Table of contents
- Product test: upper-class textile suits in comparison The top ten upper-class textile suits
- This is how MOTORRAD tests
- Two back protectors in the test
- Final evaluation / conclusion
Jahn
clothing
Station wagons, jackets & pants
Comparative test of textile suits 2012
Product test: upper-class textile suits in comparison
The top ten upper-class textile suits
Monsoon rains on France’s highways, frost in the Pyrenees, plenty of sunshine on the Mediterranean: on a tour through Europe, ten textile suits have to survive a season in fast motion.
Jorg Lohse
08/16/2012
A bleak balance at the Jura service station on the A 39 motorway west of the Vosges: France has been under the rule for six hours. And in all variations that even ARD weather fairy Claudia Kleinert can no longer gloss over. As a nasty downpour that turns the asphalt surface into a rushing mountain stream, or the finest drizzle that creeps into every imaginable crack and even undermines tightly fitting helmet vents. With some textile combinations, too, serious problems are now spreading: seepage water in the collar, a front zip that is no longer tightly sealed, the jacket and trousers overlapping too tightly, which leads to a damp gut feeling. And it’s around 500 kilometers to Stuttgart! Hectic calls back home clarify whether dry roads can be expected at least beyond the border at the Kaiserstuhl in Baden, Germany’s sunny paradise. The situation report from Wetteronline & Co remains disastrous.
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On the previously unwound 3500 kilometers everything had looked very good. It is true that there was not the least bit of sunshine. But the trip from the editorial office in Stuttgart via Marseille, Barcelona and through the Pyrenees back home all the capricious weather that can be expected in a classic season from Easter to October: short but heavy rain showers, with plenty of sun in between cruising along the Mediterranean coast, cold and windy stages of mountaineering in the Pyrenees.
Jahn
Into the mountains: sinking temperatures and bad weather on the march.
Hardly any of the premium station wagons, which cover a price range of around 800 to almost 2250 euros, cause real problems. So it’s time to get to grips with the practicality of the suits. The first impression is confirmed with every kilometer driven. The manufacturers in this price range are not doing the job for the first time, they know about the quality of the materials used and they don’t mess with the cut or comfort of their suits. Nevertheless, the test field is anything but uniform.
On the one hand, the touring suit is designed to be very conservative. Hein Gericke is an example of this. The suit follows the design that has been known from a classic textile suit for decades.
Although the wearer feels like a plush padded teddy bear, they cannot complain about a lack of comfort. Especially since Gericke relies on ingenious detailed solutions such as the high-closing storm collar, with which wind and rain are reliably slowed down. The whole thing is structurally well thought out so that the collar can be closed perfectly and accurately with one hand movement using a magnetic fastener. With other test candidates, such as IXS, the proper fixation of the storm collar turns out to be an annoying test of patience.
Jahn
Wet finale of a great tour. 15 hours of continuous rain between Lyon and Stuttgart.
Second argument for Hein Gericke: the complete set of protectors including effective hip and back protection. The fact that this is a matter of course for the cheapest suit in the test should be a blow to the office for some significantly more expensive providers. As an alternative to the old-school design à la Gericke, tight-waisted station wagons have become established that give the driver a sporty crack-&-Press back format, but still be comfortable to wear thanks to the waterproof stretch fabric (e.g. Dainese, IXS, Rukka). However, in these crisp constructions the “Air factor” too short as an effective protection against the cold. The result can be clearly felt in the Pyrenees. An uncomfortable feeling of cold spreads faster than in other combinations.
A problem that the third category in this test field also has in part: the so-called hybrid suits, which are extremely well ventilated by removing (Held, Rev ?? it) or removing (Touratech) a separate Gore-Tex skin Transform summer combination.
Except for the Rev ?? it suit, which has an extra thermal lining on board, everyone else has to pack an extra warm undergarment. Sensitive people put on a second layer of functional underwear (base plus midlayer) even when the outside temperature is moderate. That costs extra, of course, but the purchase no longer makes the roast fat at the starting price.
Jahn
Alpinestars Tech Road Gore-Tex
Providers: Alpinestars, phone 0039/0423/5286, www.alpinestars.com
Price: Jacket 699.95 euros, pants 549.95 euros, complete 1249.90 euros
Sizes: Men 48 to 60
Colour: Black; Features: Gore-Tex climate membrane, removable thermal lining, removable braces
Fit / comfort
Full seat, well proportioned. The outer skin convinces with a firm grip and thanks to practical width adjusters does not flutter even at high speeds. On the other hand, it pampers you with cozy lining and is supple.
Weather protection
Survives the 15-hour rainy stage without getting wet; The removable fleece-lined storm collar is particularly effective. Thanks to the thermal lining that is pulled down, the back area remains free of drafts.
security
Neatly positioned, pressure-free protectors protect shoulders, elbows and knees. Hips, chest and back are only thinly padded and have to be equipped with CE-standardized protectors for an additional charge.
Equipment / processing
Large pockets on the jacket and trousers offer plenty of storage space, but are not waterproof. the
Velcro fasteners are fiddly to use.
Conclusion
Top processed, high-quality use of materials, well thought-out. The Alpinestars station wagon impresses as a fast long-distance travel suit with a rich comfort pad for cold and wet days. Insufficient ventilation is annoying on hot summer days.
MOTORRAD verdict: good
Alpinestars
Jahn
Dainese Tundra / Tracker Gore-Tex
Providers: Dainese, phone 089/35827270, www.dainese.de
Price: Jacket 629.00 euros, pants 339.00 euros, complete 968.00 euros
Sizes: Jacket men 44 to 64, trousers men 48 to 64
To dye: Black, black / red, gray / blue
Furnishing: Gore-Tex climate membrane, removable thermal lining, extra thermal collar
Fit / comfort
Except for the trouser legs that are too short for some testers, they have a convincingly crisp fit with comfortable lining. A particularly clever solution: the upper arm width adjustment using vertically attached zippers.
Weather protection
Despite the thermal lining and the extremely tight collar, the comfort zone ends at ten degrees, below which it becomes chilly. There are no problems when driving for hours in the rain or – thanks to effective air inlets on the pants – on very hot days.
security
Well-fitting protectors on shoulders, elbows and knees, everything else (back, chest) must be retrofitted separately.
Equipment / processing
Clean and high quality processed down to the last detail. Features large pockets, easy-to-grip zippers and press studs.
Conclusion
Touring suit with a refreshingly simple, smooth design. Shows no dropouts in the pouring rain for hours, pampers you with pleasant ventilation in strong sunshine. The isolation
but too poor for cold days.
MOTORRAD verdict: good
Jahn
Dane Nordborg / Lyngby GTX
Providers: Motoport, phone 0 44 51/91 52 00, www.motoport.de
Price: Jacket 699.00 euros, pants 499.00 euros, complete 1198.00 euros
Sizes: Jacket men 48 to 60, trousers men 48 to 62 plus short and long sizes, women 34 to 46
Colour: black
Furnishing: Gore-Tex climate membrane, removable thermal lining
Fit / comfort
With a slightly stubborn outer fabric and pressing protectors, a slight loss of comfort. But scores with a successful fit with sufficient arm and leg lengths (trousers also available in intermediate sizes).
Weather protection
Convinces in continuous rain and sunshine. Reliably locks out moisture and cold, but would increase comfort with a higher (thermal) collar.
security
Comprehensive protection package with CE-standardized protectors in the joints and on the back. Alibi hip pads that can be exchanged for real protectors.
Equipment / processing
Great workmanship, but it lacks functionality due to partially poorly accessible pockets and zippers as well as stiff air inlets (lockout closure).
Conclusion
Extensively equipped all-weather suit that easily masters rain and cold trips. Attracts attention not only with an integrated back protector, but also with sensibly placed reflectors. Small comfort deficit.
MOTORRAD verdict: good
Motorport
Jahn
Hein Gericke Summit Gore-Tex
Providers: Hein Gericke, phone 0180/5229522, www.hein-gericke.de
Price: Jacket 489.95 euros, pants 329.95 euros, complete 819.90 euros
Sizes: Men 50 to 60, trousers available in short and long sizes
Colour: black
Furnishing: Gore-Tex climate membrane, removable thermal lining, removable storm collar, braces
Fit / comfort
Jacket in the classic old man’s cut (blouson style) inflates a little too much at brisk travel speed, trousers with small leather trimmings in the seat a bit too slippery. Overall, however, a comfortable fit without pressure points.
Weather protection
Top marks for all seasons and weather patterns. Doesn’t lose its power when driving in the rain for hours, provides excellent insulation against the cold, does not overheat in strong sunlight. Particularly effective in wet and windy conditions: the storm collar with a magnetic quick-release fastener.
security
Exemplary full equipment. CE protectors on shoulders, elbows, hips, knees and back, which are also height-adjustable for individual adjustment to the elbows and knees.
Equipment / processing
Solidly processed, extensive range of bags, practical to use. That fits.
Conclusion
Gericke shows that you can offer the complete protection package including hip and back protectors for well under 1000 euros. Anyone who feels comfortable in the old-school style will get a climatically particularly balanced solution.
MOTORRAD verdict: very good
Jahn
Hero Carese / Torno
Providers: Held, phone 08321/66460, www.held.de
Price: Jacket EUR 529, trousers EUR 399, complete EUR 928.00
Sizes: S to 5XL, trousers available in short and long sizes
To dye: Gray / red, black / gray
Furnishing: removable Gore-Tex climate membrane, firmly sewn Coolmax lining
Fit / comfort
Cut with a tight fit, it stays in very good shape even at high cruising speeds.
Weather protection
The fully removable Gore-Tex lining, the large air inlets on the chest and legs and the pleasantly cooling lining make it perfect for hot summer days. Insufficiently insulated for the transition period or on cold days. During long journeys in the rain, there is a risk of water penetrating the zips or overlapping of the jacket and trousers.
security
Shoulders, elbows and knees are protected by protectors; Hips and back are only covered with thin alibi pads, which can optionally be exchanged for protectors.
Equipment / processing
Nicely finished, with many well thought-out details such as wide Velcro fasteners or air inlets that can be opened quickly via magnets.
Conclusion
It fits snugly like a leather suit, but offers the airy comfort of a T-shirt and shorts. In midsummer and with light showers, the Held suit convinces across the board. With heavy continuous rain there is a risk of water ingress.
MOTORRAD verdict: good
Weblink: Held Biker Fashion
Jahn
IXS Toronto / Hamilton
Providers: Hostettler, phone 07631/18040, www.ixs.de
Price: Jacket 699.90 euros, pants 379.90 euros, complete 1079.80 euros
Sizes: Jacket S to 5XL, trousers S to 6XL plus short and long sizes
Colour: black
Furnishing: Gore-Tex climate membrane, removable thermal lining, removable storm collar
Fit / comfort
The jacket and trousers convince sporty drivers with their close-fitting cut. Small loss of comfort due to the narrow knee protector.
Weather protection
The IXS suit mastered the 15-hour rainy stage with flying colors. The thermal lining, on the other hand, only insulates moderately on cold days. A cold bridge on the front zip is particularly annoying. Effective for this on hot days: the air inlets on the thighs.
security
Extensively equipped with partially height-adjustable protectors on shoulders, elbows and knees as well as a back protector of the highest protection class (level 2). Only the thin hip pads still have to be exchanged for real protectors.
Equipment / processing
Lots of pockets, some of them impractical. Storm collar difficult to close.
Conclusion
Close-fitting, but very comfortable touring suit with excellent rain protection and great workmanship. The equipment list (pockets, storm collars, width adjusters, etc.) is extensive, but it lacks practical suitability.
MOTORRAD verdict: good
IXS
Jahn
Rev’it Defender GTX
Providers: Rev’it Sport, phone (0031) 412/696740, www.revit.eu
Price: Jacket 579.99 euros, pants 439.99 euros, complete 1019.98 euros
Sizes: S to XYL, trousers available in short and long sizes
To dye: Black, silver / red, silver / black, silver / beige
Furnishing: removable Gore-Tex climate membrane, removable thermal lining, firmly sewn Coolmax lining
Fit / comfort
The multi-layered suit (to be converted from the thickly insulated winter suit to the airy summer suit) cannot keep up with the tight fit of the other suits from this test. There is a lack of effective width adjusters for a flutter-free fit without lining and climate membrane.
Weather protection
Offers comfort in all seasons: very pleasantly insulated on cold days, refreshingly airy on hot days and a climate insert that provides excellent protection against rain. Small weak point in the test: seepage water in the collar area.
security
Shoulders, elbows and knees are protected with protectors, the rest must be retrofitted. The bottom line is too weakly equipped.
Equipment / processing
Top processed, practically designed.
Conclusion
Broadband combo for the whole year. However, it only fits in full format (with thermal lining and climate insert) like Knack & Back, tends to flutter as a summer suit. The practical equipment (pockets, reflectors) is less appealing than the protection package.
MOTORRAD verdict: good
Rev’it
Jahn
Rukka R-Star
Providers: Rukka Germany, phone 040/5511055, www.rukka.com
Price: Jacket 1249 euros, pants 999 euros, complete 2248 euros
Sizes: Men 46 to 62, trousers available in short sizes
To dye: Black / blue, black / yellow, white / yellow
Furnishing: Gore-Tex climate membrane, removable thermal lining, removable storm collar
Fit / comfort
Outer fabric with a firm grip, stays in good shape even at high speeds. With the thermal lining in place, the fit is great, without a little lack of effective fine-trim options. The lattice structure of the (noticeably heavy) protectors and the inelastic lockout closure that presses slightly on the neck reduce the all-round comfort.
Weather protection
Hours of continuous rain are no problem for the Rukka wearer. But cold bridges on the sleeves and on the front closure are annoying. The insulation is very poor for cool days (below 15 degrees). In contrast, very pleasant in the heat.
security
Top: fully equipped protectors including back and hips.
Equipment / processing
Cleanly processed, many extras, but sometimes difficult to use (zippers, pockets).
Conclusion
Rukka’s high-end station wagon operates in a price region that already has very good used motorcycles. The protection against rain is great, but not enough against the cold. In the test, the hard knee reinforcements put a lot of pressure on the paint on the tank flanks.
MOTORRAD verdict: good
Rukka
Jahn
Stadler Force Pro / Ace Pro
Providers: Stadler, phone 08543/96200, www.stadler-bekleidung.de
Price: Jacket 849 euros, pants 569 euros, complete 1418 euros
Sizes: Jacket men 48 to 60, women 36 to 46, trousers men 48 to 62, women 36 to 46, combination in intermediate sizes and available as custom-made items
Colour: Black red; Features: Gore-Tex climate membrane, removable thermal lining
Fit / comfort
Full, body-hugging fit with excellently measured arm and leg lengths. It is very light and comfortable to wear even when fully equipped (with thermal lining). Very practical designed zippers and Velcro fasteners.
Weather protection
Very comfortable (because well ventilated) for the warm season, for cold days (below 10 degrees) the insulation effect of the thermal lining is a little too poor. Small drawback with the 15-hour rain drive: In the end, seepage water penetrates into the interior of the suit via a narrow overlap between jacket and trousers. No failures on shorter (heavy) rainy stages.
security
Joint and back protectors: everything included!
Equipment / processing
Neatly processed down to the smallest detail. Pockets are sometimes too small.
Conclusion
High quality touring suit, one of the few Made in Germany products. Enthusiastic about a great fit that leaves nothing to be desired thanks to intermediate sizes and made-to-measure designs. Feels more comfortable in summer than on cold, wet days.
MOTORRAD verdict: very good
Stadler
Jahn
Touratech Compañero Black Edition
Providers: Touratech, phone 07728/92790, www.touratech.de
Price: Jacket 1099 euros, pants 699 euros, complete 1798 euros
Sizes: Men 48 to 60, women 36 to 44, combination available in short and long sizes
Colour: Black / gray
Furnishing: Gore-Tex overalls, detachable back pocket
Fit / comfort
Sporty cut, wonderfully tight-fitting (summer) basic combination, which is combined with the rainproof and breathable Gore-Tex overalls for bad weather trips. Both versions have a firm, flutter-free and comfortable seat – but you can feel the high weight (almost 20 percent more than comparable station wagons).
Weather protection
Two suits for two extremes: brilliant protection in monsoon-like continuous rain, extremely well ventilated on hot days in the middle of the season. The thermal lining is missing from the factory for the transition period. Here you have to work with appropriate functional underwear (from 15 degrees downwards in two layers!).
security
Back and joints with CE-standardized protection: Nothing is missing here.
Equipment / processing
Top processed, functionally equipped.
Conclusion
The high price is put into perspective when you see the Compañero as it is designed: as a two-in-one solution with which you can easily rush through the extreme weather of heat and rain. On request, it can also be individually expanded with many extras.
MOTORRAD verdict: very good
Touratech
This is how MOTORRAD tests
Jahn
Still causing problems in the test: Lockour closure from Gore-Tex
Fit / comfort (30 points):
Size check: Where the suit pinches and pinches, are arm and leg lengths sufficiently dimensioned, is it pressed against the protectors or the collar rubs?
Security (20 points):
Just in case: is the station wagon equipped with a high-performance protector package in accordance with European standard EN 1621? Full marks are only awarded if all joints (including hips) and the back are protected.
Weather protection (30 points):
Key question in the test: How does the station wagon withstand 15 hours of continuous rain? But just as important for wellbeing: does the thermal lining provide effective protection against the cold, does it fit with the ventilation on hot days?
(20 points):
Considerable quality is expected at usually four-digit purchase prices. But also at a glance: What is the functionality of the equipment??
Two back protectors in the test
archive
Two back protectors on the test bench: The shock absorption properties are almost identical, but are fought for in different ways.
Red pencil policy in the upper class: With the inexpensive combinations, you have long got used to it: When it comes to protectors, the red pencil rules. A maximum of shoulders, elbows and knees are protected by type-tested protectors in accordance with the European standard EN 1621-1. As a rule, the hips are left out in the same way as an effective protective padding for the back that complies with EN 1621-2. Instead of real protectors, thin foam mats are used as cheap placeholders in the feed pockets. The type-tested security is only available at an additional cost. The picture in this test is frightening: of the ten suits in the Champions League, less than half are equipped with the complete protector package – the bottom line is that they are poor. Especially since protector technology is advancing: Chest protectors have already been developed for series production, but are not even used in the S-Class of driver equipment, as our test shows.
The bar for current protector technology is now very high. According to the standard, there are two protection classes for back protectors: Level 1 allows residual force values of a maximum of 18 kilonewtons (kN) in the shock absorption test, while Level 2 only allows nine. Level 2 is now easily achieved by all providers in the test. In relation to its size, the Touratech back protector weighs only half as much as that of Rukka, but covers almost twice the area – with identical shock absorption properties.
Final evaluation / conclusion
archive
Test results of the upper class textile suits
What a test field: In total, the ten textile suits from premium manufacturers cost more than 12,000 euros – what about the equivalent? A look at the equipment list shows: As a rule, the sewing machines rattle through expensive high-tech fabric, for climate comfort in rain, wind and sun, all suppliers rely on the climate membrane from Gore-Tex. It usually worked well. Smaller weaknesses that came to light in a hard 15-hour stage of continuous rain were more of a constructive nature than the quality of the material. The consistently good to very good final grades show that the manufacturers have developed a real feel for the needs of motorcyclists. There is a lot of catching up to do in terms of safety equipment. The use of contemporary protectors including protection for the back and hips should be standard in this price range. Hein Gericke proves that full protection is not a question of price.
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