Do you guys use back protectors or think that the padding in jackets is good enough. I am looking at this (http://www.alpinestars.com/Bionic_Back_Protector/pd/c/170/np/170/p/650407.html) and this (http://www.alpinestars.com/Bionic_Race_Shield/pd/c/170/np/170/p/650538.html). The second one might be an overkill and is probaly meant for race track use.

For regular riding, do you use riding pants with protection or just regular jeans?

I'm ATGATT, and my jackets, gloves and pants ALL have armor built in. Haven't "used" the armor yet (HOPE never!). :goodluck:

I use Dainese (http://www.dainese.com/eu_en/motorbike/back-shield-7-8-air.html?cat=41) back protector on every ride. Very comfortable and I intend to never find out if it works.

I would recommend Knox armor. (http://www.knox-armour.co.uk/product.html?product=contour) Yes, they are expensive but I wish I knew about them before I bought mine.
Lots of info and nice shop here:
http://stores.sportbiketrackgear.com/Categories.bok?category=KNOX+Armor%3ABody+Armor%3A Back+and+Spine

Motoport or Aerostich built in armor for me.

Motoport kevlar pants and jacket with armor built in.

Do you guys use back protectors or think that the padding in jackets is good enough.

That would depend on the jacket, of course. If your jacket has built in armor that meets the CE standards (including the back protector, not all jackets offer that, especially not the budget ones) then you are probably OK without a race back protector (but obviously one of those will offer better protection). Some jackets don't include a protector that meets the CE standards, but have the right sized/shaped pocket to accept one, so you can replace it with one that fits in your jacket. Some homework will be required to figure out the shape and back protector options.

I never ride in jeans, but then, I don't commute. When I did commute, I used a Roadcrafter that easily fits over your street clothes. When I go riding it's ATGATT - I wear a helmet, armored motorcycle jacket, pants and boots. And gloves of course, because that's usually the first thing you'll put down as you are about to go asphalt surfing... :eek:


Gustavo

For regular riding, do you use riding pants with protection or just regular jeans?

It is always ATGATT for me. I am another newby (like yourself) and expect I will come off at some stage :( (yet I hope not to).

I never ride in regular jeans or pants. I normally use a pair of armoured over trousers or a pair of Kevlar Draggin Jeans with hip and knee protection.

Unfortunately I bought my jeans before I finished my research and didn't realise that there are two manufacturers of Draggin Jeans - the US (http://www.dragginjeans.com/) and Aussies (http://www.dragginjeans.net/). The Aussie's have higher standards (CE Rating on seams for example (http://www.dragginjeans.net/draggin-news/)) and a bigger range.

Try www.impactarmor.com . they make protection for racing guys and have been working/assitsting these guys for motrad design. Drop a mail to Michael Braxton [impactarmor@hotmail.com] and he should help you out.

I have one tailored to my liking and use it on long tours.

:cheers:

Thanks Fastoman

I have a T-Pro EN1621-2 Level 2 back protector. I wear it at the track and for racing - and then toss it under my 'Stitch for street riding. Landing on my back on a car hood isn't going to hurt any less than a tumble on my back on the track, I think. I like T-Pro because it conforms to my body and fits snugly.

I prefer separate back protectors that strap to your back and shoulders over the pocket ones for jackets. One, they tend to have more coverage, and two, they'll have a better chance of staying in place on your back if you crash.

Also, for CE - anybody can say they have 'CE' armor. It doesn't mean anything. The claim that means something is EN1621-2, the EU back protector safety standard - back protectors can meet the less stringent level 1 or the more stringent level 2. (EN-1261-1 is for other body armor.)

Get a Camelbak. Hydraulic protection, plus beverages of your choice :D

Get a Camelbak. Hydraulic protection, plus beverages of your choice :D


Then it's just hydro protection. No oil.
Smart ass ;)