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Air Bag vest vs. back protector

matty

matty

Well-known member
Joined
May 19, 2004
Location
Oakland
Moto(s)
Doctor650 and lil buddy
Name
see above
I'm an all the gear kind of guy, I always ride with in full armor. I rarely use my airbag vest though. This weekend I rode around 350 miles in the Sierra with my airbag vest sans back protector (currently have some back issues that the back protector exacerbates). So what do you guys say, is an airbag vest a suitable replacement for the back protector? I'm of the mind to wear both when my back is better, but it sure was more comfortable just wearing the vest.

Thoughts on airbag vs back protector?

Scotty, I'd be particularly interested in your input.

And thanks in advance.
 
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I don't think it is a replacement for a dedicated back protector. I see it as a complementary device that helps enhance your level of protection.
I think they should be used together and not exclusive of each other.
 
Back protector seems more reliable to me than an air bag vest. If I had to choose one I'd take the back protector.
 
Why not use both? On my MLV-C Hit Air vest, I attach one of these to the existing velcro.

It's light enough so you don't feel it, especially since it's on the outside.
 
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NSR500 said:
I don't think it is a replacement for a dedicated back protector. I see it as a complementary device that helps enhance your level of protection.
I think they should be used together and not exclusive of each other.
Click to expand...

:thumbup They are Two different things, doing Two different jobs.
 
airrix said:
Why not use both? On my MLV-C Hit Air vest, I attach one of these to the existing velcro.

It's light enough so you don't feel it, especially since it's on the outside.
Click to expand...

This is my set-up as well. I don't even notice the protector.
 
Thanks for the replies every one. I pretty much share everybody's opinion, I was just curious if anybody had a compelling reason to use just one over the other.

And I'll certainly look into getting an insert.

Thanks again
 
I wear both. If I could only have one it would be the vest as it protects far more than your back. In particular they have the awesome advantage of "locking" your helmet/head in place so it does not whip around as well as rib, chest and kidney protection. Lastly, there has been a recent debate over any effectiveness of back protectors. It's going to remain ATGATT for me! I can't imagine leaving an air vest at home, they are so little hassle.
 
airrix said:
Why not use both? On my MLV-C Hit Air vest, I attach one of these to the existing velcro.

It's light enough so you don't feel it, especially since it's on the outside.
Click to expand...

I've been air vest shopping and hadn't considered the ability to strap a chest and back protector on it. Do you know if only the MLV-C Hit Air offers this?

How does this play with the CE foam in textile touring jackets? How about bulky leather jackets?
 
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