Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1517587
FEATURE I ALPINESTARS TECH-AIR OFF-ROAD SYSTEM P106 bladder storage pocket, and the base layer is washable, both great features for the off-road rider. There were two editors who, let's say, "fully tested" the system when they crashed during the launch. Both were fine, thanks to the airbag, and it was cool to see the system actually work in real-time. Although, I'm glad it wasn't me who tested it. The kit incorporates a chest protector, back protection, and shoulder and elbow pads for passive protection like any other chest protector, and ventilation is adequate to keep air flowing around your torso. You can do away with any additional neck braces, since the Tech-Air Off- Road has built-in neck protection that meets FIM regulations that requires neck movements limited to a maximum of 40 degrees to the rear and 30 degrees maximum in lateral direction. The back and limbs passive protection is CE Level 1 compliant, while the chest area meets CE Level 2. Alpinestars has also developed an app that communicates with the Tech-Air and provides your system's current status. Using the app, you can ac - cess the digital manual, track your ride, and change ride modes right from your phone. We wore the Tech-Air Off-Road for two solid days of riding in the California desert. It's comfortable, easy to maintain, and incorpo- rates the absolute best protection that money—and engineers—can provide. The medium-sized kit is a solid seven pounds, and while some may say that's too heavy, by comparison, the Klim Bad - lands Pro with the full armor kit is almost the same weight. A qual- ity helmet is, of course, the most important piece of gear that any rider can wear, but airbag systems are the next evolution in rider protection. At $999.95, it's not inexpensive, but neither are broken bones, hospital stays, and time off work. From this point forward, I'll be wearing my Tech-Air Off-Road every time I get on a motorcycle. No question about it. It's a technol - ogy that could save your life. CN Tech-Air Off-Road system sells for approximately $1000, which is much cheaper than hospital stays and time off work.