Friday, February 18

Alpinestars SP-1 Race Suit Review

With one simple addition and a slight redesign over the previous model, the Alpinestars SP-1 Race Suit has become even more functional than its predecessor. With its standout slick design, high levels of performance, safety, and improved ergonomics, this suit is a great choice at the $899 price point. It doesn't have all of the futuristic over-the-top features that the MotoGP racer needs in his suit; it is simply a great choice from Alpinestars for the spirited sport rider and the track day enthusiast.

Check out our Alpinestars SP-1 Race Suit Review:



The first thing that needs to be addressed is the addition of external TPU shoulder sliders to the SP-1. A major upgrade over the previous model, the TPU sliders provide protection from impact and abrasion in a get off situation, encouraging a continuous slide and preventing the dreaded tumbling. Beyond that, this suit is a premium 1.3mm full-grain leather construction with large perforation zones and strategically placed aramidic stretch panels. Aramid panels function both for flexibility but also allow air to flow through the suit. Movement is also encouraged by the accordion stretch leather panels found above the knees, above the elbows, at the backs of the shoulders and a huge panel at the lower back.

Internally, Alpinestars uses its CE rated GP armor for the elbows, shoulders, and knee/shin protectors. The GP armor is a hard part injection molded shell backed with shock absorbing dual density foam for a double level of protection. There is a multi-position snap connection system for the CE level 2 Alpinestars Bionic Race Back Protector and compartments in the chest to upgrade to the Alpinestars Bionic Chest Pads. The PU GP knee sliders are fully replaceable and the aerodynamic dual density back hump helps with airflow at speed and also protects in a crash situation to keep the head elevated from the ground. The SP-1 suit utilizes safety stitching in all of the seams for tear resistance and, of course, YKK zippers throughout.

The mesh liner in this suit is also removable and washable which significantly extends its longevity; there's nothing worse than a funky race suit. With a comfort collar and cuffs, autolocking YKK zips at the cuff for a secure closure, and an overall tremendous design, the Alpinestars SP1 Race Suit is a great choice for the devoted track day rider and spirited weekend sport rider. To see other options in this realm, visit our Alpinestars Race Suits and Motorcycle Race Suits pages.

-RetroZilla

Related:
Alpinestars Spring 2011 Gear Overview
Alpinestars S-MX 2 Air Carbon Glove Review
Alpinestars GP-R Leather Jacket Review
Alpinestars SMX-Plus Race Boots Review

No comments:

Post a Comment

Related Posts with Thumbnails