Introduction
Riding a motorcycle, scooter, and even an electric bike in the city today requires motorcycle protection to ensure your safety. We must combat preconceived notions. The stakes are the same, the risks are just as significant, and even greater, than if you were riding on a country road. Protective gear adapted to this type of riding is therefore crucial to minimize the consequences of falls or accidents. This article explores the various essential protections for motorcycles, scooters, and even bicycles in the city. It focuses on protective vests, motorcycle jackets, and other essential safety equipment.
The protective vest or Air Bag
Importance and Function
The protective vest, better known as the Air Bag, is essential equipment for any motorcyclist and has been seen as a small revolution. Its application even goes beyond two-wheelers since it is used in other disciplines such as horse riding, skiing, and cross-country cycling. It offers additional protection for the spine in the event of a fall, and its technology is now completely democratized. It is the optimal protection, more effective than a back protector but much more restrictive and heavy. These vests are a real protective armor that is triggered by a sensor and worn over clothing. It also protects the chest.
Protection level
There are different levels of protection for vests, classified according to safety standards. For example, a protective vest with a higher level of protection will offer better shock absorption and greater impact resistance. These products all have the same shape and fit on the back like a backpack.
Comfort and size
Comfort and fit are key criteria when choosing a protective vest. A vest that's too big or too small can reduce its effectiveness and hinder movement. It's important to choose a vest that fits your body shape for optimal protection without compromising comfort.
Motorcycle jackets: protective armor
Design and materials
Motorcycle jackets are designed to provide complete protection for the torso, shoulders, elbows, and sometimes even the forearms. Jacket designs often include durable materials like leather or technical textiles, which offer good abrasion resistance. For urban riding, such protection is essential if you want to ride with complete peace of mind, even in hot summer weather.
Elbow and shoulder protection
Motorcycle jackets are equipped with rigid or semi-rigid protectors on the elbows and shoulders to absorb shock in the event of a fall. These protectors are crucial because they can save you months of rehabilitation in the event of a bad fall. At VEST PARIS, we've seen many accident victims who thought they had a minor fall that turned out to be more disabling than expected.
Back protectors and belt
Curiously, while elbow and shoulder protectors are mandatory in a certified motorcycle jacket, back protection is not. This may seem incomprehensible because while it is possible to repair a joint, this is not the case for the spine. The thickness of the back protector (like other protections) is not a guarantee of quality. EU certification is a guarantee that is sufficient in itself. We must sweep away preconceived ideas: just because a protection is thicker or more rigid does not mean it protects more. Only the technology counts. At VEST PARIS we use SAS TEC and D3O protections, which are flexible and absorbent technologies.
Other safety equipment
Helmet
A helmet is the most crucial piece of safety equipment for any motorcyclist. It protects the head in the event of an impact and is mandatory in many countries. Choosing a quality helmet with a good design and a perfect fit is essential for maximum protection. VEST PARIS will be writing an article about the different helmets and their prices available on the market.
Knee pads
In the city, knee pads offer additional protection for joints, which are particularly vulnerable in the event of a fall. However, scooter riders and urban cyclists rarely wear this type of protection, mainly for practical and comfort reasons, as they are not flexible. These protectors must be adjusted correctly to the knees to ensure optimal coverage without hindering movement.
Reinforced soles for purists
Motorcycle boots with reinforced soles provide protection against impacts and abrasion. You won't wear them if you're an urban commuter who uses your two-wheeler primarily for practical reasons. In short, if you're not a motorcycle purist, you won't buy them. These soles are designed to protect the feet and ankles while providing good support and grip.
What to keep in your basket?
Comfort and fit
Comfort and discretion are essential criteria when choosing protective gear for an urban dweller. Uncomfortable (and unsightly) clothing can ruin the daily lives of motorcyclists and cyclists. It's crucial to choose gear that offers a good fit, allows freedom of movement, and, above all, gives you the right look. This is the challenge that VEST PARIS has successfully addressed. Demonstrating these criteria has contributed to the success of brands like VEST PARIS, which have clearly understood these needs.
Protection level
It is important to check the level of protection offered by each piece of equipment. The protections must comply with current EU safety standards to ensure effective protection in the event of an accident.
Materials and durability
The materials and technologies used in the manufacture of protective equipment must be robust and durable. Leather and technical textiles are most commonly used for jackets due to their resistance to abrasion and wear. For protective gear, manufacturers are now competing to achieve the most discreet protection possible.
Weight and volume
Equipment weight is also a factor to consider. Equipment that's too heavy doesn't do much for comfort, fatigue, or enjoyment. It's important to find a good balance between protection and lightness.
Conclusion
Choosing the right protection for city riding is crucial to ensure rider safety and comfort. Protective vests , motorcycle jackets , helmets , knee pads , and other gear must be carefully selected, taking into account the level of protection , comfort , and durability . By investing in quality gear, riders can ride in the city with peace of mind, knowing they are well protected in the event of a fall or accident.