New Shoei GT-Air Helmet for 2013

Released earlier this year in Europe, we are hoping to see the Shoei GT-Air make the trek across the Atlantic into the US next year, but have not yet received a formal announcement.

Incorporating many of the newer features found in the Shoei Neotec and the Shoei Qwest, the Shoei GT-Air Helmet is the latest option in the full-face category. The visor, ventilation, and AIM 5-layer shell make for a great combination of safety and comfort. Intentionally positioned at a more aggressive market, the GT-Air will keep you cool when you are burning it up on the street or the track. If you burn a little too much rubber, the emergency release cheekpads assist first responders in getting your helmet off safely and quickly. Although the updated profile and rear spoiler suggest a sport riding mentality, the excellent fit and finish of the GT-Air will likely find its way into the hands of the touring or cruising markets as well.

(Shoei GT-Air Wanderer pictured above in Matte Black, click here for a graphical overview of the GT-Air Wanderer Graphic)

Shoei GT-Air Helmet Review:

We'll keep the product page updated as we learn more details on availability and pricing for this sexy Shoei surprise.

- ckZilla

Shoei J-Cruise Helmet Preview

Earlier this year, we had the opportunity to preview the Shoei J-Cruise Helmet that will be released in Europe in 2013. We hope to see this model in the US market next year, but are awaiting official confirmation.

 While Shoei has produced 3/4 helmets in the past, the Shoei J-Cruise Helmet is a breath of fresh air after a short hiatus in this class. Borrowing technology from the Qwest and the Neotec, the J-Cruise has an optimal ventilation system as well as an interior drop-down sun-visor, which does not compromise shell integrity. Building with superior fit and finish, Shoei will also have a full range of cheek pads and center pads that are fully removable, washable, and interchangeable. As the name implies, and its predecessor confirms, the J-Cruise will be a popular choice for the American V-Twin crowd, however, the sleek lines and improved aerodynamics make it a viable option for city riders or even sport-touring.

Shoei J-Cruise Helmet Review:

Stay tuned for updates on our product pages as we find out more about pricing and availability!

- ckZilla

New ICON Airframe Carbon RR Reveal!

The latest spawn of ICON comes in the form of the ICON Airframe Carbon RR helmet. Beautifully crafted, with the typical edgy ICON DNA, the Carbon RR offers all the same features as the standard Airframe in a lighter package. The carefully woven carbon-fibre shell is wrapped in a clean, attractive graphic that comes in three colors. The Red and Pink options deliver a grayscale skin, etched with Red and Pink pinstripe detailing respectively. The Blue scheme steps it up a notch, combining the black carbon, with red detailing and a gorgeous blue overlay that is a refreshing beverage for your eyes.

I expect Blue to be the most popular, akin to the previous ICON Airframe Carbon Lifeform in white. The Red and Pink are subtle in comparison without betraying the ostentatious heart of the brand. Regardless of whether we agree on the best color, adding another premium option to the carbon-fibre world is a smart move for sure! We look forward to these being available in early December.

Time will tell whether the ICON Airframe Carbon RR is the new king-of-the-hill for premium fibre helmets. However, our experience with ICON is that they've got the guts to take the glory!

-- ckZilla

REV'IT! 2013 Leather Gloves

Power up! The last few spring items from REV'IT! complete the circuit. Behold, a new source of protection: The 2013 leather gloves. This multi-pronged attack leaves us with two charged new options to plug and play.

Traditionally, double-cuff enclosures have been reserved for the highest voltage gloves, like the Jerez. Now, for under $200, you can get this energizing feature with the REV'IT! Stellar gloves. Though not a gauntlet glove, the Stellar is a long-cuff cowhide blueprint with goatskin palms for optimal feeling at point of contact. Reinforced with hard-shell finger and knuckle protectors, the Stellar also includes a Dual-comp palm slider and Temperfoam padding at the index finger, thumb and wrist. This race fit glove is an aggressive option for street riding, or perhaps a budget solution to the occasional track day. Either way, you are assured in the high-fidelity protection that REV'IT! generates across the board.

Positioned just over the Monster gloves, the REV'IT! Chevron gloves are a clean choice with re-newed styling. Taking styling cues from the RSR or SLR and hard parts from the curb, the Chevron will amp your gear closet with three colorways: Black/White, White/Black and White/Red. These moderately perforated gloves will be most comfortable in the summer, but should wire into your spring/fall setup with ease. The REV'IT! Women's Chevron gloves are also available, proving to be a popular sport option for both rider and passenger - I'll leave it to you to fight over which gets pillion!

When the grid goes dark, don't be caught without juice! Tend to your supply of REV'IT! gear to make sure your battery is at full capacity.

- ckZilla

REV'IT! 2013 Leather Jacket Preview

Not so long ago
in a country kind of far, far away....

 The REV'IT! empire was born.  Known for high quality gear as 

well as being slightly secretive. We have managed to intercept the plans for a few 

of their newest leather jackets in an attempt to help you prepare for your next mission.

The REV'IT! Stellar Jacket has you covered for warp speeds with revised Dual-comp protectors at the shoulders and elbows backed by ProLife CE approved armor (the same armor used in their race suits). The new pieces have a smaller profile to improve comfort and flexibility without reducing protection.  A long or short connection zipper completes the bond to a pair of pants for track duty or paved road shenanigans. Taking over the Tarmac Air Leather Jacket slot in the model line, the Stellar is better suited to temperatures on Endor rather than Tatooine (think less perforation), a detachable body warmer vest is included too.  While not warm enough for Hoth, it should help to take the chill out when ripping around Cloud City.  The Aero hump has disappeared and provides for a cleaner look, while the rear deflector shield (back protector) pocket is designed to accept the new CE 2 certified Seesoft back protector insert.  The Stellar will be available in Black/White and Black/Red in Euro sizes 46-58, Hyperdrive not included.

The next model we found in our R2 unit was the REV'IT! Galactic Jacket.  Prepared to conquer multiple atmospheres in style.  The Galactic is comprised of a Leather/Dynex mesh hull with a removable Hydratex waterproof liner, this is the Phoenix Jacket reborn.  Rising from the ashes the Galactic fills a hole in your jacket fleet when looking for maximum protection and increased airflow.  On warm summer days the Challenger cooling vest can be added in place of the Hydratex liner for the ultimate in warm weather performance.  ProLife CE rated armor provides impact protection in the shoulders/elbows and the optional Seesoft back protector upgrade will cover your rear flank. This new back protector is rumored to transmit less then 6 kn of force (3 kn less then the minimum requirement for CE 2 certification).  Impressive, most impressive!  A REV'IT! Women's Galactic Jacket will join the armada as well.  The women's jacket has a sleek profile and includes all of the features of the men's version. Color options are White/Black or Black/White, either way this jacket will be a great asset on your next crusade.  

With names like space ships, it's hard not to poke a little fun at the 2013 REV'IT! leather Jacket line.  All kidding aside, these look like some intriguing updates and should create some disturbances in the Force.

- Santini
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