13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test

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13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test
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13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test

Product test: back protectors
13 protectors in a comparison test

Current back protectors should withstand more than just a few shallow knocks. 13 candidates (vests and belt protectors) had to prove who is setting the pace here. Let’s rock!

Thorsten Dentges

09/15/2011

To protect yourself from bad things like cholera, for example on a trip to tropical regions, you almost naturally get vaccinated. The protection is poor and the likelihood of drinking contaminated water and catching this evil, with a little caution, is even lower. In the end, you just protect yourself as much as possible. Unfortunately, this is not always the case with motorcyclists. The protective effect of a back protector is undisputed, research has come to the conclusion that in around ten percent of all accidents with injuries to the spine, a protector can prevent serious injuries such as paraplegia. And to get such protection, you don’t need a doctor’s prescription. Nevertheless, many bikers consider a back protector for short city trips and leisurely pleasure tours across the country to be exaggerated, thinking that only sports riders need this additional insurance. But they often forget that their motto “I just drive carefully” does not apply to other road users who clear you up when things go badly. But not only plague and cholera should be mentioned at this point.

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Objections, strap-on protectors or protective vests are usually rather awkward to handle, are annoying when driving and hinder active safety, are quite justified; because the feel-good factor is a prerequisite for the necessary presence on the motorcycle in critical situations. And finally there is also an investment in the room. In the current test field, the cheapest protectors cost from 80 euros (with Buse and polo), Rukka requires almost 200 euros more. You don’t want to make a mistake, because if the protector is so uncomfortable that you would rather leave it hanging in your wardrobe, it is of very little use. And if it hardly dampens (serves) or does not fit well, it is just as worthless. MOTORRAD therefore carried out a practical test to determine whether the selected candidates were worth their money. In order to ensure maximum objectivity for the most important point, shock absorption, the testers commissioned TuV Rheinland in Cologne. Based on the current test standard (EN 1621-2), all protectors had to endure several single blows on a standardized test bench.

The averaged residual force values ​​gave a good indication of how safe the individual protectors are to be assessed. There was no bad outlier, and fortunately the practical check showed that most of the current protectors also offer really good comfort. In view of this predominantly good “drum kit”, objectors and hitherto non-wearers can hardly drum up against protective equipment that increases their own safety in a meaningful way.


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

Acerbis – 6 plates.

Provider: Buse, phone 02471/12690, www.buese.com
Sizes: L (in size M the model name is “5 Plates”);
Price: 79.95 euros
Weight (in size L): 744 grams
Test level: 1
Residual force value: 14.66 kN (averaged)
Materials: Hard shell elements made of polypropylene with a carrier layer made of EPE foam and polyamide
Fixation: elastic shoulder straps (only attached, easily removable) with adjustable buckles, elastic waist belt with Velcro fastener
Country of manufacture: China

Conclusion:
Acts relentlessly and presses on the shoulder blades, but not on the spine. This is also reasonably well ventilated by the “tunnel” construction in the central area. And since the hard shell protector is quite thin, it even fits under tight suits. The residual force values ​​were extremely high for individual test blows, which at least not applies to the price for this Italian Chinese.

MOTORRAD verdict:
satisfying


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

BMW – Protector Vest.

Provider: BMW Motorrad, phone 01805/5001972, www.bmw-motorrad.de
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Price: 160 euros
Weight (in size L): 1168 grams
Test level: 2
Residual force value: 6.89 kN (averaged)
Materials: Protector made of polyurethane with attached hard shell in the spine area, polyamide-polyester cover
Fixation: elastic shoulder straps with adjustable buckles, elastic chest strap with click fastener, elastic waist belt with Velcro fastener
Country of manufacture: Hungary

Conclusion:
Good fit and first-class residual strength values ​​in the shock absorption test, these are reasons to buy. The comfort – with slight restrictions in a very sporty driving position – is perfectly fine, even under the leather suit, despite the large dimensions of the protector and the shockingly high weight. However, the waist belt is cut too wide for normal to slim statures, the Velcro is not fixed enough.

MOTORRAD verdict:
Good


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

Alpinestars Bionic Back Protector.

Provider: Alpinestars, phone 0039/0423/5286, www.alpinestars.com
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Price: 139.95 euros
Weight (in size L): 770 grams
Test level: 2
Residual force value: 8.36 kN (averaged)
Materials: Hard shell protector made of polypropylene in combination with a carrier layer made of polyurethane, polyester and polyamide
Fixation: elastic shoulder straps with adjustable buckles, elastic waist belt with Velcro fastener and additional Velcro width adjustments on the hips
Country of manufacture: Thailand

Conclusion:
The flexible, thin and therefore comfortable hard shell protector, which is very flexible thanks to the flexible storage of plastic scales, cuts a fine figure even in an extreme racing position. It is light and does not let go (good fixation). Large slits in the hard shell let a lot of air in or (sweat) steam out. Winner in the comfort rating. The residual force measured during the shock absorption test is okay.

MOTORRAD verdict:
Good


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

Buse – back protector.

Provider: Buse, phone 02471/12690, www.buese.com
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL
Price: 79.95 euros
Weight (in size L): 744 grams
Test level: 2
Residual force value: 7.32 kN (averaged)
Materials: Protector made of polyurethane, cover made of polyamide, polyester, neoprene and polyurethane
Fixation: elastic shoulder straps with plastic adjustment buckles, elastic waist belt with Velcro fastener
Country of manufacture: Pakistan

Conclusion:
Large selection of sizes, small price. And the determined shock absorption values ​​are impressive, as is the still very acceptable weight. The cover up to the neck area could be better, however, and the wide, extremely high attached waist belt takes a lot of getting used to. The ventilation is sparse. Nevertheless, you should definitely try on the recommended Buse.

MOTORRAD verdict:
Good


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

Dainese – N-Frame Back 3.

Provider: Dainese, phone 089/35396766, www.dainese.com
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Price: 89 euros
Weight (in size L): 628 grams
Test level: 2
Residual force value: 7.42 kN (averaged)
Materials: Protector made of polypropylene with outer layer made of nitrile rubber, cover made of polyamide and polyester
Fixation: elastic shoulder straps with adjustable buckles, elastic waist belt with Velcro fastener
Country of manufacture: Tunisia

Conclusion:
Although the Dainese protector feels pretty hard, it doesn’t bother or press under the station wagon, even in a super sport position. The spine from neck to rump is well protected (very decent shock absorption values), but the shoulder blades are somewhat exposed. The Dainese part shows its great strength in weight and handiness. People like to take this protector with them on tour. The price is extremely fair.

MOTORRAD verdict:
Good


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

Forcefield – Pro Sub 4.

Provider: Germot, phone 06103/459100, www.germot.de
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Price: 169.90 euros
Weight (in size L): 1118 grams
Test level: 2
Residual force value: 4.09 kN (averaged)
Materials: double protector made of PVC foam, cover made of polyamide and polyester
Fixation: elastic shoulder straps with adjustable buckles, elastic waist belt with Velcro and Velcro width adjustments on the hips
Country of manufacture: Taiwan

Conclusion:
Sensational shock absorption values ​​lead to a place on the podium. The good cushioning is achieved, however, by a massive double protector that is thick
and can hardly be worn under a sporty leather suit. In comparison, the cleanly processed one Forcefield also quite difficult. For those who wear textile jackets, however, an absolutely safe bank – recommended.

MOTORRAD verdict:
Good


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

HERO – Rank.

Provider: Held, phone 08321 / 6646-0, www.held.de
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL (women: DXS to DXL); Price: 169.95 euros
Weight (in size L): 1096 grams (bump protection: 138 grams)
Test level: 2
Residual force value: 6.80 kN (averaged)
Materials: multi-layer protector made of nitrile rubber, cover and vest made of polyamide and polyurethane
Fixation: Shoulder and chest fixation with vest with zipper, elastic waist belt with double Velcro fastener
Country of manufacture: China

Conclusion:
Although it is also one of the somewhat unwieldy heavyweights in the test, it scores with good residual strength values ​​in the shock absorption test, top fixation (sits nice and tight, hugs like a second skin) and excellent coverage. Great: The butt protection increases protection, but can also be removed for reasons of comfort. Deserved second place together with the Forcefield – really good!

MOTORRAD verdict:
Good


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

Hiprotec – back protector.

Provider: Hein Gericke, phone 0180/5229522, www.heingericke.de
Sizes: S, M, L
Price: 89.95 euros
Weight (in size L): 780 grams
Test level: 2
Residual force value: 8.69 kN (averaged)
Materials: Protector made of polyurethane in combination with a carrier layer made of polyester
Fixation: elastic shoulder straps with adjustable buckles, elastic waist belt with Velcro and Velcro width adjustments on the hips
Country of manufacture: Italy

Conclusion:
The “perforated back plate made of soft foam” advertised as being comfortable to wear hardly ventilates and appears rigid, hard and inflexible like a hard shell protector. So the snugness factor is low. The freedom of movement in a tight-fitting leather suit is just enough. In a racing position, the helmet hits the protector that extends far upwards. The somewhat cheap looking Hiprotec offers good security.

MOTORRAD verdict:
satisfying


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


IXS – Pro Back VII

IXS – Pro Back VII.

Provider: IXS, phone 7631/18040, www.ixs.de
Sizes: S, M, L
Price: 89.95 euros
Weight (in size M): 488 grams
Test level: 1
Residual force value: 17.02 kN (averaged)
Materials: Protector made of polyethylene foam in combination with a carrier layer made of polyamide
Fixation: elastic shoulder straps with adjustable buckles, elastic waist belt with Velcro fastener
Country of manufacture: Italy

Conclusion:
The cheaply made one IXS Only sparsely covers the back with a real protective surface, while the large support layer made of synthetic material quickly makes the driver sweat. The protector is pleasantly light and easy to use, but the shoulder straps and plastic adjustment buckles are awkward and cut into the chest and shoulder area. After all, a racing stance is hardly a problem.

MOTORRAD verdict:
sufficient


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

Polo – Safemax Aero.

Provider: Polo, phone 0180/5225785, www.polo-motorrad.de
Sizes: S, M, L
Price: 79.95 euros
Weight (in size L): 846 grams
Test level: 2
Residual force value: 8.64 kN (averaged)
Materials: Protector made of polyurethane and polyester in combination with a carrier layer made of polyester and polyurethane
Fixation: elastic shoulder straps with adjustable buckles, elastic waist belt with Velcro fastener
Country of manufacture: Italy

Conclusion:
Relatively thick protector, which results in a very tight fit under a tight-fitting suit. The overall comfort is on a good level, except in the racing position, when the Safemax hits the helmet. The residual force values ​​for the shock absorption are decent, the rump and shoulder blades are well covered – there is nothing to complain about when it comes to safety. Solid home cooking for little money in comparison.

MOTORRAD verdict:
Good


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

Rukka – APS Air Anatomic.

Provider: Rukka, phone 040/5511055, www.rukka.com
Sizes: S, M, L
Price: 279 euros
Weight (in size L): 1060 grams
Test level: 1
Residual force value: 16.48 kN (averaged)
Materials: multi-layer protector made of a polyester grid structure with silicone coating, cover and vest made of polyester, polyamide and polyurethane
Fixation: Shoulder and chest fixation by vest with zipper, elastic crotch straps
Country of manufacture: Portugal

Conclusion:
The best thing is the very wearable vest made of air-conditioned Outlast fabric. The worst is the protector, because despite several layers of high-tech material within the test field, it only delivered extremely modest residual force values ​​in the shock absorption test. Workmanship, fit and ventilation are okay – but still missing the topic. High end price but not a high end product.

MOTORRAD verdict:
Satisfying


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

SPIDI – Back Warrior Evo.

Provider: Shark Helme, phone 04108/458000, www.spidi.com
Sizes: one size
Price: 99.90 euros
Weight: 596 grams
Test level: 2
Residual force value: 9.26 kN (averaged, limit value exceeded)
Materials: Hard shell protector made of polyethylene in combination with a carrier layer made of polyethylene foam, polyester and polyamide
Fixation: elastic shoulder straps with adjustable buckles, elastic waist belt with Velcro fastener
Country of manufacture: Ukraine

Conclusion:
Too short, too small, should that be one size? You can hardly figure out how a hard shell with the same surface area, which can only be adjusted up and down with Velcro, is supposed to protect backs of different sizes. In any case, the protector only covers moderately, with the shock absorption the at least very light one fails Spidi also just short of the self-imposed high level 2 requirements.

MOTORRAD verdict:
satisfying


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


MPS studio

Vanucci – protector vest.

Provider: Louis, Telephone 040/73419360, www.louis.de
Sizes: S, M, L, XL (women: XS + S, M, L) Price: 139.95 euros (women: 129.95 euros)
Weight (in size L): 962 grams
Test level: 2
Residual force value: 5.39 kN (averaged)
Materials: multi-layer protector made of polyurethane foam, cover and vest made of polyester
Fixation: Shoulder and chest fixation with vest with zipper, elastic waist belt with double Velcro fastener
Country of manufacture: Italy

Conclusion:
Excellent coverage from the neck down to the rump, and the shoulder blades are also well protected. In addition, there is a perfect fixation and very good shock absorption values. Everything done right, the Vanucci vest offers the best security. In terms of comfort, it has to give up a few springs due to the weight (at least just under the one-kilo pain limit), but still a worthy test winner.

MOTORRAD verdict:
very good

Conclusion


13 back protectors for motorcyclists in a comparison test


archive

MOTORCYCLE final scoring.

Conclusion:
Comfort or maximum security? Difficult, after all, very light and manageable candidates such as Dainese’s with the values ​​predominantly in the healthy normal range of the demanding level 2 (max. 9 kN) are also found. The safest protectors from Force-field, Vanucci, Held or BMW are perfectly fitting vests and therefore great (also in terms of price). As heavyweights they feel like additional ballast and are sometimes difficult to combine with tight leather suits. Poor certificate: The extremely expensive Rukka as well as IXS and Acerbis there are only lax test standards. That is no longer appropriate.

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