Category Archives: Apparel

Apparel

Kushitani Covers Linsdell For 2014

Olie Linsdell supported by Kushitani UK in Road Racing and Classic assault

  • Linsdell, 26, will be protected with Kushitani leather suits and gloves in his 2014 racing campaign
  • Bedford-based rider was winner of the 2013 500cc Classic TT
  • Linsdell will race in suits based on the ‘Elevation’ model
  • Kushitani history with the TT stretches back to 1963 with first and only ever Japanese TT winner, Mitsuo Itoh

Kushitani UK is pleased to announce that Olie Linsdell has become its first supported rider for the 2014 racing season.

The 26-year old, winner of the 2013 500cc Classic TT, will wear custom versions of the Elevation (from £1879) suit along with the GPR-6 gloves as he prepares for a season spent battling on the roads and short circuits on both modern and classic machinery.

Kushitani became officially available for the first time in the UK this past September, initially offering its leather race suits through a fully customisable service and then followed with a range of gloves.

Steeped in history, the Japanese leather brand is well know for its involvement with some of the leading riders in Grand Prix and Superbike racing over the years, but Road Racing and the Isle of Man TT has a special place in the heart of the Hamamatsu-based company. In 1963, factory Suzuki rider Mitsuo Itoh, who in 1963 became the first and only Japanese rider to win an Isle of Man TT race and he was wearing Kushitani leathers.

Olie Linsdell said: “Kushitani is such an iconic brand – especially at the TT, where they supported Joey Dunlop among many other high profile riders. To come back to the TT as the first Kushitani supported rider since Joey is a huge honour. The quality of the product is fantastic; it really is a cut above the rest. I can’t wait for the season to start.”

Kushitani UK Sales Director, Jonny King, said: “We are extremely pleased to have reached a deal with Olie Linsdell for the 2014 season. Without a doubt, Olie is one of Road Racing’s most exciting prospects but it isn’t just results we have been impressed with; it’s his professionalism and attitude.

“Part of bringing Kushitani back to the UK was to reinforce the core values of this company and regain its reputation. The company has a long history with Road Racing and the Factory is completely behind this alliance.”

For news and more information on Kushitani products in the United Kingdom, visit www.kushitani-uk.co.uk or call 01205 820114.

Follow Olie on Twitter @Olie_Linsdell

Action photo – Russell Lee – Sports Pics

SPIDI

Spidi R/T Leather Jacket

Spidi R/T is a sport jacket without compromise that Spidi designed and conceived in its Safety Lab, taking full inspiration from the racing expertise. R/T is tailored with a 1.2mm Italian cowhide and features a high surface of elastic non- resistance fabrics for the best comfort.

Technical features:

– Full grain Italian cowhide leather (1,2mm thickness)

– Removable thermal insulating vest (80 gr/sqm)

– Mesh inner lining

– Aerodynamic hump

– EN 1621-1 certified Forcetech protectors on shoulders and elbows

– Warrior Back Protector certified EN 1621-2 Lev.1 or Lev.2 arrangement

– Warrior Chest Protector certified prEN 1621-3 arrangement

– Flex Tenax areas for perfect fitting

– Perimetric fastening with Spidi trousers

– Clip stop to join the trousers

– Neoprene inserts on neck area

– Dynamic vents on shoulders

Weise

Weise line-up for 2014

Weise clothing has introduced several new lines for 2014, including a highly specified all-season touring jacket, a neon yellow textile jacket for riders who want to stand out and an armoured fashion jacket for women. Plus waterproof sport gloves too.

Designed to cope with British weather’s unpredictable seasons, the BORA jacket has a reliable ISOTEX waterproof/breathable drop lining and removable 140-gram thermal quilted lining to handle rain and cold. Red detailing highlights this jacket’s technical features, such as the YKK® main central zipper that has a Velcro® and popper retained storm flap for total weather protection. Also picked out in red are the four external waterproof pockets and large rear pocket. Zipped ventilation on the chest, lower arms and torso can be opened up in hot conditions and warm air can escape through the exhaust vent across the back. CE approved armour is fitted to shoulders, elbow and back. The Weise BORA is produced in sizes SM–5XL in gun/red and retails for £239.99 (including VAT).

Featuring neon yellow panels and detailing, the updated HORNET II jacket is aimed at riders who want to stand out from the traffic and is enhanced with reflective panels to chest, back and lower arm for added night-time visibility. Made from tough 600 denier fabric, the HORNET II features CE approved armour to shoulders, elbow and back. Like the BORA, it features a waterproof and breathable lining, storm-flap closure and removable 140-gram quilted thermal lining. Zipped ventilation to chest and lower arms is easy to operate, even with gloved hands, and an exhaust vent is provided across the back, while two chest pockets double as additional vents. There are two waterproof pockets at the waist plus a large rear pocket with zipper closure. The Hornet II comes in sizes SM-5XL, priced at £189.99.

With its quilted outer construction, the ASCOT looks like a ladies fashion jacket on the outside, but on the inside there is removable CE approved armour at shoulders, elbow and back as well as a detachable 80-gram quilted lining with sumptuous fleece backing, making this a practical and stylish riding jacket. Reliable YKK gold-coloured zippers feature throughout the ASCOT, which also has three external and two internal pockets. Available in sizes 8-18 in black, the ASCOT costs £149.99.

Also new for 2014, SHARK WP gloves combine sport specification with McTex waterproof, windproof and breathable lining and the patented McFit technology fixture system that secures the inner lining without stitching so it won’t twist uncomfortably or pull free. Made from full grain leather, the SHARK WP gloves have the Knox SPS scaphoid protection system on the palms and integrated TPU reinforcement over the knuckles and fingers. A leather ‘bridge’ connects the ring and little fingers to prevent them bending apart in an accident, while stretch panels to base of thumb and top of hand aid fit and flexibility. The gloves are held securely in place by an adjustable Velcro® retained strap on the wrist and cuff. Available in sizes Sm-3XL at £109.99.

For details of Weise stockists visit www.thekeycollection.co.uk or call 0117 971 9200.

Knox

Knox Handroid Gloves Now CE Approved

Knox Handroid, has achieved full CE approval for 2014.  Independently tested and certified to the latest European standard prEN13594 2012 [“Protective gloves for motorcycle riders”], the Handroid is one of only a handful of gloves the meet the rigorous demands. To make the grade, Handroid had to pass no less than 15 different tests, including;

> Abrasion resistance
> Cut resistance
> Tear strength
> Seam strength
> Impact resistance
> Gloves are also tested for dexterity, to ensure that the rider can still operate controls easily while wearing them, as well as restraint, so they won’t fly off in an accident. Made from Japanese race leather, with Kangaroo palms and the additional benefit of Knox SPS ‘sliders’, both the Handroid and short-cuff Handroid Pod passed all tests with flying colours.

“There are many gloves appearing with CE labels, but hardly any that meet the toughest standard for motorcycle riders. Being approved to EN13594 proves that Handroid not only have the most advanced specification, but also offer real protection too” says Knox founder Geoff Travell.

Handroid are available in Black, Black/White or White/Black Sizes S-XXL, at a retail price of RRP of £169.99 including VAT.  Call 01900 825825 or visit www.knox–amour.co.uk for details.

Notes:
i. Knox Scaphoid Protection System (SPS) is Patent protected under EU registered Patent No:EP1594378
ii. The new version of prEN 13594:2012 will replace the original EN 13594:2002 and widens its application to include not only gloves for professional use, but also all those used in motorcycle sports

Apparel

Stylish New Roadster ‘Hoodie’ Jacket Launches Bull-It Jeans 2014 Product Range

Bull-it Jeans, the makers of the world’s first CE approved Level 2 motorcycle jeans, have unveiled their debut 2014 product, the innovative and stylish Roadster Jacket. The ‘hoodie’ style jacket has been specifically designed to appeal to bikers, and features Covec Laser 4 protection areas in the arms, shoulders and sides of the jacket.

The fashionable hoodie design appeals to a wide variety of motorcyclists, allowing them to wear the Roadster Jacket in comfort both on the bike and out socially, without compromising on riding safety. The jacket features Covec Laser 4 protection in the arms, shoulders and sides, offering an impact abrasion resistance in excess of six seconds when tested to CE 13595-1. Covec is a unique protective material based on a Liquid Crystal Polymer which offers higher abrasion, cut and impact resistance to ensure the Roadster Jacket is up to six times stronger than normal textile motorcycle jackets.

In addition, the product also features CE armour in the shoulders and elbows along with a foam back pad. As with all Bull-it Covec lined products, the jacket provides a thermal barrier to keep the user warm in the winter, and cool in the summer. The inner mesh layer also ensures moisture, such as sweat, is drawn away from your skin.

Bull-it Jeans owner Keith Bloxsome commented, “We are really excited to be announcing the Roadster Jacket as the first part of our 2014 product range, having already enjoyed extremely positive feedback from our testers. The trick new hoodie jacket has been designed specifically with bikers in mind, regardless of the machine they ride. It’s not just fashionable, it’s also safe – featuring the same unique Covec material found in our jeans, the Roadster Jacket is stronger than standard textile motorcycle jackets”

The Roadster Jacket features belt loops in the lower inside back, allowing you to securely fasten the jacket to any pair of jeans. The jacket will retail at £179.99 from all Bull-it stockists.

For more information about Bull-it Jeans visit www.bull-it.com

Alpinestars

Alpinestars – Celsius Tech Heated Gloves

A highly durable and comfortable glove incorporating Alpinestars’ waterproof and breathable DRYSTAR® membrane, the Celsius Heated Glove is the ultimate in cold weather touring glove technology. Alpinestars’ active heating system is powered in conjunction with the bike’s battery and ensures consistent heating over the whole hand.

SIZE: S – 3XL

Suggested retail price – € 179.95 Euro / £ 149.99 Sterling

Construction

  • The Celsius Heated Glove features Alpinestars’ active heating technology, ensuring controlled, consistent, heating over the whole hand. Alpinestars’ heating technology wraps an ultra-thin and flexible warming layer over the wrist and hand ensuring critical comfort for mile after mile in the winter cold.
  • Leather and highly-abrasion resistant textile construction with synthetic suede reinforcement for enhanced durability and abrasion resistance.
  • Alpinestars’ exclusive DRYSTAR® waterproof and breathable membrane keeps the hands comfortably dry in all weather conditions.

Protection

  • Over-molded knuckle armor grants impact protection in a critical area.
  • Additional impact protection provided by padded foam located on top of the fingers and thumb.
  • Reinforced and padded landing zones and padded wrist reinforcement.
  • High finger-bridge helps prevent excessive displacement of the 3rd and 4th fingers when sliding during an accident.
  • Reflective detailing on cuff, wrists and fingers enhances rider visibility in poor light conditions.

 Heat, comfort and convenience

  • Includes a long Y-splitter cable that enables integration with the Tech Heated vest.
  • Extensive accordion stretch flex insert across thumb and top of hand for increased maneuverability and comfort.
  • Accordion flex zone on first two fingers offer improved flexibility on bike controls.
  • Dual Velcro® wrist closure system, plus elasticated wrist ensures fully adjustable, weather-tight and secure closure.

For more information visit: www.alpinestars.com

Alpinestars

Alpinestars – S-MX 6 Boots

A performance boot for both track and street that is anatomically profiled and packed with innovative features, the S-MX 6 incorporates the latest advancements in Alpinestars’ performance footwear design and development. Every component on the CE certified S-MX 6 has been carefully designed to give you a crucial performance edge or keep you on the track for longer, in the form of protection innovations, improved ergonomics and comfort features.

Size: 36 – 50 EUR

S-MX 6 Boots (suggested retail price – € 219.95 Euro / £ 189.99 Sterling)

  • Main upper material constructed from advanced microfiber for durability and repeated abrasion resistance.
  • Ergonomic new last for forefoot streamlining to enable greater control of the bike’s controls and for superior, wide-ranging foot profile, fit and comfort.
  • Alpinestars’ innovative TPU lateral ankle brace protection provides a biomechanical support between lateral top calf/shin and ankle and offers improved structural integrity, protection against impact shocks, repeated abrasion resistance and flex support.
  • Alpinestars’ new and exclusive compound rubber sole promotes improved feel and grip, water dispersion and durability.
  • Air vents on the heel counter and shin plate plus breathable mesh inserts (vented version only) improve comfort and reduce fatigue on short and long rides.
  • High modulus TPU injected shin guard, calf protector, heel counter, shift pad and toe slider for improved shock protection and durability.
  • Double density ankle protector on medial side layered under the upper offers protective performance in key area.
  • Integrated, replaceable bi-injected TPU slider features new easy screw fixing concept for quicker and easier replacement.
  • Innovative instep and Achilles accordion flex zone construction for superior comfort, extension, control and support.
  • Internal insole with the shank reinforcement integrated for added support to the arch area and foot protection.
  • Medial side entry opening/closure system features elastic-mounted zipper with wide Velcro® closure for flexibility and secure fit. The aperture opening is large to promote easier in/out.
  • Internal toe box protection is layered under the upper for durability, improved feel and performance.
  • Breathable textile interior lining features anti-sliding suede reinforcement on heel area help keep foot in position while riding.
  • New, dual compound removable anatomic footbed includes EVA and Lycra for performance, comfort and support.
  • The S-MX 6 boot is CE certified.

For more information visit: www.alpinestars.com

Weise

HOT PANTS: Keis X2 Heated Trousers

New from Keis, the UK’s leading heated clothing specialist, the X2 trousers deliver 39 watts of heat through strategically positioned panels.

Designed to be worn under leather or textile motorcycle clothing, the Keis trousers are manufactured from breathable soft-shell material, with lightweight rear panels for a relaxed fit.

The heated panels use micro alloy element technology, which is not only efficient and reliable but is also washable. Current draw is a modest 3.25 amps, which will not tax the charging system on most modern motorcycles.

Like all Keis garments, the X2 trousers come with a fused supply lead so that they can be powered direct from the 12-volt battery on the motorcycle. Alternatively, an adaptor is available to power the trousers via a cigarette lighter type socket. It is also possible to ‘daisy chain’ the power supply via the Keis X10/X20 heated vests or the X25 jacket. There are dedicated zipped pockets to keep the cables neatly and conveniently stored while in use.

Retailing for £139.99 including VAT, Keis X2 heated trousers are produced in sizes 28″-42″ waist (XXS – 3XL) and come complete with all required wiring and full easy to follow instructions.

Call 01256 704909 or visit www.keisapparel.co.uk.

Alpinestars

Alpinestars – T-GP Pro Jacket

A street-styled jacket the T-GP Pro has a main shell constructed from a reinforced poly-fabric textile for excellent tear and abrasion resistance. Incorporating Alpinestars’ Climate Control System (CCS) and a 3D mesh lining, this jacket is highly breathable and ideal for long riding forays or short city trips. 

SIZE: S – 4XL

suggested retail price – € 229.95 Euro / £ 219.99 Sterling

T-G   P PRO JACKET KEY FEATURES:

  • Multi-material construction with an advanced poly-fabric textile main shell for excellent abrasion and tear resistance.
  • Outer shell is reinforced with PU for additional aqua-repellent performance.
  • Polyamide stretch panels on chest, back and sleeves for improved performance fit.
  • Back compartments supplied with replaceable poly-foam padding (CE-certified Bio-Armor back protector insert available as accessory).
  • Chest compartments come with replaceable poly-foam padding (Alpinestars Bionic chest pads available as accessory upgrade).
  • Removable CE-certified Bio Armor elbow and shoulder protectors.
  • Full, removable long sleeve 80g thermal liner for climate control features inner zippered wallet pocket.
  • Alpinestars Climate Control System (CCS) features zippered air-vents on shoulders and back to regulate internal temperature and promote airflow.
  • Integrated, 3D mesh on collar and cuffs for excellent breathability.
  • Pre-curved sleeves with accordion flex inserts on the elbows for improved comfort and performance fit.
  • External and internal zippered pockets for peace-of-mind closure.
  • Reflective detailing on back and arms for improved rider visibility.
  • Internal waist connection zipper to allow attachment to Alpinestars riding pants.
  • Cuff adjustment includes gusset, Velcro® and semi-auto locking zips for improved range of fit and comfort.
  • Elongated rear profiling, plus combined D-ring and Velcro® waist adjustment.

For more information visit: www.alpinestars.com

Knox

The New 2014 Collection From Knox is all About Rider Choice

In an ever changing world Knox believes that with so many new styles of bikes, riders demand more from the clothing that they choose to use and wear. While developing their 2014 collection, Knox decided to focus on wearable solutions and long service life. This means that the choice of protective products from Knox for 2014 gets ever wider and, not only is every garment much easier and more comfortable to wear, but all Knox back protectors also come with a 5 year service life, which is a similar lifespan to top of the range helmets, and not something that all protection brands offer.

Following the success of the award-winning Venture shirt, and the resulting Urbane version, Knox believe more riders are using this type of garment, particularly in the fast rising Adventure Bike market. Knox developed a more classically styled collection with much greater social appeal to fit the changing market, catering to a wider audience and crossing the challenging riding styles.

Whatever bike is ridden, in whatever environment, or whatever type of clothing is worn with it, there is a Knox product that will suit the rider’s needs. From single independent back protectors to protective gilets, vests, safety tops and shirts, shorts, chest guards, elbow or knee protectors, Knox have it covered.

Knox will be displaying the 2014 collection at Motorcycle Live, Stand G35 in Hall 2 or visit www.knox-armour.co.uk

Note: 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).

Apparel

Draggin jeans offer dogged protection

Designed for motorcyclists and tested on the tarmac, Draggin Jeans have been chosen to protect contestants from a pack of hounds on a new TV game show!

Premiered on ITV2, Release The Hounds sees three unsuspecting contestants enter a forest at dusk, in a quest to unlock chests full of prize money. In order to locate the keys and win, they must cross a field of crucified scarecrows, descend beneath the floorboards in a deserted cabin and read bedtime stories in the nursery from hell. Their ultimate challenge is to out-run a pack of hounds. If they manage to escape, the money belongs to them.

The producers chose Draggin for the contestants to wear because they needed jeans that were protective but looked like everyday clothing.  While the fit, cut and styling of Draggin looks like regular fashion jeans, their unique Kevlar/Dyneema lining offers class-leading abrasion resistance.

Draggin Jeans’ patented positioning system covers each of the primary contact points [backside, hips and knees] with an abrasion-resistant lining that is secured with heavy-duty stitching.  Soft, breathable, flexible and non-allergenic, the Draggin Jeans lining is knitted from a combination of Kevlar® and Dyneema®, the World’s Strongest Fibre™ – the same material fitted to their C-Evo jeans, which were the first ever denim jeans to pass the European standard for professional motorcycle clothing (EN13595).  Exclusively distributed in the UK by The Key Collection, for information call 0117 971 9200 or visit www.thekeycollection.co.uk.

BMW Motorrad, Dainese

Dainese and BMW together for the safety of motorcyclists

On Tuesday 5 November, at EICMA motorcycle show, BMW presented the DoubleR RaceAir, the BMW racing suit made using Dainese Racing technology.

This is the first product that the Munich-based company has introduced to the market after signing a cooperation agreement with Dainese to develop systems aimed at improving the passive safety of motorcyclists.

D-air is the outcome of a technological leap forward that breaks away from the traditional kind of standard protectors, introducing an intelligent platform capable of detecting accidents and intervening independently of the rider.

Bringing together the know-how and experience of the German company, a giant in the automotive industry, and the Molvena-based company, a leading world producer of technical clothing for motorcycle riders, will tangibly improve the safety of motorcyclists.

BMW’s next goal for 2015 is to launch D-air Street, the road air bag developed by Dainese, as OEM technology on their motorbikes.

The common goal of the the thethe Dainese and BMW is complete safety: formotorcyclists, vehicles and technical materials for clothing while raising the awarenessof motorcyclists via ongoing training programmes.

Knox

Knox Biomech – The Choice Of Champions

Knox re-engineered their Biomech gloves for 2013, adding the latest sports profile scaphoid protection sliders to the palm in response to input from development riders. Both Michael Dunlop and Michael Rutter chose the Biomech for their 2013 Isle of Man TT campaigns, covering 1698 racing miles (2735 km), taking five race wins and setting three new lap records between them.

“Truthfully the best I have ever used. Getting them back on post TT & have NO blisters for the first time” commented Rutter.

Michael Dunlop adds; “To win at the TT you need total concentration. The Biomechs are perfect! Great protection, comfort and fit; I don’t feel like I’ve got them on.”

Conceived as a sports touring glove, the Biomech has built up a loyal following among racers thanks to its exceptional levels of comfort, combined with high levels of protection – ideal for long distance races on public roads like the TT.

Manufactured from supple aniline leather with flexible and tear-resistant kangaroo hide on the palm,

which is overlaid with an Amara grip pad for improved control, the Biomech has ventilated panels between the fingers allow cooling air-flow. An opaque knuckle protector contains impact absorbing honeycomb gel, with an additional pad covering the metacarpal bones on the back of the hand. As well as the scaphoid protection sliders, there are also abrasion and cut resistant Superfabric® pads at the base of the little finger and on the thumbs.  Cuff sliders complete the all-round protection package.  Secured by the patented BOA closure system, the wearer dials in the precise amount of torque to hold the glove firmly in place and simply pulls the dial to release.

Available in updated black/white, red and blue colour options, in sizes XS-XXL, Biomech gloves sell for £129.99 (including VAT). Call 01900 825825 or visit www.knox-armour.co.uk

Knox

New Knox Orsa Leather Hand Armour

NEW for 2013, the ORSA Leather is a vented summer riding glove from the Knox Hand Armour range.

Made from soft but durable goatskin, the back of the hand is perforated for ventilation.  The knuckle area is shielded with impact-absorbing honeycomb Gel, backed with memory foam and encapsulated in a strong outer shell.

On the palm is the patented Knox Scaphoid Protection System (SPS), which is made up of two sliders that eliminate the grab effect that occurs when a leather palm makes contact with the road. Used in many top-of-the-range race gloves, SPS reduces the risk of hyper extension breaking the scaphoid bone in the wrist.

The fingers have wrap-round seamless ends for superior comfort and there are abrasion resistant sliders on the fingers too.

Secured with the unique low-profile BOA wrist closure system, with its “dialled in” micro adjustable fit, the ORSA are velcro-free.

Available in black in sizes S – XXL, ORSA Leather gloves sell for £79.99 including VAT.

For further information call 01900 825825 or visit www.knox–armour.co.uk