Category Archives: Apparel

Alpinestars – Santiago Drystar Gloves

Product Name – Santiago Drystar Gloves (suggested retail price – € 74.95 Euro / £ 64.99 Sterling)

 SIZE: S-3XL

Category – All-Weather Riding / Touring

Description – Incorporating Alpinestars exclusive DRYSTAR® PERFORMANCE technology for excellent levels of sensitivity on the bike’s controls, the Santiago is 100% waterproof and features a hard knuckle protector to ramp up the protective features on this superb all weather riding glove.

SANTIAGO DRYSTAR® GLOVE KEY FEATURES:

  • Constructed using Alpinestars’ DRYSTAR® PERFORMANCE material technology, which incorporates a sealed and bonded triple layer construction to offer:
    • Reduced material chassis which promotes high levels of comfort, tactility and sensitivity on the bike’s
    • High levels of durability and interior material
    • Excellent windproofing
  • Glove incorporates Alpinestars’ exclusive 100 per cent waterproof and breathable DRYSTAR® membrane.
  • Constructed from durable Clarino palm and thumb for excellent levels of durability and abrasion-resistance.
  • Synthetic suede reinforcement on palm and outer hand provide abrasion resistance in key impact
  • Over-molded, advanced polymer knuckle protection provides excellent levels of impact and abrasion-resistance.
  • EVA foam padding on fingers and outer-hand for excellent comfort and
  • Extended gauntlet wrist construction for maximum coverage and weather
  • Reflective detailing on thumb and wrist improves visibility of rider in poor light
  • Velcro® cuff closure for a comfortable and secure
  • Elasticated wrist cuff ensure safe and close-fitting
  • Smartphone compatible finger-tip on index finger for use with GPS systems, tablets

Buffalo Clothing 2015 Range Highlights

Buffalo has introduced a wide variety of new lines for 2015, including touring jackets for men & women, mesh jackets and matching gloves. With prices for the latest textile jackets starting at £79.99 and topping out at £99.99, value for money features as strongly as practicality and styling details in the updated range from Buffalo.

Alpine touring jacket – produced in subtly different styles for men and women [above left & right] the Alpine is Buffalo’s ultimate touring jacket, yet costs just £99.99. The outer shell features Ripstop and Scotchlite panels, which appear normal in daylight but are retro-reflective in the dark. Inside is CE armour and two linings, one waterproof and the other thermal. There’s also a large back pocket. The men’s version comes in Black, Black/Stone and Black/Yellow, sizes small – 5XL. The ladies Alpine jacket has a flare zip over the hips and stretch panels under the arms for a comfortable and flattering fit. It comes in Black and Black/stone in sizes 8 – 22.

Coolflow ST mesh jacket & jeans this 3-layer vented jacket has a fine mesh outer shell with plenty of adjustment to prevent billowing in the wind, together with CE protection at shoulders and elbows. Inside are removable waterproof and thermal liners, making the Coolflow ST highly versatile. Available in traditional Black and a more European-style Stone/Red, Coolflow ST comes in sizes small – 5XL for £99.99. Matching trousers sell for £79.99, so a complete suit is only £180.

Blade commuting jacket when size matters, the Blade has it covered. Produced in sizes from small to 12XL (that’s correct, twelve) this waterproof textile jacket has CE protectors at shoulders and elbow, four external pockets and reflective detailing. It sells for £79.99.

Proton sport gloves  this sport-style glove is manufactured using full-grain leather, has a hard knuckle and reinforced palm/little finger. In Black and Black/White for £39.99 from small – 5XL.

Radar short gloves designed to complement the Coolflow ST mesh suit and Alpine jacket, the short cuff Radar gloves are made from leather/textile, with hard knuckles and grip panels on the palms. In Black and Black/Stone, sizes small – 2 XL for £29.99.

Call 0117 971 9200 or visit www.thekeycollection.com for details

KEiS Remote Heat Controller

The system consists of two parts: a receiver, which is attached to the heated garment, and a transmitter, which can be mounted on the handlebars or suitable flat surface (e.g. fairing panel). They communicate wirelessly, so there’s no routing of cables or fiddly fixings.

Both the transmitter and receiver can be used to control the temperature of the chosen garment. Each one features simple, one-button operation and LED confirmation, so the rider can set their comfort level quickly and easily, while staying focussed on the road ahead. Offering three heat levels, riders can adjust the setting to suit the conditions.

The Remote Heat Controller costs £59.99 (including VAT) and is suitable for use with all KEiS garments (except those with an existing integral controller). It is weather resistant and comes with built-in current overload protection.

For further info and details of the complete KEiS range of heated clothing and accessories, call 01256 704909 or visit: www.keisapparel.co.uk

Notes: KEiS has enjoyed an average annual growth of 30% since 2011 and is now the UK’s best-selling brand of heated clothing

Alpinestars – Stella Bogotà Drystar Pants

Designed for a fully optimized women’s fit the Stella Bogota Jacket incorporates Alpinestars exclusive DRYSTAR® membrane for 100% waterproofing. With added CE-certified protection in strategic areas and strategically positioned air vents these pants can adapt to all weather conditions and are fully compatible with the Stella Bogota DRYSTAR® Jacket and other Alpinestars jackets.

Suggested retail price – € 199.95 Euro / £ 189.99 Sterling

Size: S-2XL

STELLA BOGOTA DRYSTAR® PANTS KEY FEATURES:

  • Anatomically shaped for female-specific
  • Advanced, reinforced poly-fabric textile construction incorporating Alpinestars exclusive DRYSTAR® membrane for excellent all- weather
  • Removable long thermal liner ensures pant versatility and comfort in cold and hot
  • Hip compartments with ergonomically shaped PE protective
  • Pre-contoured leg construction with accordion stretch panels around crotch and back of knees for improved riding performance.
  • Impact protection provided with removable CE-certified Bio-Armor knee
  • Reinforced polymer-printed texturing in critical knee areas for added abrasion
  • Integrated reflective graphic details and logos improve rider visibility in varying light
  • Dual waist adjustment pull-tabs for highly customizable
  • Zippered air in-takes to control internal
  • Zippered, waterproof hand pockets, plus large zip front-thigh
  • Adjustable, removable braces improve comfort
  • Zippered and Velcro® leg cuff closure fits around a range of Alpinestars boot models.
  • Optimized for use with the Bogota DRYSTAR® Jacket and other Alpinestars jackets with internal waist connection

For more information visit: www.alpinestars.com

Alpinestars – Stella Bogotà Drystar Jacket

Perfectly designed and optimized for women touring riders, the Stella Bogota Jacket is lightweight and extremely comfortable, incorporating Alpinestars exclusive DRYSTAR® 100% waterproof membrane to provide superb protection against the elements. Highly configurable with innovative airflow systems this jacket also incorporates class-leading CE-certified protectors on the knee and elbows.

Suggested retail price – € 279.95 Euro / £ 259.99 Sterling

Size: S-2XL

STELLA BOGOTA DRYSTAR® JACKET KEY FEATURES:

  • Anatomically shaped for female-specific
  • Multi-material construction with a highly abrasion and tear resistant poly-fabric main shell and multi-panel mesh
  • Rip-stop reinforcement in key impact areas on the shoulders and arms for durability and abrasion resistance.
  • Removable and interchangeable waterproof and breathable DRYSTAR® full liner with taped seams to ensure long term water-repelling
  • Long thermal liner ensures jacket versatility and comfort in cold and hot conditions and can be fully removed with zipper connection and integrated stretch comfort
  • Removable CE-certified Bio-Armor shoulder and elbow protection for superb impact
  • Chest and back pad compartments with PE padding (Alpinestars Bionic chest pads and Back Armor available as accessory upgrade).
  • Anatomical, pre-curved sleeve design incorporate Velcro® volume control adjustment straps for improved comfort, fine-tuning adjustment of garment and to help keep elbow protections in
  • Jet Ventilation System (JVS): strategically positioned zippered air intakes on torso with rear air exhaust vent on upper back for cooling performance on long
  • Climate Control System (CCS) on sleeves incorporates mesh gussets and zipper closures for improved levels of ventilation
  • Four external front pockets for convenient storage, including two waterproof pockets and two large cargo pockets, plus external large rear utility Internal pockets are waterproof and zippered for peace-of-mind closure.
  • Collar construction incorporates comfort lining and features Velcro® closure and strap garage to allow collar to be securely kept in place while
  • Fine-tuned fit afforded by D-ring waist adjustment for a secure, personalized fit while
  • Extended profile lower back for riding comfort for extra protection in the lumbar
  • Reflective detailing on front and back improves rider visibility.
  • Two internal waist connection zippers (on main shell and on DRYSTAR membrane) for attachment to Alpinestars riding pants.
  • Premium YKK zips used
  • Non-aggressive micro-Velcro® used throughout the

For more information visit: www.alpinestars.com

NEW Knox Cold Killers Ladies Sport Top

Completely redesigned for 2015, the Knox Cold Killers Ladies Sport Top features new fabrics both inside and out, making it even more versatile for women with an active lifestyle who need to eliminate wind chill.

Made from Softshell, a three-layer laminate, the Ladies Sport Top has a soft and plush fur-like Velboa lining, while the outer layer is a soft and stretchy herringbone weave material for all-round flexibility and comfort. Sandwiched between the two is a new high performance 10k/10k membrane that sits in the middle, providing a barrier against the wind and cold.

The 10k/10k membrane is also water-repellent and breathable. Combined with the Sport Top’s 3D fleece back section, it helps prevent overheating during activities.

Light, thin and with a tailored fit, the Sport Top sits neatly under outerwear – for motorcycling, hiking, running or cycling – without affecting freedom of movement. A full length YKK zipper and fingerless hand-warmers top off the impressive specification and the Sport Top is fully machine washable and quick-drying, so it is easy to care for.

The Knox Cold Killers Ladies Sport Top is available in sizes XS-XL (UK 8-18) at £59.99 including VAT. Matching trousers, socks, gloves, neckwarmers and balaclavas are also available.

For more information contact Knox: +44 1900 825825 or visit www.planet-knox.com

Tissot launch Official MotoGP™ watch collection for 2015

During the season-concluding Grand Prix last weekend in Valencia, Spain, Tissot held an event to present the 2015 Official MotoGP™ watch collection in the presence of Mr. Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports, as well as its MotoGP™ ambassadors.

François Thiébaud, President of Tissot, was proud to present Mr. Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports with next year’s Official MotoGP™ Collection, which comprises two Tissot T-Race MotoGP™ Limited Edition 2015 watches; one mechanical piece limited to 3333 pieces, the other powered by a quartz movement, produced in a series of 8,888 pieces.

French model Laury Thilleman was also a welcome guest at the presentation, as Nicky Hayden, Stefan Bradl and Thomas Lüthi received their personalised limited edition watches that each reflect a part of their personalities and strengths. These limited edition pieces come in a stylish helmet box worthy of a true collector’s item.

Mr. François Thiébaud, President of Tissot said “Tissot is proud of its strong association with MotoGP™. The innovative and dynamic nature of the sport matches Tissot’s spirit perfectly. We both strive to enhance technology to provide better performances time after time. The latest exclusive timepiece dedicated to MotoGP, not only celebrates this alliance through the motorbike features such as the break-disc bezel, but also a precision that matches that of our timekeeping. As the sport evolves and timing gets tougher, we keep up-to-date with all the latest technologies to provide the utmost accuracy as does everyone involved in MotoGP™ races.”

Mr. Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports, commented, “Tissot is one of our most trusted and long term partners of the MotoGP™ World Championship and once again they have produced an exclusive range of watches which perfectly match the precision and cutting edge nature of Grand Prix racing. We are delighted to see the new models and we are sure that our fans throughout the world will be quick to embrace next year’s Official MotoGP™ watch collection.”

RST Safety Jacket

Now the sun is setting earlier you need to make sure you can be seen in the dark!

Designed to be worn over any RST garment

Using Hi-Vis fluo fabric combined with large Hi Viz reflective panels you’re guaranteed to stand out!

Price: £39.99

Size: S-2XL.

RST Pro-Series Paragon IV Jacket Jean

RST PRO SERIES PARAGON IV JACKET / JEAN

If your looking for a Jacket and Jean for winter riding, then look no further!

With a Sinaqua waterproof breathable membrane and a removable quilted full length thermal lining, reflective panels and piping for maximum visibility to road users in the dark, and a removeable throat coar ro make this jacket and Jean combination are ready for the harshest conditions.

Price: Jacket £199.99

Jean: £159.99

Available sizes: Jacket 40/S-54/5XL Jean: 30/S-40/3XL (Short Leg 30/S-44/5XL).

More info here RST Motodirect

Alpinestars Launches Tech-Air™Street Airbag System

Tech-Air™ is the world’s first self-contained airbag system that independently functions without the need for sensors to be installed on the bike and the subsequent need to link a specific motorcycle to the Tech-Air™ street airbag system used by the rider. This means that Tech-Air™ offers the freedom to ride any bike on any surface at any time.

Offering instantaneous, high-pressure inflatable protection the Tech-Air™ street airbag system gives the rider comprehensive protection in a crash by covering the full back, shoulders, kidney areas and chest.

The Tech-Air™ street airbag system is incorporated into a specially designed protection vest, which is then attached within and used in conjunction with a compatible outer jacket. For the initial airbag launch offering there are two jacket models available – an all-weather touring jacket and a summer street riding jacket – allowing the Tech-Air™ System to be used, interchangeably, in all weather conditions.

The benefits of the system are:

· Versatility: Alpinestars’ Tech-Air™ street airbag system can be used with any type of motorcycle or scooter, allowing the rider to easily switch between bikes without reconfiguring or reinitializing the bike-to-rider set-up. The system is completely housed within the jacket and is self-contained, requiring no pre-configuration and is immediately ready for use. As a result, no sensors or equipment needs to be installed on the motorcycle and no time is wasted in setting up electronic pairing between rider and/or passenger and motorcycle.
· Any Type of Riding: Extensive research and testing has shown that a rider’s body remains relatively stable, regardless of terrain, until the point when an accident develops. The Tech-Air™ software algorithm is formulated to predict the impact, ensuring the airbag is deployed before the rider hits an obstacle. Therefore, by situating the sensors close to the rider’s body instead of on the bike, Alpinestars’ Tech-Air™ can be used both on road or for off road adventure touring, and is equally effective on all types of terrain. There is no need to deactivate the system if leaving the road for off-road trails or to stop in between to change settings. Changing surfaces while adventure riding therefore presents no problem.
· Critical Protection Coverage: The Tech-Air™ street airbag system offers comprehensive upper body protection including back, shoulders, kidney area and chest, all of the most exposed areas during a street crash.
· Independent: By incorporating its sensors close to the rider’s body Alpinestars’ Tech-Air™ street airbag system activates without the need for a triggering wireless signal to be sent from the bike.
· All-Weather Riding: The electronic unit is protected by a durable and water-resistant casing which, when worn under a compatible outer jacket, means the airbag system is fully weatherproof.
· No Installation: Tech-Air™ has no installation-to-bike requirements and subsequent cost and time-delay issue, eliminating the need for the bike to be specially fitted with sensors. With no equipment to be installed on the bike, the Tech-Air™ System is compatible with ANY motorcycle or scooter, regardless of make, age or type.

UNSURPASSED R&D AND PERFORMANCE
Following a decade of intensive research, development, hundreds of thousands of miles of road testing, a multitude of computer simulations and multiple full scale crash tests, the Tech-Air™ street airbag system typically detects an impact between 30-60 milliseconds (depending on accident type). Once fired Tech-Air™ will fully inflate in 25 milliseconds.

The Tech-Air™ street airbag system uses a sophisticated algorithm specifically developed for street riding to detect imminent danger with the greatest precision. Using Alpinestars’ exclusive custom analysis software the algorithm of Tech-Air™ has been optimized to detect crash impacts not only while riding but also in situations of loss of control, including when riding off road. This has been possible because Tech-Air™ shares common DNA in the algorithm from the Tech-Air™ race airbag system that features accident prediction and detects low-side crashes as well as high-sides for top MotoGP riders such as Marc Marquez, Jorge Lorenzo and Dani Pedrosa.

Additionally, Tech-Air™ provides protection when the rider is stationary, for example, a rear impact while waiting at traffic lights.

INNOVATIVE CONSTRUCTION
The Tech-Air™ street airbag is securely integrated into a removable and interchangeable breathable mesh vest that is worn under a compatible outer jacket. This allows for greater protection to the airbag system and componentry, increasing its lifespan and allowing the system to be used interchangeably with the compatible jacket of choice for the motorcycle type and weather outlook. For Tech-Air™ two compatible jacket models are available initially, the Valparaiso For Tech-Air™ and the Viper For Tech-Air™ textile jackets. The compatible outer jacket, which is designed to work with the airbag system, incorporates CE certified shoulder and elbow protection to further ramp its overall protective qualities. This outer jacket can be used as a stand-alone, without the Tech-Air™ System fitted internally.

PIECE-OF-MIND CONVENIENCE
The Tech-Air™ System is powered by a battery pack which offers over 25 hours of continuous use with one hour’s charging ensuring four hours of riding time. The system is activated simply by zipping up the jacket and riders can ensure the system is activated by checking the LED display located on the left sleeve. This feature is highly convenient, meaning riders can easily arm the airbag system without the need to locate a switch and can do so wearing gloves.

The system is CE certified to the PPE directive (EN1621-4 for impact protection) as well as the pyrotechnic articles directive, to assure the safety and stability of the incorporated inflators. This also means that the airbag system can be safely and legally transported by car, ship, train and airplane, allowing riders the freedom to use their Tech-Air™ with rental bikes on their dream adventure touring holiday.

Tech-Air™ is the only airbag protection system conceived for the free spirit of motorcycling. No matter what bike you are riding and no matter the road surface and riding environment you experience – Alpinestars’ Tech-Air™ is always there to protect.

New Knox Meta-Sys is lighter and stronger

Launched in 2012 and featuring all-new dual-compound hybrid technology, a unique four-plate structure, the Knox Meta-Sys back protector set new standards of protection and flexibility. Updated and improved for 2015, the new Meta-Sys offers more protection, less weight and is fully certified to the highest level of the latest CE standard.

The Meta-Sys is constructed using a ’hard’ polypropylene outer shell to dissipate impact, combined with a lightweight Nitrex inner layer for superior energy absorption and protection against multiple impacts. It exceeds Level 2 of the tough new EN 1621-2:2014 back protector standard; the mean transmitted force is less than 6kN in each of the 10 tests. In fact some tests showed just 3kN. The Meta-Sys offers the same level of protection in extreme temperatures, ranging from -20 to +40C, something that few other protectors achieve.

This increased protection hasn’t come at the expense of weight; the 2015 Meta-Sys weighs just 1.08kg. Lighter than most full carbon motorcycle helmets.

Constructed in four sections that move independently, the Meta-Sys allows unrestricted movement and flexibility. It automatically lengthens and shortens as the rider bends and straightens, for complete coverage and comfort, and comes in three torso lengths for optimum fit.

The Meta-Sys is available from all authorised Knox retailers at £129.99 (RRP including VAT). See it on the Knox stand at Motorcycle Live this November, (3C10).

For more information contact Knox: +44 1900 825825 or visit www.planet-knox.com

Notes

EN 1621-2:2014 assesses the performance of protective devices by measuring the force transmitted through it when impacted by a falling mass of 5kg. Protectors subjected to the test are deemed to conform to the standard if the average transmitted force of 10 tests is less than 18 kN for Level 1 protectors and 9 kN for Level 2.

All Knox back protectors have a 5 year service life. This means the materials used in the products will not naturally degrade over this time span. This excludes accident damage, general wear and tear, exposure to extreme conditions or substances that may cause adverse effects (petrol, oil, etc).

Meta-Sys Additional features

Air induction system for ventilation / Multi adjustment system on the waist for a tailored fit / Extra side adjustment straps give a more secure fit against the spine / Quick release soft shoulder straps can cross over for increased comfort / Optional Knox CE Approved Chest protector

KEiS X900 Heated Outer Gloves – wherever, whenever

Updated for the 2014/15 winter season, X900 Dual Control Heated Outer Gloves from KEiS now include the option to power their heated panels from rechargeable battery packs, which tuck away neatly into pockets in each cuff. This means that heat is on tap wherever you are, whenever you need it – riding, skiing or fishing.

The Dual-Power X900 gloves can also be powered direct from the bike’s battery.

Like the full range of KEiS heated clothing, X900 gloves feature Micro Alloy-Fibre Technology, which provides reliable and even heat, whilst still allowing easy movement and feel; crucial for delicate operation of the controls during winter riding conditions. The heat is controlled by a button on the back of each glove, so the rider can tailor the temperature whilst on the move.

A waterproof, breathable textile shell and genuine leather palm reinforcement tops off the specification.

The X900s come with a fused supply lead for connection direct to a 12-volt vehicle battery. A ‘cigarette lighter’ adaptor is also available for vehicles fitted with a power socket, and current draw is just 1.0 amps, so they won’t put undue stress on the bike’s battery and charging system.

KEiS X900 Dual Control Heated Outer Gloves are available in unisex sizes XS-XXL, at £130- including VAT, and come complete with all required wiring and instructions. Optional KEiS X900 Battery Packs and Charger sell for £70-. For further info and details of the complete KEiS range, call 01256 704909 or visit: www.keisapparel.co.uk

Notes: KEiS has enjoyed an average annual growth of 30% since 2011 and is now the UK’s best-selling brand of heated clothing.

New Knox Meta-Sys is lighter and stronger

Launched in 2012 and featuring all-new dual-compound hybrid technology, a unique four-plate structure, the Knox Meta-Sys back protector set new standards of protection and flexibility. Updated and improved for 2015, the new Meta-Sys offers more protection, less weight and is fully certified to the highest level of the latest CE standard.

The Meta-Sys is constructed using a ’hard’ polypropylene outer shell to dissipate impact, combined with a lightweight Nitrex inner layer for superior energy absorption and protection against multiple impacts. It exceeds Level 2 of the tough new EN 1621-2:2014 back protector standard; the mean transmitted force is less than 6kN in each of the 10 tests. In fact some tests showed just 3kN. The Meta-Sys offers the same level of protection in extreme temperatures, ranging from -20 to +40C, something that few other protectors achieve.

This increased protection hasn’t come at the expense of weight; the 2015 Meta-Sys weighs just 1.08kg. Lighter than most full carbon motorcycle helmets.

Constructed in four sections that move independently, the Meta-Sys allows unrestricted movement and flexibility. It automatically lengthens and shortens as the rider bends and straightens, for complete coverage and comfort, and comes in three torso lengths for optimum fit.

The Meta-Sys is available from all authorised Knox retailers at £129.99 (RRP including VAT). See it on the Knox stand at Motorcycle Live this November, (3C10).

For more information contact Knox: +44 1900 825825 or visit www.planet-knox.com

Notes

EN 1621-2:2014 assesses the performance of protective devices by measuring the force transmitted through it when impacted by a falling mass of 5kg. Protectors subjected to the test are deemed to conform to the standard if the average transmitted force of 10 tests is less than 18 kN for Level 1 protectors and 9 kN for Level 2.

All Knox back protectors have a 5 year service life. This means the materials used in the products will not naturally degrade over this time span. This excludes accident damage, general wear and tear, exposure to extreme conditions or substances that may cause adverse effects (petrol, oil, etc).

Meta-Sys Additional features

Air induction system for ventilation / Multi adjustment system on the waist for a tailored fit / Extra side adjustment straps give a more secure fit against the spine / Quick release soft shoulder straps can cross over for increased comfort / Optional Knox CE Approved Chest protector

Pop up store gets wrapped for Christmas at Bluewater

Innovative and inspiring Sports Fashion accessory company BUFF® announce the grand opening of their new concept store in Bluewater, transforming the space into a visual feast for their first Christmas pop up store from November 1st.

This pioneering method reflects their recently opened Barcelona stores that are now allowing the customer to truly experience the BUFF® ethos. Although the company has had many pop up shops, these airport stores are revolutionising BUFF® through rebranding and truly embracing the company’s passion for quality products and exhilarating sports.

After 20 years experience in sports the BUFF® name has flourished with an obsession for creating headwear items that are versatile, functional and do not wear over time. These advancements in fabric technology have established a large sports fan base including James May and Long way down riders Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor.

“By collaborating with upcoming graphic design team ‘Original Creative Design’ we are having fun with the new ways we can echo our brand’s concept and personality” Says Managing Director

BUFF® pop up store will offer an array of Autumn/Winter 14/15 styles that for years have been tried and tested by athletic sponsors. This dedication creates a tailored product choice that customers adore. BUFF® isn’t afraid of exciting and modernising the outdoor sportswear industry through ventures such as these.

Kushitani: Suzuka 8-Hour Suit Available

Riders can own the same type of Kushitani one-piece leather race suit used to take victory in this year’s Suzuka 8 Hours motorcycle endurance event.

Takumi Takahashi was using the Kushitani Innovation suit when he took his second ever victory at the prestigious event in July as part of the MuSASHi RT HARC-PRO Honda team when he partnered with 2013 8 Hour winner, Leon Haslam, and the recently crowned World Supersport champion, Michael van der Mark.

The Innovation suit is a premier, GP-spec suit from the historic Japanese company and boasts a 1.5mm cowhide construction made from a breed of cows unique to Kushitani. Starting from £1649, the high specification leather race suit from Hamamatsu, Japan, is fully customisable in terms of sizing, colours and detailing. Riders can even choose an exact replica of what Takumi used when piloting his Fireblade to victory.

As Japanese ‘off the peg’ sizing differs radically to European sizing, Kushitani offers riders two options in order to get a suit that fits them perfectly; ‘Easy Order’ and ‘Full Custom Order’.

‘Easy Order’ represents 95% of the Japanese factory’s sales and is extremely simple way to get what is largely a bespoke suit. A downloadable pack is available from the website that contains a sizing chart, colour pallete and instructions on how to accurately get the 19 measurements required for a perfectly fitting suit. To get the fit as exact as possible, the level of detail goes as deep as stating the make and model of back protector used and what other personal preferences are wanted, such as ‘tight’ or ‘loose’ fit.

These details can either be emailed or posted back to Kushitani UK before it is sent to the factory in Japan, to be compared to the dimensions of a ‘stock’ suit. The customer then receives a CAD drawing of the actual suit in their colours and other requested details (name, badges, etc.) with a final quote of the delivered price. At this point the potential customer can approve the suit, change the design or cancel the order.

The ‘Full Custom Order’ option adds on from ‘Easy Order’, but in this case every panel is made specifically for the customers size.

Takumi was also using the range-topping Kushitani GPR-6 (£189.99) that were developed in MotoGP and the Suzuki 8-Hours. The GPR-6 glove gets its name from having six layers of outer protection and is the highest specification glove from Kushitani, focusing on maximum protection and comfort for riders who seek to get the most from their machines.

For more information visit www.kushitani-uk.co.uk or call 01205 820114

New Duchinni D305 Moto X Helmet

Duchinni’s new D305 Moto X is aimed at road riders who want a motocross-style helmet with good quality fit, features and finish for less that £100.

Approved to the ECE22.05 standard, the D305 is road legal and features a tough ABS outer shell with added UV protection. An adjustable, quick-release seat-belt style buckle keeps it firmly in place.

Vents on the crown, chin bar and at the rear allow airflow around the head and face and the D305’s lining can be completely removed for washing, to help keep it fresh and bacteria-free.

An extra-wide aperture and removable nose guard enable motocross goggles to be worn, if required, and also to give increased peripheral vision. The adjustable and lockable peak allows riders to select the most suitable position to shade their eyes from the sun’s glare, whatever the time of day or season.

Available in sizes XS-XL in a choice of Black/White and White/Black, the Duchinni D305 Moto X sells for £79.99. Call The Key Collection on 0117 971 9200 or visit www.thekeycollection.co.uk

Take off this winter with Weise Runway gloves

New from Weise, Runway gloves combine the latest technological materials to ensure hands stay warm and dry throughout the winter.

The outer shell of the Runway is made from Nyspan, a 4-way stretch fabric that allows freedom of movement, while the palm and fingers are leather, which is twin-layered over impact points.

Beneath the outer shell is a McTEX waterproof, windproof and breathable lining, plus a THINSULATE 200 gram lining to the back of hand for maximum insulation. However, the palm is insulated with a 60 gram THINSULATE lining, giving the wearer better feel for the motorcycle’s controls.

The inner linings are held in place with the McFIT system, which attaches them without stitching, helping them stay firmly in place without uncomfortable seams, twisting or pulling free.

Secured with a Velcro retained strap to the wrist, the Runway has an inner storm cuff and a pull cord to outer cuff to protect against water running down the sleeve and into the glove.

Weise Runway gloves come in sizes S – 3XL and retail for £69.99 including VAT.

See the complete range of Weise gloves at www.thekeycollection.co.uk (telephone 0117 971 9200)

New luxury fabric for 2015 Knox Cold Killers

Knox Cold Killers windproof clothing has been completely redesigned for 2015, with a luxurious fabric on the inside, a restyled exterior and new minimalist branding.

Soft and plush Velboa, a low pile fur-like material, gives the interior a luxurious feel, while the stretchy exterior combines soft shell and herringbone weave fabrics for a contemporary look. A high performance 10k/10k membrane is sandwiched between the fabrics to provide a complete barrier against the wind and cold, combined with excellent breathability.

Within the collection are two styles of windproof neck tubes, a balaclava, inner gloves and cosy socks, plus two different types of jackets and sport pants, created for men and women.

Designed to be worn in everyday life by people with an active lifestyle, Knox Cold Killers looks and feels different to other technical mid-layers and is ideally suited to cold or windy days.

The collection will be available to buy in UK stores and online at the end of October 2014. See the 2015 Knox Cold Killers collection at Intermot, Cologne (Hall 08.1, stand A065) and Motorcycle Live, NEC (Hall 3, Stand 3C10)

www.planet-knox.com/coldkillers

Retail prices start from £19.99 for accessories; the Sport Top is £59.99 and matching Sport Pants £49.99; the Wind Buddy jacket is £79.99. All prices include VAT at the current rate.

For more information please contact Knox: +44 1900 825825 or email sales@planet-knox.com