Table of contents

• Product test: five high-end textile suits Five motorcycle station wagons from 1000 euros in the test
• High-end station wagons under the microscope
• Small material science

Jahn

clothing

Station wagons, jackets & pants

Five motorcycle station wagons over 1000 euros in the test

Product test: five high-end textile suits
Five motorcycle station wagons from 1000 euros in the test

Welcome to the Olympus of driver equipment. Five station wagons in the price range 1000 euros plus x have to show their colors in an intensive test over 5500 kilometers: expensive is always good?

Jorg Lohse

07/21/2011

Whether in sunny temperatures or freezing cold: it depends on the right motorcycle combination.

Higher, further, faster: The trend that everything has to be bigger, more sophisticated and more extensive today does not stop at the clothing manufacturers in the motorcycle business. Similar to the motorcycle, which nowadays can cost 20,000 euros as a matter of course and has a multitude of technical gadgets and finesse, you can dress accordingly: The textile combination made of cleverly spun polyamide and polyester threads at a price of well over 1,000 euros is also not uncommon, but is becoming from premium brands like Rukka, Spidi or Stadler Hanged in the shops without the blink of an eye. The question remains: Does it mean carefree touring through all the capricious weather conditions of a typical motorcycle season??

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The big MOTORRAD tire test with its 5500 kilometer long wear drive from Stuttgart to the Spanish west coast offered exactly the right environment to thoroughly scrutinize the suits of the Champions League. After all, a complete season is unwound here in a time lapse of seven days of driving. Also included: frosty morning hours in the single-digit temperature range, long-term cruises on motorways and country roads for several hours, scorching hot bends at well over 30 degrees outside temperature.

When trying it on for the first time, it turns out: Even in the super-expensive league, people only cook with water. The fabrics don’t feel very different from those used in cheap synthetic suits. Protectors are available, but they have long been standard in a 200-euro combination at the discounter. When pulling up some zippers, fiddling is just as popular as with the zippers in cheap combinations. So the exciting question: Will the big aha effect only come by the wayside?

Not quite: if you take a closer look, you can see a number of differences in some station wagons. Take Spidi, for example: the elegant combination of the Italian brand offers a number of refinements such as chest protectors and hydration bladders. There is also a cleverly designed bag package that can also be converted into a tank bag for a motorcycle. But the multi-layered, playful structure leads to overkill for tester Rainer Froberg at some point. It can take several minutes until everything is properly closed and properly stowed away after a refueling stop or toll station, in which the rest of the troop is already saddled up and waiting slightly annoyed for the departure with the engines running.

The twin pair from Stadler and seems to be much easier to knit Touratech to be. However, only when viewed very superficially. Anyone who dissects the suit will find that the weather protection has been turned inside out. Until now, it was common practice with so-called hybrid suits that the waterproof climate membrane had to be removed from the jacket and trousers to convert it into an airy summer suit. Not so with Compañero and Concept / Invention. The rainproof and at the same time breathable Gore-Tex laminate is worn in the form of a jacket or trousers. Which, from a logical point of view, makes a lot more sense.

The rain cover can be removed or slipped on much faster, especially when you are out and about. The conventional counterpart is with the station wagons from Rukka or Alpinestars To consider: To convert the summer suit into a well-ventilated one, you have to completely undress. It’s not something you usually do on the side of the road. Or if you want to dismantle when it starts to rain in the spray under a motorway bridge.

So what at first sounds like a tangible advantage is put into perspective on the scales. The Stadler and Touratech drivers have to endure around 25 percent more weight than the conventional variant. No wonder, after all, the Gore-Tex overalls are made of a strong Cordura fabric that is abrasion-resistant due to its protective function. The Gore-Tex weather protection from Rukka and Alpinestars, on the other hand, consists of a feather-light, compactly stowable lining. Despite the two-layer structure, the two testers in Stadler and Touratech shivered on the first, cooler days of the stage. The Gore-Tex climate membrane is windproof, but does not insulate against the cold. A thermal lining, standard for the rest of the test field, is not included. The wearer must ensure comfortable insulation by choosing the right underwear.

Our tip: Windstopper functional underwear is the minimum that should be worn under the Stadler or Touratech suit. Even with relatively warm outside temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees, you can shiver in Compañero and Concept / Invention – at least noticeably more than in conventional suits. Here you have to think about a second layer of functional underwear. This can be problematic for alpine tourists who climb out of the hot valleys onto frosty pass heights. Here you have to find the right mix of comfortable functional underwear individually.

However, both suits are on the winning side when it comes to the ultimate in rain protection. On the grueling rainy stage through the French Cevennes, Rukka and gave after two hours Spidi up, the Alpinestars pilot escaped to the hotel with a slightly damp bib. On the other hand, the Touratech and Stadler testers had beaming faces, who only felt water on their skin when they took a warm shower in the hotel.

High-end station wagons under the microscope

Well dressed for the next trip around the world. The price of the textile combination is not a decisive factor. It is much more important that the developers have incorporated many practical solutions. A lot sounds impressive on paper, but rely on the practical test when trying on: Are all zips and press studs easy to close, and are the pockets easily accessible? You should pay particular attention to the following points:

1. Collar: A high degree is just as important as a fastener that is easy to use. Magnetic solutions are great, but they have to be strong enough.

2. Protectors: All joints including hips, back and, if possible, the chest should be equipped with CE-standardized fall pads.

3. Bags: It’s not the quantity that counts, the quality counts. Two waterproof outer pockets (identification!) And two easily accessible inner pockets are sufficient.

4th sleeve: Only a wide opening guarantees that glove cuffs can be neatly stowed under the sleeves. Smart: waterproof stretch cuffs.

5. Front zip: One of the neuralgic points at which water penetrates. Beware of bulging labyrinth entrances that take time and nerves.

6. Overlap: The second danger point where there is a risk of water ingress. The climate membrane of the jacket and pants must overlap sufficiently.

7. Reinforcements: Exposed areas such as shoulders, elbows and knees must be reinforced with particularly abrasion-resistant material.

8. Leg end: Must not slide up while sitting, should cover the boot shaft and be tightly closed.

Small material science

Lots of holes keep you dry: close-up view of a Gore-Tex membrane.

Don’t freeze, don’t sweat, stay dry and get away with healthy skin if you fall. The requirement profile for synthetic motorcycle clothing covers a wide field. More than 30 years ago, Peter Fackelmann ventured into the textile wonder suit made of polyester. Made up of many layers that shift in the event of a fall, the wearer’s skin should be protected. In the early 1980s, all-weather Gore-Tex suits finally became popular. Outer fabrics must be highly abrasion and tear resistant. The fabric should only melt at temperatures well above 200 degrees and ideally be water-repellent. Typically, textile fibers of the class 500 to 1000 D are used. “D.” stands for the unit of measurement “denier” and quantifies the weight in grams per 9000 meters of thread length.

With the Z-liner construction, the climate membrane is loosely hung between the inner and outer fabric.

Typical brand names are Cordura (yarn made from cut and spun polyamide fibers), Kevlar (aramid fibers with a melting point of 450 degrees), Keprotec (stretchy blended fabric made from Kevlar and polyamide) or Armacor (Kevlar-Cordura mix from Gore-Tex). Climate membrane are either microporous (Gore-Tex) or coated films (e.g. Sympatex) that allow water vapor molecules to pass through (“breathable”), But let water droplets roll off. They are either glued directly to the outer fabric in several layers (“Laminate”) or (often in summer suits) hung loosely between the outer and inner fabric (“Z-liner”).

Laminate construction: The climate membrane is glued directly to the outer fabric.

Interior fabrics should ensure comfort and insulation. Your starting material: polyester or polyamide. Joint protectors are now standard equipment in motorcycle clothing. In most cases, however, only the minimum package is used: shoulders, elbows and knees are protected, while the hip, which is often battered in a fall, remains defenseless. A similar picture at the back: Often only a thin alibi pad is inserted. A solid, standard-compliant protection must be purchased separately. Joint protectors must conform to EN 1621-1, back protectors to EN 1621-2.

The ones that are currently in fashion Chest protectors will be tested according to EN 1621-3 in the future. On the Sas-Tec drop test bench (www.sas-tec.de), MOTORRAD checked the quality of the protectors from this test based on the relevant standards. There were hardly any real outliers. However, it is all the more annoying that Rukka uses back protection that is only approved according to the joint protector standard.

Test winner: Alpinestars Durban

Relation: Alpinestars, Tel. 0039/0423/5286, www.alpinestars.com;

Price: Jacket 599.95 euros, pants 399.95 euros, set 999.90 euros;

Sizes: 48 to 60; Color: gray / black

Fit and comfort: A snug fit with a high degree of mobility – the Alpinestars suit masters the balancing act between long-distance travel and airy enduro suits particularly well.

Security: Only shoulders, elbows and knees are protected with certified protectors. That is clearly too poor in this price range – even if the shock absorption values ​​are at a high level. Especially since the Durban can clearly do more: on request, the back, chest and hips can also be equipped with standardized protection. However, only at an additional cost. The wide reflective stripes are particularly clearly visible in the jacket and trousers; Suspenders and all-round connection zipper guarantee a secure fit.

Weather protection: The Alpinestars rider finishes the heavy rain ride with a slightly damp step. A slight draft of wind can be felt in the chest area of ​​the jacket on very cold days. On hot days, thanks to the completely removable Gore-Tex insert and correspondingly good ventilation, the climate comfort is right.

Equipment and processing: Neatly processed, clean detailed solutions, manageable and well thought-out structure. Functionally, the suit is convincing.

Conclusion: Durban doesn’t just sound like a long-haul trip, the sum of its properties makes the Alpinestars suit a reliable partner for gnawing miles with GS and Co. However, there is a little lack of rain protection and protection equipment.

MOTORRAD verdict: good.

Rukka Gobi / Kalahari

Relation: Rukka, Tel. 040/5511055, www.rukka.de;

Price: Jacket 849 euros, trousers 549 euros, set 1398 euros;

Sizes: Jacket 46 to 66, pants 46 to 62 plus intermediate sizes, colors: black / gray, blue, gray / beige

Fit and comfort: With a wide cut, the Rukka suit is designed for a comfortable fit during enduro hiking. Without Gore-Tex lining, a clear tendency to flutter is annoying from a speed of 120.

Security: The CE protectors cover shoulders, elbows, hips and knees comprehensively, but on the test bench only show average shock absorption values ​​and
press due to their uncomfortable lattice structure. Particularly confusing: In the back pocket there is a protective padding that is certified according to the joint protector standard and which clearly exceeds the limit values. The secure fit is more appealing thanks to the braces, seat bridge and all-round connection zipper. A real plus point: the eye-catching reflectors on the jacket and trousers.

Weather protection: Pants and jacket overlap only moderately and finally give up after two hours of continuous rain. The result is a wet step. The comfort is good on hot days.

Equipment and processing: A torn trouser zipper spoils the impression of the otherwise solidly made, well-equipped station wagon.

Conclusion:
The bottom line is a very mixed combination. The good fit is diminished by uncomfortable protectors, the weather protection by water ingress in the crotch. Details like hooked zippers and weak magnetic closures are annoying.

MOTORRAD verdict: Satisfactory.

Spidi Ergo 365 Pro

Relation: Shark Helmets, Tel. 04108/458000, www.spidi.com;

Price: Jacket 899.90 euros, trousers 399.90 euros, set 1299.80 euros;

Sizes: M to 3XL;

Colour: black

Fit and comfort: With a comparatively tight cut, the Spidi suit is more of a tight-fitting touring suit than an airy enduro suit. However, the Ergo is suitable for brisk trips with GS and Co. on well-developed roads.

Security: The protection package is extensive and exemplary: all joints, the back and even the chest are covered by large protectors, which also show decent shock absorption values ​​on the test bench. In contrast, the connection zipper is difficult to thread in and difficult to pull. The bottom line is that the reflector performance is only average.

Weather protection: Even the Spidi wearer does not get through the rainy season dry: In the crotch it is first cool, then damp and finally really wet. A cold bridge is annoying in the transition between jacket and pants.

Equipment and processing: With 22 zippers and twelve press studs, putting on and adjusting becomes a test of patience – also for the passengers. Multifunction-
Tational pockets and a hydration system are standard equipment.
On the other hand, there are no standards such as simple Velcro straps for adjusting the hips.

Conclusion: Overall, an overloaded solution for touring enthusiasts, but important details such as z. B. Inside pockets in the jacket are missing. In the rain, the outer fabric soaks up and finally lets the moisture seep through. On the other hand, the protector package is great.

MOTORRAD verdict: Satisfactory.

Stadler Concept / Invention Evo

Relation: Stadler, Tel. 08543 /
96200, www.stadler-bekleidung.de;

Price: Jacket from 999 euros, pants from 619 euros, set from 1618 euros;

Sizes: Men 48 to 62, women 38 to 46 plus intermediate sizes, made-to-measure options available for an extra charge;

colour: Gray / white

Fit and comfort: The Stadler suit convinces with a tight fit on the European tour, but is a bit stubborn due to the innovative structure (rain cover on the outside). On the other hand, nothing flutters after the conversion to an airy summer combination. The boot shaft and glove cuffs can be conveniently stowed under the station wagon.

Security: All joints and the back are covered by neatly positioned protectors, plus a cushioning element on the coccyx. The shock absorption values ​​are okay, especially the generously dimensioned back protector. Long connection zippers and a striking reflector package round off the protective equipment.

Weather protection: When it comes to moisture protection, Stadler does not show any nakedness: Even after hours of driving in the rain, the wearer remains 100 percent dry. On the other hand, it has to be significantly more callous at mild temperatures. An uncomfortable feeling of cold occurs at just under 20 degrees.

Equipment and processing: Except for a torn button, very convincing.

Conclusion: The innovative two-layer concept of the Stadler combination with the Gore-Tex membrane that can be removed from the outside is impressive in bad weather and on particularly hot days. There is no decent feed for the rest of the season.

MOTORRAD verdict: good.
 

Touratech Companero

Relation: Touratech, Tel. 07728 /
92790, www.touratech.de;

Price: Jacket 1099 euros, pants 649 euros, set 1748 euros;

Sizes: Men 48 to 60, women 38 to 44 plus
Intermediate sizes; Color: gray / yellow

Fit and comfort: The Compañero is almost identical to the Stadler Evo, but the cut is trimmed a little towards enduro hiking. The two-layer structure is a bit stubborn here too and, with its noticeably high weight (6 kg, size 50), requires a good level of fitness.

Security: As with Stadler’s partner model, the protector equipment is extensive: shoulders, elbows, hips, knees and back are protected with neatly positioned and well-fitting, CE-standardized protectors. The shock absorption of the back element is particularly good. Circumferential connection zippers and reflectors with high radiance are also part of the standard equipment here.

Weather protection:Dry even in heavy rain for hours, without a membrane jacket and pants, properly ventilated in tropical temperatures. The Touratech station wagon masters extremes well. The problem is the strong feeling of cold, which can set in from 20 degrees downwards.

Equipment and processing: Well thought-out structure, neatly processed, very attractive. The details are very practical.

Conclusion: World tour, we are coming ?? however with the appropriate equipment. The compañero can cope with monsoon rains and tropical heat, but things get poor on normal seasonal days. Appropriate functional underwear is a must here.

MOTORRAD verdict: good.

Hans-Peter Rudolph is press spokesman at W. L. Gore and an enthusiastic motorcyclist.

The Champions League of motorcycle clothing is firmly in Gore’s hands. There really is no other competitor who can hold a candle to you, what is the secret of success?

That “secret” certainly has several facets. On the one hand, there is the passion and commitment of our employees for top performance. Embedded in a culture that encourages creativity, we work continuously on solutions that make life more pleasant, easier and safer and that are based on the highest quality standards. Our company consistently invests an average of eight to ten percent of annual sales in research and development.

The waterproof Gore-Tex leather has convinced in tests. Clear problems had to be with
the waterproof zipper alternative “Lockout” be recorded. A bitter damper for Gore-Tex’s enthusiasm for innovation?

No, not at all, because for over 50 years the continuous development of innovative products with special customer benefits has been the strategic goal of now more than 1000 engineers and scientists in our four business areas of medicine, electronics, industry and textiles. In response to consumer requests, Gore has made product adjustments and has now introduced a silicone oil marker, which is supplied with a lockout closure with every item of clothing. The easy application of a thin silicone layer enables problem-free and smooth operation of the locking system.

Let’s take a look into the future: How will motorcyclists be able to protect themselves from rain in five years’ time, what will bring comfort on hot days?

Comfort is defined differently and perceived differently by everyone – under the same external conditions. Individually adaptable regulations are certainly just as much a future issue here as, for example, waterproof ventilation options. I strongly assume that quality-conscious bikers will also rely on the innovations and newly developed technologies of Gore-Tex products in five years’ time in order to feel comfortable and safe on their bikes.

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