting that doing the initial configuration is straightforward, with clear instructions provided. The ability to replace canisters easily adds to its user serviceability, ensuring minimal downtime between deployments. Although the canister replacement process may seem complex at first, it seems that Alpinestars have simplified and streamlined it to be manageable for even novice users.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is paramount for any piece of riding gear, and, by all accounts, the jacket delivers in this aspect. Reviewers praise its comfortable fit when compared to traditional armoured jackets. Some users noted that the back panel of the jacket is bulkier due to the placement of the ECU, Gyros, and air canisters. Despite this, riders found the weight distribution to be tolerable on the whole, especially during long rides. The ability to customise the jacket by removing or reinserting pads was an added bonus in terms of adapting to different riding conditions.
Versatile Riding Modes
The Tech-Air Off-Road Jacket offers multiple riding modes tailored to various terrains and riding styles. Whether cruising on the street or navigating challenging off-road trails, riders can select the appropriate mode for optimal protection. The system’s intelligent algorithms ensure precise deployment, mitigating the risk of false alarms while providing good protection during actual accidents. Reviewers often gave feedback about how the jacket was good at picking up on small tumbles and not deploying.
Enhanced Protection
One of the standout features of the jacket is its protective capabilities. Equipped with advanced sensors and gyroscopes, the system can detect and respond to crashes within milliseconds, significantly reducing the risk of injury. Riders have commented on its ability to minimise impact forces, speculating that many of these could have been much more serious injuries such as collarbone or spinal injuries.
While the Alpinestars Tech-Air Off-Road Jacket boasts numerous benefits, testers made note of potential drawbacks that are worth considering.
Ventilation Limitations
Despite efforts to optimise ventilation, the jacket’s airflow is somewhat restricted, particularly around the chest and back areas where the airbags are located. Riders noted instances of moisture buildup during intense riding sessions, highlighting a potential discomfort in hot weather conditions.
User Interface Accessibility
Some users found the control panel’s placement inconvenient, requiring them to unzip their jackets to access essential functions. This design aspect can be cumbersome, especially when adjusting settings or powering the system on/off during rides.
Cost Considerations
With a not-insignificant price tag attached, the Tech-Air Off-Road Jacket may pose a financial barrier for some riders. While the investment in safety is invaluable, the upfront cost could deter budget-conscious consumers, prompting them to explore alternative options.
Maintenance and Service
Although the jacket’s user serviceability is a notable feature, ongoing maintenance and servicing may incur additional expenses over time. While Alpinestars offers reasonable service fees, frequent deployments or wear and tear could necessitate more frequent servicing, adding to the overall ownership costs.
In conclusion, the Alpinestars Tech-Air Off-Road Jacket represents a significant advancement in motorcycle safety gear, offering riders enhanced protection and peace of mind on various terrains. Its user-friendly design, versatile riding modes, and robust protective features make it a compelling choice for both seasoned adventurers and everyday riders.
However, potential buyers should weigh the upfront cost against the long-term benefits and consider factors such as comfort, ventilation, and maintenance requirements. Despite these considerations, the Tech-Air Off-Road Jacket remains a top contender in the realm of motorcycle protective apparel, paving the way for safer and more enjoyable riding experiences for enthusiasts worldwide.
To Recap:
Pros
- Comfortable Fit: Users find the Alpinestars Tech-Air Off-Road comfortable to wear, with a familiar fit for those accustomed to Alpinestars armored jackets.
- Usability: The system is intuitive and straightforward to use, with easy activation and mode switching.
- Protection: The Tech-Air Off-Road offers comprehensive protection with three different algorithms catering to various riding disciplines, reducing impact forces significantly.
- Quality Build: The jacket is well-built with top-quality materials, developed with input from professional riders and extensively tested.
- Versatility: The jacket can be worn under various outer layers and provides protection for both on and off-road riding scenarios.
Cons
- Bulkiness & Ventilation: Some users note that the back panel of the jacket is bulkier due to the placement of the ECU, Gyros, and air canisters. And that these components can also compromise ventilation.
- Control Panel Positioning: The position of the control panel makes it inconvenient to access for mode switching or deactivation without unzipping the jacket.
- Price: The price tag might be prohibitive for some potential buyers, although the level of protection offered is considered worth it by many.
- Visibility: The jacket is designed to be worn under other garments and is not intended to be visible, potentially limiting its aesthetic appeal for some users.
Tech-Air Off Road System Black/Red
Review Sources for further reading:
- New Alpinestars Tech-Air ‘Off-Road’ Airbag Jacket Tested, https://www.advpulse.com/adv-news/alpinestars-tech-air-off-road-review/
- Alpinestars Tech-Air Off-Road Airbag System Review, https://www.dirtrider.com/gear/alpinestars-tech-air-off-road-airbag-system-review/
- MO Tested: Alpinestars Tech-Air Off-Road Review, https://www.motorcycle.com/bikes/product/mo-tested-alpinestars-tech-air-off-road-review-44599420
- Alpinestars Tech-Air Off-Road review | Next level off-road protection, https://www.motorcyclenews.com/bike-kit/jackets/alpinestars-tech-air-off-road/