Choosing a right back protector
Content
There are more and more back protectors on the market, often signed by the biggest brands: All One Bender, Alpinestars Bioarmor, BMW Rear Reinforcement 2, Dainese Wave G1 or G2, IXS, Speed Warrior Spins Evo ... So how do you get out? How do I know the level of protection? Is there a comfortable back protector that still provides protection?
Do you want to know everything quickly and concisely? This file is for you! If you have 5 million, I invite you to read our large complete file on highways.
Spine
There are two main types of highways:
- integrated (often standard on jackets) and
- additional (purchased separately and usually worn on the back, under a jacket).
Integrated elements are often a simple piece of foam covering a small part of the back ... "better than nothing," some will say, but not enough to provide real protection in the event of a fall or slip.
Defining a good spine
A good spine is primarily the spine that covers the entire back from the cervical to the lumbar, like a lobster. It is also an approved base.
A warning ! Sign presence “CE” does not guarantee compliance with homologation requirements ! You will need a small logo representing the biker, especially the mention of EN 1621-2.
The rider must also have a B on the back for back protection (B for back) or L (for lumbar). Above should be the number 2 in a box.
Meaning of the CE EN 1621-2 certificate
The CE EN 1621-2 certification means that the enclosure is approved for the rear, level 2 (2 enclosed in a box) and that the transmitted force is less than or equal to 9 kN after a 5 kg weight has dropped from 1 meter of the enclosure. ...
- 1621-2 gets 18 Knewton
- 1621-1 gets 35 knewtons, which is 4 times more than 1621-2, level 2.
Imagine without a shell !!!!!
The “foam” protection built into many jackets gets 200 knewtons under the same conditions….
Don't rely on the appearance of your spine. Thickness and weight are not always synonymous with efficiency and protection.
Try
The back protector must be the right size and can be tried on ... like any garment. It is really important that the spine does not interfere with movement.
Comparison of backbone networks
The Dainese Wave 2: 125 euros
BM CE 1621-2, level 2: € 159
Speed warrior on the back evo, CE 1621-2, level 2: € 100
Knox compact 10, CE EN 1621-2: €85
La Held Sokudo, EN 1621-2, level 2: € 85
Held is attached to braces, it is better than when it goes under the armpits, BM has 2 attachment points: the sternum with clavicle and pelvic protection.
The BM has the greatest overlap, in particular the shoulder blades, the back ribs and the lumbar region, the force transmitted here is from 5 to 6 knewtons, which is less than the norm. Articulated, airy ... I haven't been that hot this summer.
The best protection is offered by BM, Spidi and Held.
Spidi is well ventilated with a very active ventilation system that allows air to pass between the garment and the back protector. The back protector adapts to riders of all sizes thanks to the micrometric adjustment at the waist.
The Knox Aegis has three strengths: ventilation, ultra-lightness and compactness, and has highly efficient ventilation ducts to prevent moisture build-up. The new torsion bar system provides comfort and protects the pilot in any position. In addition to the adjustable shoulder straps, the waist belt is adjustable to 6 height points.
The big positive about BM (besides its complete protection and anchorage to prevent slipping) over some of its competitors is that scratches tend to resist better over time. The Dainese wave 2 is more for track with a lateral articulation in the lumbar region to avoid interfering with rocking, and a honeycomb construction for easier air circulation. Choose now by giving it a try.
