Alpinestars Tech Air 5 Plasma

[r0ckrat]

Worth reading (also from Revzilla):

CE ratings in motorcycle gear: What do they mean? - RevZilla

Understanding CE ratings on motorcycle gear can help you make sure you're making the right choice for your personal safety and comfort.

www.revzilla.com

 

[brownie0486]

To those that use this...is all this tech really rated as CE Level 1???

From Revzilla's website.

CE Certification:​

• The Tech-Air® 5 PLASMA System and all the included protective parts are Category II certified PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) under European Regulation (UE) 2016/425 and in compliance under corresponding UK legislation
• The passive back-protector is CE certified according to the EN1621-2:2014 Level 1 (Full Back)
• The inflatable protector is CE certified according to EN 1621-4:2013 Level 1 (Full Back).
• The System is CE certified as a protective garment for motorcycle riders according to the EN 17092-6:2020 as a Class C undergarment

Says it reduces injury by 93% over passive armor. That and the above are all I could go on myself.

 

[kickstandsup]

And a copy of a chat I just had with them. This is a CE level 1 garment. Hardly seems worth it to me.


"I'm looking at the Astar plasma airbag. I'm confused about the CE rating. Is this system rated CE level one or two?

I can take a look into that for you, one moment.

standing by

For the standard CE rating, the inflation as well as passive protection it is CE level 1. It is category or level 2 for a different rating, the European Regulation (UE) 2016/425 certified PPE

So if I'm trying to compare this to CE level 1 or 2 armor, the shoulders and back of the plasma are equivalent to CE 1?

Correct.

Thank you."

 

[collingsbob]

And a copy of a chat I just had with them. This is a CE level 1 garment. Hardly seems worth it to me.


"I'm looking at the Astar plasma airbag. I'm confused about the CE rating. Is this system rated CE level one or two?

I can take a look into that for you, one moment.

standing by

For the standard CE rating, the inflation as well as passive protection it is CE level 1. It is category or level 2 for a different rating, the European Regulation (UE) 2016/425 certified PPE

So if I'm trying to compare this to CE level 1 or 2 armor, the shoulders and back of the plasma are equivalent to CE 1?

Correct.

Thank you."

I put my new to me Tech Air 5 Plasma yesterday. My normal jacket is a Klim Latitude..The huge difference between the armour in the Latitude and the Plasma is the amount of coverage..the Plasma has a lot more coverage than the jacket alone..the jacket alone did not protect my shoulder blade - which was shattered, nor did it protect my ribs - 6 ribs broken in 12 places resulting in a flail chest, an injury that I was told most people don’t survive, and a punctured lung. Frankly, if the Plasma only provides slightly more protection than the Latitude alone, I’ll take it.

 

[kbasa]

I put my new to me Tech Air 5 Plasma yesterday. My normal jacket is a Klim Latitude..The huge difference between the armour in the Latitude and the Plasma is the amount of coverage..the Plasma has a lot more coverage than the jacket alone..the jacket alone did not protect my shoulder blade - which was shattered, nor did it protect my ribs - 6 ribs broken in 12 places resulting in a flail chest, an injury that I was told most people don’t survive, and a punctured lung. Frankly, if the Plasma only provides slightly more protection than the Latitude alone, I’ll take it.

A classic example of trying not to let "perfect" be the enemy of "good".

I just bought a Dainese Springbok 3, which has Level 2 armor in it. I have a Level 2 backrest for it, but will wear my air vest instead. While the backrest might be more protective for my back, the air vest includes coverage for my chest. IMHO, it's a better and more complete level of protection for the rest of my torso so that's what I wear.

I'm certainly not trying to convince anyone to change what they wear, but sharing my thought process. I hope it's helpful.

 

[r0ckrat]

And a copy of a chat I just had with them. This is a CE level 1 garment. Hardly seems worth it to me.


"I'm looking at the Astar plasma airbag. I'm confused about the CE rating. Is this system rated CE level one or two?

I can take a look into that for you, one moment.

standing by

For the standard CE rating, the inflation as well as passive protection it is CE level 1. It is category or level 2 for a different rating, the European Regulation (UE) 2016/425 certified PPE

So if I'm trying to compare this to CE level 1 or 2 armor, the shoulders and back of the plasma are equivalent to CE 1?

Correct.

Thank you."

See again:

Worth reading (also from Revzilla):

CE ratings in motorcycle gear: What do they mean? - RevZilla

Understanding CE ratings on motorcycle gear can help you make sure you're making the right choice for your personal safety and comfort.

www.revzilla.com

The "level 1" designation isn't really what you think it is - it's not an apples-to-apples comparison between a level 1 undergarment and a level 2 jacket...

 

[CaptCF]

A classic example of trying not to let "perfect" be the enemy of "good".

I just bought a Dainese Springbok 3, which has Level 2 armor in it. I have a Level 2 backrest for it, but will wear my air vest instead. While the backrest might be more protective for my back, the air vest includes coverage for my chest. IMHO, it's a better and more complete level of protection for the rest of my torso so that's what I wear.

I'm certainly not trying to convince anyone to change what they wear, but sharing my thought process. I hope it's helpful.

That's my SOP as well. If the jacket doesn't come with level 2 D3O then I'll buy the elbows and shoulders, swap them out and remove the stock back protector and wear my Tech Air 5. I think the only jacket that I bought recently enough to remember doing the swap was a Latitude last year. Strange that it came with level 1 whereas the mesh Induction Pro came with level 2. *shrug*

 

[abkagarg95630]

TA5P heat report. TLDR, it's less hot than I was expecting.

Just completed a 2h ride in 95-98ºF weather. Full sun, low humidity. I rode on highway speeds up to 80MPH and low speeds in city/town traffic as well as mountain curves. Stopped for a 15m break about 2/3 of the way in. I expected to overheat and I mostly didn't. This was my first hot weather ride on this bike. It's fitted with a vented CalSci wide windshield so mostly blocks all wind. My previous hot weather riding has been on a naked standard with a mesh jacket and no chest armor. This is also my first airbag so only comparison is to that mesh jacket scenario.

When I got warm, I stood up on the pegs to get some air and had an immediate cool down, including some towards the back if I wiggled the body somewhat. This suggests there is plenty of ventilation present. However, for my touring scenario, I wanted to make sure I would be comfortable on the RT. While I'd much prefer the mesh scenario for comfort, I'd take this alt scenario for safely touring on the RT.

At the end of the trip, I took pictures of the damp areas of the undershirt and they're mostly corresponding to where the airbag is present - with most dampness on the chest and upper back area. The undershirt is an old 32ºCool brand so probably not doing very effective wicking. Still working on figuring out the best base layer. Any recommendations appreciated.

Gear I was wearing for context on overall heat experience:
32ºCool half sleeve undershirt. Very lightweight.
Tech-Air5 M, which is snug but fits well. L fits too, so am in a bit of a dilemma on which one to keep.
A* Faster V3 Airflow leather jacket. One size larger (54) than my size. The mesh on this jacket seems to nicely compliment the airbag position.
No additional chest armor added but kept the existing L1 shoulder armor in A*. Should I add chest armor?
RST Tech Pro CE jeans with stock armor. 4* safety at Motocap with 3* breathability. I didn't feel much airflow though.
Darn Tough Westerner over calf merino blend socks. These felt hot at the heel when temp got to 98º. I'll replace with unpadded, shorter ones.
TCX Blend 2 waterproof leather boots (not GoreTex version) with 1" heel riser inserts. The inserts may have contributed to the heat and overall the shoes were fine, but there was no relief on the legs like I got from standing up on pegs. I'm considering adding highway pegs to get legs out of the fairing.
Shoei X-15 racing helmet with all vents open. This is supposed to be heavily vented and I didn't feel hot, except when stopped and I had to open the visor.
Sedici vented leather short gloves. I tried the A* GP+R v3 but the gauntlet on those seemed oppressively constraining even indoors. Need to find other summer gloves. The Sedici were pretty sweat soaked by the end of the ride, which is typical of my previous summer riding - even on the naked bike.

Hopefully this helps.

 

[r0ckrat]

For socks, try the lightweight ski socks from SmartWool. Super comfy, and I haven't noticed them as a "heat source" in temps over 100*. Merino wool blend, very thin, but last a long time.

 

[collingsbob]

I wear moisture wicking socks from Under Armour..

UA Performance Tech Unisex No Show Socks 6-Pack | Under Armour Canada

Shop Under Armour for UA Performance Tech Unisex No Show Socks 6-Pack

www.underarmour.ca

 

[brownie0486]

For socks, try the lightweight ski socks from SmartWool. Super comfy, and I haven't noticed them as a "heat source" in temps over 100*. Merino wool blend, very thin, but last a long time.

I wear 100% alpaca socks when riding. Temps in the summer can be over 105 and as high as 115F. No sweating in the alpaca's and they provide warmth in the cold riding during trips into Montana etc.

Benefits of Alpaca
Breathability:
Alpaca fibers are hollow, allowing air to circulate and preventing overheating.

Moisture-wicking:
Alpaca naturally pulls moisture away from the skin, allowing for evaporation and keeping feet dry.

Temperature regulation:
Alpaca's unique structure helps regulate temperature, keeping feet cool in warm weather and warm in cold weather.

 

[abkagarg95630]

I am trying to decide between baselayers and have never worn them before. Tried the Axial Base, Compression and A* RideTechV2 at the local CycleGear store. A* was much lighter and immediately cooling. Dainese is apparently also made of the same material (and originated) Dryarn but I couldn't try that one. Anyone with experience between A*, Dianese, and something like UA HeatGear for wearing under the airbag? My only hesitation in pulling the trigger on A* is the price of A* is 3x HeatGear and if I'm going to spend that much, I might as well get the thing that's the best.

 

[collingsbob]

I am trying to decide between baselayers and have never worn them before. Tried the Axial Base, Compression and A* RideTechV2 at the local CycleGear store. A* was much lighter and immediately cooling. Dainese is apparently also made of the same material (and originated) Dryarn but I couldn't try that one. Anyone with experience between A*, Dianese, and something like UA HeatGear for wearing under the airbag? My only hesitation in pulling the trigger on A* is the price of A* is 3x HeatGear and if I'm going to spend that much, I might as well get the thing that's the best.

Since we all have different tolerances to heat, “best” might be relative. Buy what you can afford.

 

[paul_f]

Since we all have different tolerances to heat, “best” might be relative.

Merino wool blend socks work for me year round. In the heat of summer, I wear a long sleeve turtle neck shirt up until about 80F. With my mesh riding suit, I am actually cold below that temperature. Between 80-90ish I wear a wicking shirt; sometimes short sleeve, sometimes long sleeve. Above 95F I soak the long sleeve turtle neck shirt as well as my headpiece and can usually ride for a couple of hours before re-wetting. My Helite vest does interfere with the cooling of the mesh jacket but not to a degree that I find bothersome.

Having said the above, I do admit that I've had a thryoid issue for decades (treated with a prescription) and overall, my body reacts much differently to summer heat than my wife and friends. Some riding friends swore by a product (forget the name) which sold head pieces, shirts and underwear that contained a person's body sweat beneath these articles of clothing, keeping the rider cool. For me, not sweating, these clothing items worked doing the opposite, causing unbearable heat. Sweating in heat like a normal person does not happen with me. Knowing of this, I constantly drink water while riding during summer heat.

Between what members have suggested and some trial and error on your part, you will come up with a bearable heat reducing method that works for you with your riding gear and bike.

Good Luck!

Paul

 

[skibum69]

I wear ski socks in my boots and they work very well. Smartwool or Thorlo are both excellent brands.

 

[abkagarg95630]

Merino wool blend socks work for me year round. In the heat of summer, I wear a long sleeve turtle neck shirt up until about 80F. With my mesh riding suit, I am actually cold below that temperature. Between 80-90ish I wear a wicking shirt; sometimes short sleeve, sometimes long sleeve. Above 95F I soak the long sleeve turtle neck shirt as well as my headpiece and can usually ride for a couple of hours before re-wetting. My Helite vest does interfere with the cooling of the mesh jacket but not to a degree that I find bothersome.

Having said the above, I do admit that I've had a thryoid issue for decades (treated with a prescription) and overall, my body reacts much differently to summer heat than my wife and friends. Some riding friends swore by a product (forget the name) which sold head pieces, shirts and underwear that contained a person's body sweat beneath these articles of clothing, keeping the rider cool. For me, not sweating, these clothing items worked doing the opposite, causing unbearable heat. Sweating in heat like a normal person does not happen with me. Knowing of this, I constantly drink water while riding during summer heat.

Between what members have suggested and some trial and error on your part, you will come up with a bearable heat reducing method that works for you with your riding gear and bike.

Good Luck!

Paul

Thanks. I tried the A* today. Kept me dry and cool(ish) but temps were lower with only part of the trip in low 90's. It did NOT keep the sweat (and stink) from the airbag, which I guess is not a solvable problem.
UA HeatGear is on order so will try that too and compare.
I've heard LDComfort's base layers are thicker and meant to be soaked in water. Is your turtle neck anything specific or something general? I'll have to try that out.

 

[abkagarg95630]

I wear ski socks in my boots and they work very well. Smartwool or Thorlo are both excellent brands.

Thanks. I tried the non-cushioned DarnTough merino blend crew length today and those worked about the same as the full calf padded ones from before. I still felt the heat at the heel at some point - even though the temps were lower. Makes me think its not the socks but the shoes. Will do more experiementing.

 

[paul_f]

Thanks. I tried the A* today. Kept me dry and cool(ish) but temps were lower with only part of the trip in low 90's. It did NOT keep the sweat (and stink) from the airbag, which I guess is not a solvable problem.
UA HeatGear is on order so will try that too and compare.
I've heard LDComfort's base layers are thicker and meant to be soaked in water. Is your turtle neck anything specific or something general? I'll have to try that out.

Yes, I did soak the LCD’s with water but for me, no success at keeping me comfortable on extremely hot days. I once even pored water from a hose under the shirt with no success. (Gave the shirt to a friend who loved it.) My turtle neck shirts are cotton and once soaked, under my mesh jacket, usually work like air conditioning. I must admit putting a soaked shirt on is far from a pleasant experience but once I start riding, instant relief from the heat.

 

[skibum69]

Sounds like shoes to me. I too wear Darn Tough and find them good. I always go for highly padded socks.

 

[abkagarg95630]

Sounds like shoes to me. I too wear Darn Tough and find them good. I always go for highly padded socks.

Will do another test. I had put in 'elevator insoles' that had no airflow. Now I've managed to insert the original insoles in on top as well. They look pretty basic to me but the ad copy claims they assist with airflow because of their 'open cell foam'. I just read that as 'cheap', but let's see.