balance , seriously , maybe it is time to forego a few lattes and have a long , hard look at the priority list . I really do feel that an honest look at that list will see one of these options pictured soar to new heights on said scroll .
Tech-Air 5 ($ 1399 )* Incorporating three digital gyroscopes and three accelerometers , these roadfocused under-shirts have algorithms created to detect any crash situation and deploy in 20-30 microseconds . The impact absorption and protection reduces impact forces by up to 95 percent over a passive system . In layman ’ s terms , it offers similar protection to 18 ( yep – 18 ) conventional back protectors . If you don ’ t even wear a decent back protector , the maths is even more poignant . A single charge ( USB ) lasts for 30 hours of ride time , just in case you were looking for a downside . It also comes with an app so you can check status and a detailed analysis of your ride , should you require conversation fodder as well as state of the art protection .
Tech-Air 3 / Stella Tech-Air 3 ( womens ) $ 999 * Designed for the tourer or urban commuter / warrior , the ‘ 3 ’ is a vest designed for ease of use , utilising much of the tech from the 5-series in a compact solution . Bluetooth connectivity to check status and analyse your journey is retained in a slim , non-invasive option . And the good news for the fairer sex is there is a specific womens ’ fit version , the Stella 3 available too .
Tech-Air 10 The Full Monty $ 1999 * As good as it gets , the ‘ 10 ’ even uses AI to follow your movements on the track . Complete with a wireless remote to keep you and your team in the loop , the extended coverage of the ‘ 10 ’ also
When ? covers your hip area and lower back , as well as massive spine protection , shoulders and chest . Using 12 sensors as well as three tri-axial accelerometers and a triaxial gyroscope , the crash algorithms are focused for pure track protection .
Tech-Air Off Road $ 1599 * For the off-road Rally types out there , the Tech-Air Off-road is designed specifically for your needs and it has its own set of algorithms to suit . Incorporating shoulder and collarbone armour , it is a one-piece solution to wear under your compatible external shell .
The first shipments of this all new range have arrived here in NZ just in time for those summer rides and / or the racing season , so ask your favourite AlpineStars dealer to kit you up . A thought ... Have you ever met a motorcyclist who came off , wearing the best protective gear who said “ I wish I didn ’ t have that gear on when I crashed ? No , that person does not exist . Finding someone who wished they had that gear on when they crashed ? Yeah , sure , pretty easy to find . Unfortunately , sometimes they are all too east to spot , even from a distance . Pricing versus cost is an equation that needs serious consideration and a pragmatic approach at times . Thanks go to Mitch Rees for the graphic , umm , graph for our viewing . We have plenty of proof of efficacy now mate , so no more ‘ testing ’ okay ? And for the others out there on track , no trying to beat Mitch ’ s high score , right ? All the best for the season .
* Please note that in the current climate , pricing may change due to shipping etc .
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