Motorcycle Clothing on ABC Catalyst

[StinkyPete]

On Tuesday 29th March at 8.00pm, the ABC program Catalyst is looking at the effectiveness of motorcycle protective gear.   This might be an interesting program.

[WendyL]

On Tuesday 29th March at 8.00pm, the ABC program Catalyst is looking at the effectiveness of motorcycle protective gear.   This might be an interesting program.

Yep, we'll be watching, thanks for the reminder

[Bluey]

I'll be watching too. Thanks.

[Gadget]

or on ABC iView afterwards.

[alans1100]

I'm likely not to remember it so I better record it

[Diesel]

Thanks for the heads up Pete.     

Cheers, Diesel

[spanner]

Soooo ..... what were peoples thoughts on the program??

[LindsayGT]

What I got out of the program was that there is consideration of a Rating System being implemented.

It's then up to the Rider to choose the level of protection they require.

It's all about choice!

[Biggles]

Soooo ..... what were peoples thoughts on the program??

They simulated hot riding by the subject wearing his protective gear under a heat lamp riding an exercise bike.  He lost 1.5 litres of sweat in the 20 (?) minutes and "hit the wall".  They tested his reactions which were compromised by the workout.  I'd question the validity of the exercise bike equating to the exertion required to ride a m/c.

Denim, nylon and kevlar were tested on a sanding band which rated the kevlar as good for 6 seconds at 28 kph.  The nylon lasted 0 seconds and the denim 2 from memory.

They didn't test armour, which surprised me.  I expected a greater emphasis on the clothing's protective ability, rather than most of the time spent on heat fatigue.

Overall- not very helpful, although it did prove the bleeding obvious.

[ppopeye]

I wondered about the bike too Bill, but at 60 rpm it is veerry gentle pedalling. I guess it does prove that in the heat you get hot. As you said it proves the bleeding obvious. It was over 1.5 hours though.

I think the rating system may be a good idea. At least the gear is tested for the application whereas now its a lottery somewhat. I have armour in my gear but have no idea of its quality and protective powers.

Does anyone recommend a particular jacket for really hot weather?


Sent from my iPad

[Shiney]

.... Does anyone recommend a particular jacket for really hot weather?

Sent from my iPad

Dririder Climate Control Pro 3 




   

   

http://www.bikebiz.com.au/products/Dririder-Climate-Control-Pro-3-Jacket-Black%7B47%7DWhite.html

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Dririder-Climate-Control-Pro-3-Textile-Motorcycle-Jacket-Black-Supersport-Vented-/221559087240


I own the "Dririder Climate Control 2" and find that it is great in the heat while still providing protection (and the "3" is supposed to be even better )

Cheers
Shiney

[StinkyPete]

I read a great article published by the Iron Butt Association covering all issues of hot weather riding.   See  http://www.ironbutt.com/ibmagazine/ironbutt_1002_62-66_Hot.pdf   The bottom line is that in temperatures over about 33C a rider needs to actively seek cooling by use of cooling vest, wetting clothing, along with insulating against engine heat and, wind to prevent overheating.   Below those temps, mesh vests and evaporation of perspiration, along with drinking lots of water will be sufficient to prevent overheating.

My "Take Away" from the program was that overheating is potentially a serious problem, and that Kevlar Garments seemed to provided better abrasion protection that Ballistic Nylon and some leather.   Vents that zip open can compromise the protection that a garment will offer.