How to choose your motorcycle back protector?

Are motorcycling and physical fitness incompatible? Hell no! Helmet, jacket, gloves , pants, boots: this warrior gear ensures optimum protection in the event of a fall. But there's one key element we rarely think about: the back protector. What does it do? To protect your precious vertebrae, and incidentally, your nervous system. In this article, we give you the keys to choosing the right motorcycle back protector.

There are three different types of motorcycle back protector. Here's how to choose the one that's right for you.

Integrated back protector

Here's the simplest way to protect your precious vertebrae in the event of a stunt with an uncertain landing. How does it work? A protective plate that you slip into the pocket provided in your motorcycle jacket. Lightweight, ventilated and flexible, these reinforcements are quickly forgotten. It's also the most economical solution, with most models ranging from €20 to €50. At those prices, why deprive yourself?

And don't be fooled into thinking it's just a piece of polystyrene with a loose fit! The Furygan D30, for example, is made from an innovative material. What makes it special? It's soft at rest, hard on impact (like other materials, in fact).

But is an integrated backrest a panacea? No, because there's no such thing as a universal model. So, if there's no specific product for your jacket, you'll have to turn to another solution.

----> Furygan D3O level 2 motorcycle back protector

----> Alpinestars NUCLEON KR-2I motorcycle brace

Bib brace

Protective, lightweight and ventilated, this back brace follows the curve of your vertebrae. The shoulder straps support the upper body, while the lumbar belt ensures optimum adjustment around the stomach. Its real strength? It's much more enveloping than the internal backrest. Just look at Richa's D30 model, which protects you from coccyx to neck. What else?

Here again, manufacturers are redoubling their ingenuity to develop materials that are as flexible as they are protective. Special mention goes to Alpinestars with its Soft Bio Foam, a viscoelastic memory foam that protects you while providing the same comfort as a state-of-the-art mattress.

----> RICHA D3O level 2 motorcycle back protector

----> SCOTT AIRFLEX PRO motorcycle back protector Level 2

----> Alpinestars NUCLEON KR-1 CELL motorcycle back protector

Protective vest

Not a fan of the Tyrolean suspenders look? The protective vest is for you. Straight out of the off-road world, this armor is now being democratized for trail and road use. And with good reason: it slips on like a sweater, tucked under your jacket and worn close to the body. It couldn't be more ergonomic. What's the advantage over strapped backpacks? You'll forget you're wearing it much faster, because it really does act like a second skin.

----> Scott SOFTCON HYBRID PRO Level 2 protective vest

Comfort

Combining protection and comfort is no easy task. So when it comes to back protectors, we try to avoid the "straight as an i" or, if you prefer, "stick in the c**" option. How do you go about it? By choosing a flexible or even articulated model. This freedom of movement is all the more appreciable for trail riding, where you'll be doing a bit of motorized gymnastics.

Breathability

This criterion is crucial! Why is it so important? To avoid thinking "I'm taking it off because I'm too hot". So opt for well-ventilated, perforated, lightweight protection. For strapless models and vests, you can opt for those with mesh-like fabrics.

Size

In the case of internal back protectors, there's no need to ask. Just refer to the manufacturer's size guide. For other models? You need to try them on in-store, preferably with all your biker gear. This will ensure that they don't restrict your freedom of movement.

Level of protection

Your use will determine the level of protection you need. For example, an internal back protector will already offer a good level of protection for road use. Are you a trail rider with a taste for adventure? If so, you should opt for a model that protects you from the lower back to the nape of the neck, including lumbar support.

Okay, maybe we're overdoing it with all these standards! But remember, it's for your own safety. So, you've opted for a cheap Chinoiserie, but now you're in doubt? Here are a few points to check.

To meet European safety standards, the label on your back protector must bear the pictogram of a biker and the reference EN-1621-2. Then you'll find the level of protection: 1 or 2. 1 is good, 2 is better.

Finally, the letter B for "Back" indicates that your back protector only protects the back. BL for "Back & Lumbar" means that your spinal armor also protects your lumbar vertebrae.

And that's it! Proud as a porpoise, you can now proudly display your dorsal attribute. We'll never stop saying it: safety is priceless. And even if this equipment isn't compulsory, it would be a real shame to go without. Not satisfied with your thirst for protection? Good news, we'll soon be covering the subject of airbags. On that note, we wish you a safe journey!