Motorcycle racing suits are more than just striking apparel that racers wear as they dart through the track at blinding speeds. These suits not only distinguish riders from each other but also are essential enforcers of safety and protection.
But what are these motorcycle racing suits made of?
The Shell: High-Tech Leather
The main outer shell of a high-end motorcycle racing suit is generally made of leather – usually cow or kangaroo leather. These two types of leathers make the most protective suits due to:
- Displaying high levels of Abrasion resistance
- Being tough and durable
- Retaining some flexibility to allow free movement
Kangaroo leather, in particular, provides a great combination of strength and lightweight and is often found on top-level suits.
Remember, it’s not just about the material but also the thickness of the leather that counts. A suit should be approximately 1.2 to 1.4 mm thick to offer substantial protection.
Safety Stitching
The stitching on a motorcycle racing suit is an important aspect to consider in terms of material and method. High-quality suits use nylon or polyester thread due to their durability and resistance to tearing.
Simultaneously, the stitching method greatly affects the suit’s overall durability. Essential methods usually employed are:
- Double stitching: Adds strength and durability to the seams.
- Hidden stitching: Protects the thread from abrasion during a crash.
- Triple- or Quad-stitching: Present in high-wear areas for extra protection.
Padding and Armor
For further protection, most racing suits have reinforcements in areas more likely to suffer an impact during a crash, usually the shoulders, elbows, knees, and back. These reinforcements can come in two forms:
- Internal Armor: This is built into the suit and generally includes CE (Conformité Européene) approved armor. It’s comfortable and lightweight but highly effective in absorbing impact.
- External Sliders: Made from hard plastic or metal, sliders are placed outside the suit at the knees and sometimes the shoulders or elbows. These add a layer of protection and allow the rider to lean further into turns safely.
Stretch Panels and Perforations
The suit’s functionality is about more than protection. It should be comfortable and flexible for the riders as well. This is why most suits come with:
- Stretch Panels: These are placed in high-mobility areas like the back, knees, and elbows to ensure freedom of movement.
- Perforations: Tiny holes primarily on the torso and legs to aid ventilation and keep the rider cool.
Linings and Hydration Systems
The suit’s interior is typically lined with mesh to wick away the rider’s sweat and make it more comfortable. Some suits even come with a removable and washable liner – great for cleaning after a rugged race.
Moreover, some suits offer built-in hydration systems for those intense, long races. This allows the riders to quench their thirst during a race, essential in hot climates and long journeys.
Motorcycle Racing Suits: Their Importance and Why to Get the Right One
Motorcycle racing suits are a key safety item for protection on and off the race track. Choosing the right suit can increase your comfort and make your ride better.
This gear can help prevent severe injuries, resist abrasion, and provide aerodynamic benefits. Here’s why you should consider getting a good motorcycle racing suit:
Safety First
- Wearing a fitting suit can lower injury risks during high-speed rides.
- Suits are often made of advanced materials like Kevlar, leather, or specialized synthetics that shield your body on the road.
- Strategic padding gives extra protection against impacts and crashes.
Resist Abrasion
- The suit’s key role is to protect from skin abrasion if you skid across the pavement.
- Suits are made from materials that withstand harsh surfaces, lowering the risk of injuries.
- High-quality suits have extra layers in areas prone to abrasion for the best protection.
Get the Right Fit
- Pick a suit that fits snugly but doesn’t restrict your movement for maximum comfort.
- You can get a custom-made suit tailored to your body for the best fit.
- A well-fitted suit ensures that the armor is positioned properly and the suit won’t get caught in your bike or other obstacles.
Aerodynamic Features
- The suits are designed to reduce wind resistance when you’re riding.
- Hump packs on many suits help you maintain an optimal posture during high-speed races.
- The hump pack acts like an air cushion, allowing for faster speeds with less effort.
Built-In Armor And Protection
- Racing suits have built-in armor at key areas like elbows, knees, and shoulders to protect you if you fall.
- For total safety, many quality suits also have back, hip, and chest protectors.
- Remember, a suit’s ability to protect you depends on its quality and armor integration.
Comfort And Confidence Boost
- Many riders need to pay more attention to the value of a proper racing suit, thinking their everyday gear is enough. It’s not!
- A racing suit gives you confidence and lets you ride at your full potential.
- These suits provide better focus, which leads to improved performance and safety.
Final Words
Motorcycle racing suits are as intricate as they are integral to safety. Made from high-quality leather, protective padding, armor, and various design features for comfort, they are a serious investment for anyone interested in racing.
The choice between cow or kangaroo leather, built-in extra protection, and optimal flexibility play a pivotal role in overall racing performance. Therefore, when selecting a racing suit, remember to compromise on style but never safety.