Before Buying Adventure or Dual Sport Motorcycle Gear... Watch This

[@BigRockMoto]

Well - do you prefer separate or integrated armor and why? ➕➕GEAR THAT I'VE TESTED AND RECOMMEND➕➕ ➕ARMOR➕ ⚡ Moose Body Armor: bit.ly/3IuoTyn ⚡REV'IT! Proteus Armored Shirt: imp.i104546.net/jrmgxM ⚡REV'IT! Scram Knee Guards: imp.i104546.net/xkZPAy ⚡ Leatt Knee / Shin Guards: bit.ly/3twN8Fu ⚡Alpinestars Bionic Shirt: imp.i104546.net/KjLYNy ⚡Leatt 3DF Airfit Shirt: imp.i104546.net/LXqYNo ⚡Leatt Airfit Knee Guards: imp.i104546.net/9gPBYj ⚡Leatt 3DF Shorts: imp.i104546.net/5gQBN3 ⚡Protection sold by Mosko Moto: tinyurl.com/5n7yw8pa ➕HOT WEATHER ADV SUITS➕ ⚡Mosko Moto Jerseys/Jackets: tinyurl.com/3ye6sjxp ⚡ Klim Baja S4: imp.i104546.net/oeGVN9 ⚡ REV’IT Cayenne: imp.i104546.net/NkKZzK ⚡ REV’IT Sand 4: imp.i104546.net/Zd2g1z ⚡ Sedici Marco 2: imp.i104546.net/3ePnAk ⚡ Alpinestars Bogota Pro: imp.i104546.net/nLzME6 ⚡ Alpinestars Halo: imp.i104546.net/GmDVP6 ➕COLD WEATHER / WATERPROOF SUITS➕ ⚡Mosko Moto Jackets: tinyurl.com/ywfszynk ⚡ MSR Voyager: bit.ly/40YqWmO ⚡ MSR Xplorer: bit.ly/3SjxHwk ⚡ Klim Carlsbad: imp.i104546.net/BXGB5L ⚡ Badlands Pro A3 Jacket: imp.i104546.net/6ezPxN ⚡ REV'IT! Echelon GTX: imp.i104546.net/XY9Rx4 ➕BASE AND MID LAYERS➕ ⚡MSR Base Layers: bit.ly/3K3bQ8s ⚡MSR Mid-Layers: bit.ly/3Ikkyi1 ⚡Mosko Graph and Strata: tinyurl.com/mpyx7m22 ⚡ Mosko Moto Ectotherm Jacket: bit.ly/3GJUax6 ⚡Klim Aggressor: imp.i104546.net/Jz0YPr ➕SUPPORT➕ [I may receive commissions which are invested back into the channel] ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Pacific Powersports (Motoz Tires, Barkbusters): pacificpowersports.com/ USE CODE BRM2024 ⚡ 3D Cycle Parts: www.3dcycleparts.com/?aff=3 ⚡ Taco Moto : tacomoto.co/?ref=fi6gv640 ⚡ Cyclops Adventure Sports: tinyurl.com/2kaknpfn ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@royarnab22]

Could you please do a review on AdventureSpec Supershirt? Especially in summer conditions.

[@sjmthibault]

Integrated for the top, because I want abrasion resistance. And mix for pants, because those adventures pants are not really good at impact resistance. He knee guard always slips out when standing and never settles back.

[@JirkaMotoVista]

In my case separate but constructed from abrasion-resistant materials so I can wear it as a stand-alone jacket/pants or as a protective base under any jacket/pants I have.

[@JirkaMotoVista]

Knox armoured shirt or jacket starting with single A and ending with AAA, can be worn on its own with enough abrasion resistance and impact protection. You can add chest protection… that’s my choice + layering approach. Nice one Ian.👍

[@lonelylobster_9829]

No to mention it is a part of a 3 piece system, with a thermo jacket for warmth and a rain suit for rain and snow

[@4xterra829]

Knox armour with a down jacket and the revit component h2o. That's what im wearing for traveling. And a I have a normal jacket with armour from Bering for the daily home - work commute

[@pavelshchors]

I came here to write about Knox. You get protection and slide resistance in one piece. And then you could ride in jersey on highways

[@promoskow]

Revit Proteus is positioned for on-off road riders. If you want to compare apple with apple you gotta take the Revit Nucleus as the direct competitor of Knox armoured shirts, which pretty much do the same and is possibly a stand alone jacket itself

[@Eddie_Turbo]

I had the Knox AA suit, felt very restrictive compared to proper MX armour. So really depends on your definition of off-road. Is it proper enduro or just some light trails??

[@donnieyoung2774]

I'm old enough and riding long enough that I have both options in gear set up. I just go with whatever the conditions dictate. A very useful and informative video. Cheers !

[@matt_kelly]

The word I like to use is "modular" gear. I just did a trip from PNW Canada to Mexico (90% highway) - separate armor made the most sense since the temperatures varied pretty widely. I carried a Klim Dakar jacket, a jersey and a rain layer and various combinations of them worked from 35F to about 80F. The problem was it was always a song and dance to get my armor off when I was just stopping off for a five minute taco/coke. I'm now planning a trip to the artic and it makes the most sense to go with an integrated jacket since the temperatures won't vary as widely. It's also more comfortable to wear since you don't have all the layers bunching up on eachother, which would cause chaffing when I was being active on the bike. I will be doing mostly highway or FSR so I'm not too worried about being stuck in traffic and overheating, which can be an issue as well.

[@Yowzoe]

What an exciting trip up North! Any change in your layering plan?

[@Alexanderpaal67]

Thanx for this. All makes sense. I ride mostly in the arctic climates of Scandinavia & do approx 60/40 (onroad/offroad). After My accident that i luckily escaped with «only» a fractured shoulder i have come to realise the importance of proper gear & Adequat protection. During the accident i wore: Klim Carlsbad jacket, kevlar jeans, Klim gloves, adventure boots & Shoei Neotech2. All did its job perfectly. Allthough now i never drive without My Alpinestar airtech 5 vest that goes under my jacket. This allows me to remove the ingrated back & shuolder pads. On a hot day (rarely happens here though) i can use a jersey with added elbow protectors with the airbag vest under or a mesh jacket. Am concinviced the airbag technology is gettin better & more affordable now & way to go. Safety first… Cheers from Norway 🇳🇴

[@rodlq]

Beautiful story

[@ruedigerfriebel8454]

Nicely done, I absolutely agree. In winter I swap my armour from the armour shirt directly in the jacket, so go integrated. In summer I go again for separate, it is ways to hot with integrated

[@chillyinalberta]

Finally someone made this! Cheers. I wear separate armour but it's definitely not always convenient.

[@sattvicvelo3506]

Separate all the way. That being said I had the same concern about abrasion resistance as you mention. I've manage to find two separate armor manufacturers of quality armor layer jackets (both out of EU as it happens) that are AAA (bowtex elite shirt) and AA (Knox Men's Urbane Pro) rated and use both. Each has chest armor, is light weight, breathable and offer the option to be secured via your belt to your pants. For leggings I mostly use certified riding jeans. Depending on the weather / type of ride I bring a variety of outer layers just like I do when mountainbiking, hiking, snowboarding etc. I come from an adventure sports background, not from riding dirt bikes, but the principle seems much the same to me and layering just seems natural. I hardly ride any dirt to be honest - mostly just enjoy the amazing mountain roads Japan has to offer. Love your channel and content mate. Thanks for doing this.

[@TheIdlesurfer]

I've ridden a lot of the Trans Euro Trail, from north of the Arctic Circle to Southern Portugal with temperatures of between 4 degrees Celsius and wet to hovering around 40 degrees Celsius in blazing sun. I have exactly the same kit for any trip. Merino long vest and pants, knee braces, Adventure Spec Supershirt, puffy jacket that goes over the supershirt, Klim waterproofs, AS Tech 7 boots. If I'm expecting cold, a light close fitting windproof layer seals the Supershirt up nicely. If I'm mostly road, I'll swap out knee braces for Klim cargo pants and street boots, but for a long trip with variable weather, this kit works. A separate waterproof layer means my kit never wets out.

[@vplph]

very interesting video... alternative setup; tshirt (long or short sleeve) + summer mesh level 2 jacket (still ok for having a coffee on a terrace) + warmer layer with wind protected on the front side + waterproof layer / motorbike jeans + lightweight rain trousers ; light, easy to remove , nothing stays wet the day after , you always wear protection (also on short rides to grocery in the morning where the stupid accidents happen most often), plus the vented jacket with level 2 has a certain thickness that ventilates sweat very well under other layers!!!! tested on looong rides

[@AT2021Rocker]

One of your best videos ever Ian!

[@seanhewitt2521]

I switched to separate armor about 18 years ago. I wear base, armor, any thermal and or abrasion on top. Works well for me. I like the system.

[@aka_pierre]

There's a really easy solution to your concern about a mesh pressure suit not having abrasion resistance: knox's urbane pro mk2. It's AA rated which is fine for adv riding. I was in a head on crash with my knox kit on, emerged mostly ok.

[@heather_the_plant]

I've been in multiple low speed crashes as well and the armor works great for absorbing sharp rock hits.

[@SquareHelmet]

I switched to separate armor after a fall: I was wearing jacket with integrated armor and it moved out of the way during the fall and I needlessly hurt myself (I did a video on that). I really think separate armor is the way to go: I actually agree with your video that there are no real downsides to it (takes longer to put on or add layer doesn't really count as a downside, maybe just a slight inconvenience). Thank you for the great video!

[@Vahu19]

cheers for everything Ian!! Hope that you will consider knee protection next...guards, braces and so on.

[@michaelharrison1562]

Interestingly, or perhaps oddly, Ryan over at Fort Nine says we should all throw our armor away! But starting from the assumption that armor can be effective however, as I do, this is a useful video… thanks! Over forty years of experience and (ahem) research (read crashing) has made me an ATGATT kinda guy, and I know firsthand the value of good quality armor in the right places. The key is finding the right balance between comfort, convenience and protection, so that I actually will wear that gear all the time.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

I have my Dual sport system and ADV bike system in Australia. BUT I wear the same separate Armoured , As it’s a KNOX - Urban pro 2 it’s also abrasion resistant on Asphalt as well ( so one Separate Armoured does both ) Summer for both is easy , sweat shirt , Separate Armour and a Fox Legion- in the full or take off to Vest format - Dual sport , enduro and ADV I use the Fly Racing 2XL ( it’s a bit thinker and warmer and water resistant which is better for road and ADV - as a bonus can also take sleeves off and use as vest , With both just need to go up say 2 sizes ) I’m a large and will go up to say 2XL , trousers again Knox - for Dual sport , enduro Knox pants only - abrasion resistant as well - for the trips to the bush . Long Boots . ADV / Road riding my John Doe Stocker Cargo AAA rated and shorter boots - long trips walking around etc . And if it rains Road , ADV my Revit Dirt series- 100% waterproof apparently ( but it’s not 😂😂😂) and Dual Sport just a light weight pull over waterproof compact parts if need to put in backpack. And obviously what warm gear you want to put over Jacket on winter.And agree can be a pain laying over in Armour. Maybe 🤔 with full integrated Jacket in winter and UnderArmour in Summer ?

[@TarikScoots]

My choice and imo the best option is basing my riding outfit around an armor jacket underneath a Rev'it Sierra Jersey. Its the only jersey I found that is certified abrasion resistand for street use. on top of the jersey I can layer my temperature control accordingly and finish it of with a weatherproof enduro jacket (with zip of sleeves). Gives you protection on and off road and I can use the layers to my advantage

[@RomulusReemus]

Why isn't the amour considered abrasion resistant on its own? Is the argument that the material properties of the pads makes them immediately disintegrate? Hard to accept the pads aren't as good as abrasion resistant thin cloth. (I'm a layering guy)

[@TarikScoots]

@@RomulusReemusThere is actually abrasion resistant armor (I think I saw some from Scoot), but that was out of my budget. And yea, for abrasion resistance you need some woven fibres like aramid that don't melt and desintegrate with road contact. pads are usually just some sort of foam that are made for shock absorbtion. Imagine you're falling onto your mattress and dragging that same mattress behind a car and look at the damage. One thing is gonna work, the other won't

[@Shadow9091]

Bowtex and ADV Supershirt should also be considered. I have the Bowtex Elite Shirt and pant and they are great! AAA rated, very light weight, and cool to the skin.

[@Cbsmd-zq4zx]

Damn that Bowtex looks great with AAA and also belt loops and long back. Jacket doesn’t come w all padding though, have to order those separately I think (back plate). But looks great. Adv super shirt looks like Revit nucleus which I have w CE AA rating. I use a class B mesh dirt jersey over my nucleus, but it doesn’t have that belt loop connector so can’t be AAA

[@mfranquemont1884]

Has anyone owned both Bowtex and super shirt? I would like to hear about their fit (us vs euro, long vs short arm), ability to flow air, comments on armour, and weight (with and without armour). It seems this solution; ce rated, next to skin suit/armour is the way to go!

[@Blindranger]

This is obviously a paid ad for Mosko Moto, but the Adventure Spec SuperShirt solves most of cons of the separate armor.

[@roadwarrior8560]

One thing that never sits right with me is knee armour in an integrated pants, I need to find knee armour that I can use with multiple pants, something that fits to the body and is comfortable! if it's not comfortable I'm not wearing it. Great video as always.

[@wingsqc]

I got a KNOX shirt which is rated second degree protection armor AND abrasion. It is essential here in South Texas to have all the ventilation you can have. I have a sensitive neck which need to be protected from wind and sun. I add a light jacket layer over (bicycle jacket) with a high neck which would not be easy to find with the motorcycle brands. This cycling jacket is also designed for riding position and have a lowered back coverage and the other added gizmos for specialized comfort. I am strict to select full front zippers. I can keep the top layer over the safety shirt and the duo is put on in one go like an integrated jacket. As I do not use highway, this light setup works for me well. Thanks for being in my subscription list! 🙂

[@ronanrogers4127]

I’ve used the Forcefield stretchy shirts and pants for years. When it’s summer I simply put their excellent armour in my Adv jacket/trousers. Other seasons the stretchy fabric is great because it holds the armour exactly in the right place and also is an insulating layer. Great CE2 protection

[@Sabortooftigar]

Coming into motorcycling from wilderness guiding, the layering system integrates better with my existing layering framework, and as a new rider with a small dual sport living in western MT I also expect to do more off road or gravel than on road for quite some time. I also get too warm much easier than too cold. This was a good video to check this out for an overview of both!

[@DmitriyAdv]

Great video! I think it's good to have both options and wear what's fitting for the ride. Something to keep in mind is that in really hot/dry conditions at any sort of speed wearing a jacket is actually going to keep you cooler than a jersey or t-shirt or whatever. A jacket will help keep the sun off your skin and controlled ventilation will allow sweat to work more efficiently. A jersey or t-shirt or something will just let sweat dry off without a cooling effect.

[@ohTHATaaronbrown]

Totally agrre that the best option, budget allowing, is to have good sets of gear for either path, and then to choose based on what the specific ride or trip will entail.

[@MatthewSmith-rq9gz]

This was unreal helpful. SO comprehensive for a new ADV rider. Thank you for putting it together.

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sanjosejeff]

Hey Ian. I go back and forth between both types of suits. Sometimes I still put a chest protector and elbow pads underneath klim jacket so I can lose it off road. Another big help has been the Mosko extotherm heated jacket as less layers are needed and it can also be easily shed. That and heated grips and seat. Allow the bike to provide thermal insulation so less is needed in your body. Lately my house has given awesome thermal protection as I nurse a torn shoulder after surgery from sliding down the road and dislocating😂😢😢

[@stephenpotts8170]

Hi Ian, you raised some excellent points, especially about ill fitting gear causing armour to move on impact, you still see riders with far to loose gear being worn, and hear in the UK what really upsets me is in the summer riders not wearing any protection at all. Never been much for legislation, but for me this should probably be an area it's needed. Thank you.

[@WeaverGr997]

Thanks for another great vid Ian! I see you had a Revit Proteus. I wonder if you're planning a comparison of different options of 'pressure suits'? I'm thinking about a lightweight setup to take travelling with me along with my Carlsbad suit as I'll be doing a fair bit of slab to/from the area I'll be riding as well as some cool weather on the way home. The Revit looks like a nice piece of kit but would love to see you compare some options!

[@adrianm.1910]

I tried Revit's Stratum this year, which implements some of these ideas. They didn't get everything right, but it's a step in the right direction. One thing not mentioned in the video that I hate about integrated suits is how unpackable they are when you have a day off or a ferry ride. I'll keep the Stratum jacket and separate armour with the pants for now.

[@TheChopcat]

It would be interesting to hear youur thoughts on air bag vests and when and where they are appropriate. For me i tend to turn the tecair5 off when off road and rely on the armor. Thoughts?

[@Odomas]

Another option is something like the Adventure Spec supershirt. CE approved armour and abrasion resistance in a single baselayer top that you can put anything over the top of.

[@BadDadio]

While I enjoy your riding videos, this is one of your best yet. You presented both sides of the argument and leave it to the viewer to decide which is best for them. I started adventure biking a few years ago and bought the integrated gear. Reasons were that was what I thought you were “supposed to wear”. This summer I will invest in regular dirt bike gear. I think both gear types are needed, at least where I ride in SoCal. I under the budget concerns for some people but you don’t have to buy everything all at once.

[@chrisssinstockholm]

One parameter that made me switch to separate armor is packaging bulk. Have a long trip planned. Will encounter temperatures from freezing to desert. Will bring mesh + Gore Tex + thermal layers. Without integrated armor it will take up less space and weigh less when packed. If it's really hot I can ride in body armor only for upper body and mesh pants.

[@amygardiner2278]

I'm strictly a street rider and I've recently switched over (mostly) to the Knox "seasonless" (layering) system: separate armored shirts, knee armor, armored shorts, gloves, etc. I got tired of the integrated knee armor never falling in the right place for my short legs, or just plain cheap & uncomfortable armor that won't stay put. Wish I'd switched to Knox years ago! Cons are that, as Ian says, it takes longer getting dressed to ride & can be warmer. Also, I have a couple close-fitting leather jackets under which I don't have room for an armored shirt & then I use a thin armor like Knox Microlock compact, Sas-tec, or D30 Ghost armor for elbows, shoulders and whatever good-quality back protector fits the pocket. Lots of layering in the winter & mesh in the summer works well for the extreme annual temperature variations where I live.

[@ThisTall]

I think Mosko’s theme of non integrated padding is best for regulating heat. But I do think removable sleeves is the best way to reduce overheating without having to remove a coat on a warm day.

[@ashole2424]

I have integrated gear for the road or commuting, but when I am going off road, I wear a merino base layer on top with the forcefield ex-k system and a jacket with all armour removed, and fitted knee armour down bottom. Even though I'm in Australia with generally higher temps, the merino works well in regulating temp, but if it gets too hot and I'm going slow, I just remove the jacket. So, both. Works well for me.

[@Tony-zp8xn]

For me, my base protection is an Icon Mesh AF jacket (hi-viz, of course) and Klim Induction pants. Excellent in hot weather. Additional, is a Thor Terrain jacket, which helps with colder weather and offers some rain protection, as it's only water resistant, but still has pretty excellent ventilation. If I really need to stay warm/dry, I'll add on my North Face ThermoBall Eco Shirt jacket under the Mesh AF, and Gore-Tex over pants. I wanted to have one set that would be adaptable to various conditions, without having to swap pieces out. So far, this setup has been great for me. Only time will tell if I need to make any additional changes.

[@plattenschielerlp7796]

This is the kind of video I always seached for, thank you!

[@davidius34]

Greetings from the Czech Republic. Great as always! I just became your supporter. Good luck to you!

[@porkshank13]

I do not own all this gear yet but my plan is to buy the Pando Moto Commando shirt which is AAA (similar to Bowtex Elite and Knox Honnister) and for adventure riding that involves off road wear a hard armor back and chest protector over that and for strictly road riding wear a Helite air bag vest instead of the hard armor. I want to be as protected as possible but I am also a total wimp when it comes to heat. This seems to be the best set up so far. My next choice would be the new REV'IT Nucleus jacket (AA rated) with one of their DIRT series jerseys that are B rated (equivalent to A I believe). The REV'IT jacket has more impact protection than the other options (Bowtex, Knox, and Pando Moto).

[@johannescarlsson4559]

I think there´s a good oportunity for you to review a few more examples of abrasion+armour mesh gear. Like Knox Urbane Pro MK3, Adventure Spec Supershirt, Pando Moto Commando, Bowtex Elite and Richa Bodyguard 2. Strikes me stange Revit didn´t put abrasion resistance on their pressure suit or at least a varant with it I also wish there were some better weather jackets out there. Either i get a slim packlight one or i would actually apreciate vent zippers on a separate rain layer for those half warm rides

[@johnpagejr.7628]

I have found a cooling vest works very well in hot weather under my full water proof armored jacket. The one that I have is from a company in California called TECHNICHE and the vest is called HYPERKEWL evaporated cooling. It says on the vest to submerge in water for 1 to 2 minutes but I at one point had no way to do that so I lade it down on the pavement and poured a bottle of water over it very slowly to wet the whole vest and it worked very well for about 2 to 3 hours in 90 degree heat.

[@lj1177]

If there's any chance I'm heading for dirt or on a long trip: Adventure Specs Super Shirt (high abrasion rating plus AA), plus my own layering gear (no different than if I went skiing). In the city or commuting: integrated armor in leather jacket or mesh jacket.

[@jaytee92]

Just get a base layer that fits over your armor and an abrasion resistant non armored jacket that can fit layers.

[@derReisender21]

Great video!! I wear a Klim Baja jacket and use a layering scheme. I don't like wearing a rain jacket the entire time I'm riding. The Baja is better on both accounts. It's not a rain jacket and it is much cooler than a separate armor layer. A separate armor layer snug against the skin in hot, humid weather is miserable, just like an integrated suit with Gore-Tex or some other waterproof membrane. I remember a few years ago checking out the Mosko Moto Basilisk series. Overpriced (IMHO), waterproof, and no pockets to hold armor. Basically a GoreTex-like-shell-on-steroids price. For pants, I've found nothing that performs better safety-wise and is more comfortable that my AAA rated blue jeans, on- and off-road.

[@logangodofcandy]

I bought my first jacket that had no armor slots and I wanted to add some, so I bought a street and steel riding jacket and d30 ghost pads. I tell you, layering sucks, but that jacket was loose and comfortable fitting, so the shirt and ghost pads fit as nice as my other fully armored jacket. Make sure you have mobility and feel good.

[@geddstock]

I wear motocross pants with motocross boots and knee guards,then on top I have a 3 layer jacket which I remove the inner 2 layers for off roading,then I roll the 2 layers plus cheapo waterproof leggings into a small package and strap it to the bike. Works for days out in the uk👍

[@Hoshi_Toranaga]

Most comfy System for me builds around the KLIM Marrakesh upgraded with Level 2 Ghost armor. Is it hot: Klim -1 Base and Marrakesh. Does it get chilly KLIM Zephyr under the Marrakesh. If it gets cold I have a slim down jacket to put under and merino wool baselayer. In Case of Rain Scott Rainjacket/pants over and honestly for pants I love the John Doe riding jeans which are single layer but AAA and level 2 ghost armor.

[@BigRockMoto]

Awesome setup

[@JackHumphrey]

I'm confused almost daily about what I'll wear. Depends on heat/cold, and how much I hate the restriction of the mesh jacket I have. Range of motion is 1000% better with my Alpine Stars armor shirt and a jersey. I want that all the time, but it's hard sometimes. Also changing out armor all the time is a pain and puts more stress on the decision, especially when you just want to get out the door.

[@JackHumphrey]

Seems like I need a lighter abrasion outer, big enough for the layers and armor underneath, and stop defaulting to the big jacket which, altogether makes me feel like when my mom dressed me for cold weather when I was five and my arms stuck straight out the whole time.

[@markchalloner5883]

Good video. Finding the right setup can be hard for a multi-day ride when you can go from 100f to 40f on the same day! I prefer integrated armor for long(multi day) rides, and separate armor for day rides. Either way, layers are key.

[@maraudermitchelli]

Excellent and thorough as expected thank you for making this video. Ian is the Go To for ADV riding period 😊

[@sfade6217]

I have been screamimg this concept for a while now after using adv gear and hating it. Glad you did a vid on it! Yes there are some give and takes though

[@Cbsmd-zq4zx]

REV'IT! Nucleus Protector Jacket (CE2 for impact on main padding, and AA Rated in total for impact/abrasion) layer up as needed or wear it on its own for full mesh air. The rating systems are really convoluted and confusing. A lot of companies won’t even do a rating since it’s so complex and only for Europe. I wear protective underwear shorts underneath my dirt A rated pants (also ce2 rated knee pads). You have to kind of research and add it all up to get to where you are pretty sure your setup covers all the basis at a minimum AA total rating. The only downside to this is no connector from jacket to pants… that’s the only weak spot. Bowtex has aaa rated jacket/shirt/armor which connects to their aaa pants via belt loops.

[@greenveg42]

The rating system is in my opinion only like 15% more complicated than it needs to be. The situation (needing to wear protection) IS complicated in it’s nature. It’s just a hard problem.

[@Just_2_Wheelz]

Hi! Does the Nucleus have a belt loop?

[@hughmac7423]

I rely on my street gear with armour built in, separate back protector, knee and elbow protectors. I've had the built in elbow armour move when falling on the dirt, ending up with small tendon tear. I have multiple jackets for different weather conditions. I'm a big guy, very broad across the shoulders and I have a lot of trouble finding body armour that fits, and jackets that are large enough.

[@craigwall8703]

I tried one set of gear to suit all occasions and found it just doesn't work for me, spent the money and got both on and off road gear now got the best of both worlds much better.

[@BigRockMoto]

Yep

[@OAK_MTN]

I'd avoid wearing a mid layer under your amor as it will get compressed and see it's insulation factor reduced by the fitting shirt. That's an issue if you use a puffy down jacket of course. I consider the protection as a base layer in itself when it comes to wearing separate armor. Less stuff under it means it always fit where it should as well.

[@fredflintstone1754]

Nothing is perfect, but I have found my Aerostich Roadcrafter one piece suit has worked quite well under every situation I have found myself in for almost 25 years. Made in USA and they will repair damage [for a fee]. Waterproof and durable. On road and off road. Good stuff.

[@GregLanz]

Living in Canada the thought of wearing a mesh suit is like a completely foreign language... In Calgary at least there are 3 days a year when I do not need insulated gear. I really need to exist somewhere where humans are intended to more than survive

[@Cbsmd-zq4zx]

Just move to USA I did… only one life and couldn’t do dark/wet/freezing 10 mo a year… that’s not living. Also too woke

[@edwardkheyfets3390]

Need a few jackets and layering, from Calgary too.

[@edwardkheyfets3390]

@@Cbsmd-zq4zx Only if Biden disappears, as the migrants will take your house eventually. Agree with the woke crap. Good to have e few choses of jackets, pending on weather/comfort.

[@IRLtrolls]

Come to Houston Texas and you’ll understand why most people here ride in just a T shirt. I have full mesh gear that I wear sometimes but usually in the dog days of summer I’m in just a motocross jersey. It’s too hot and humid for me to convey via words.

[@robertkoper3039]

I still wear full mesh gear in Dec and Jan in S.Spain when off roading in S.Spain😊down side is no real rain since Dec 2022😮

[@thanhto3023]

Exactly the topic we need. Looked at the Mosko gears and tempted to get them (yes I’m a bit spoiled I know) but can’t justify spending that much since I only do like 20% offroading. Also another thing is you can’t really put a full armor jacket in moto bags, they’re very baggy. So can’t have them all I guess

[@ryanmalone2681]

I have multiple of both, I usually ride motorway to the mountains and then dirt from there, but because my road skills are better than my off-road skills, and because it’s often hot here in Tennessee, I almost always end up with separate armor and Mosko gear. It’s easier to control varied temps when working hard (I ride a GSA) with separate armor and gear.

[@BigRockMoto]

Right on!

[@PovilasPanavas]

This is some great insights. I never knew how off-road riding works when it comes to gear.

[@ChooseBrian]

Great video Ian. Separate armor for the win for me.

[@AceCarleton]

Pando Moto and the Adventure Spec super shirt add abrasion resistance in a layerable product. But still not super breathable. Light weight wind breakers and puffy jackets over the Compression armour is a great way to add warmth without taking it off

[@TheIdlesurfer]

I've got to disagree with you re breathability of the Adv Spec Supershirt. I'm not sold on Adv Spec. I think it is over priced, and my brand of choice is Alpinestar. But the Supershirt does flow a lot of air at any riding speed. The mesh works well with a pertex layers if the weather gets cold. The black colour does draw heat so I wear a white overshirt, a fine Finnish ice hockey shirt. Hyvää Suomi. In temperate weather, Klim Dakar. In wet weather, an overshell. In cold, wet weather, puffy and overshell. This set up has worked from wet Wales, to thundery Arctic Finland, to scorching Morocco.

[@spencer2458]

A review of different separate armour brands would be awesome….revit vs forcefield vs adventure spec for example

[@advredbikes]

Thank you Ian for the Honest opinion on the styles of jackets and armour, great to know.

[@CampfireADV]

I have the MSR explorer suit and in the summer I do separate armor so I can wear a jersey underneath for off road. In the winter I’ll wear the armor in the suit since it’s not warm enough to need a jersey only so it’s the best of both worlds. I have a Mosko kit I wear on my dirt bike and would love to get the basilisk once they add armor pockets for the occasions I want armor in it like mostly street or winter

[@richardfrantz9539]

I’ve been riding with an Aerostitch Darien Lite suit for the past four years. It works well for road riding with it’s Velcro in pads. It is comfortable in most temperatures with proper base layers but as you noted they may not always stay in place in a crash. They’re not the most stylish but do work well. Tightening the Velcro adjustments help with pad stabilization but restricts airflow especially in the sleeves. The very large side and back vents are outstandingly efficient. Have you ever evaluated an Aerostitch suit? I’d be interested on your take as I can’t test the range you do. I also have a Motoport Difi jacket from the 1990sthat is wonderfully protective but requires the gortex liner and even then won’t stand a long downpour. Just a few of my thoughts. By the way, I ride a BMW F750GS, Kawasaki KLX 300(2021) ,Harley trike and a Honda PCX150 and am 82 years old.

[@TheNazradin]

integrated armor suits generally have way better pocket options. There are some layered armor jackets that do have AAA rating like the Knox honister, although I wish they would have an over jacket with TPU or super fabric for proper slide durability.

[@toltod]

Great job. Always my dilemma choosing to go separate armor or integrated jacket/pants.

[@MichaelGoins]

really like the channel and your views on this subject - I follow same approach, the gear I choose to wear depends on the planned ride and elements to be encountered. I believe you should include @bohnbodyarmor in the discussion as well. I discovered them a few months back when looking to replace the armor in the leather jacket I wear during daily (cool/cold weather) commute and living in NC, have quickly become a big fan. I'm now wearing their gear on pretty much every ride, as a separate and sometimes only top whether on- or off-road. I even wear their cold weather fleece, or mesh, under that same leather jacket.

[@Michael_Shay]

I'd be curious to hear your thoughts on the revit nucleus. Personally wish I knew about it before I purchased my proteus.

[@Cbsmd-zq4zx]

So good

[@michaellipman6065]

I ride on street 90% Gravel 10%. I bought a mesh jacket with integrated armour. When it is cool/cold i add layers below and above. Armored Kevlar riding jeans, and tall TCX drifter boots with shin protection. If I were to go off road, I would consider getting better armour, and certainly upgrading boots to REAL adv boots😜. The route I chose gives me the flexibility I need. Note: A tip I incorporated-- integrated knee pads fit people differently as their legs are different from person to person, and their leg position will vary from bike to bike. For that reason, I secure them in position with velcro straps, to make sure they are over my knees at all times. Velcro straps positioned Above and/or below the knee

[@jaredandersen82]

Content has been 🔥🔥🔥 lately, loving it!!

[@project.jericho]

The problem with armor is that the protection included in mass consumer gear is only rated to protect against impact half the force value it takes to break a bone, mitigating it's value proposition entirely.

[@reinmansmith]

After 50yrs of motorcycling going from wearing an open faced helmet with a denim jacket to a full leather ‘suit of armour’, I think I now have reached the best most comfortable bike wear for year round use. Yes it does require layering and I don’t do off road riding. I have a Klim Marrakesh jacket which is 1000 denier construction with armour but flows air through every panel. Basically the whole jacket flows air so in higher 20+ degs C it is the coolest most comfortable jacket I’ve ever worn whilst remaining well protected. If it rains I pull on my Scott waterproof over the top. In cooler weather I have the Klim Zephyr windproof layer underneath and once the temps drop below 15c then my Keis heated jacket will keep me comfortable down to sub zero temps with a merino base layer underneath. My lower half is taken care of with a pair of Stadler 4All pro motorcycle pants which are fully vented, all day comfortable, high abrasion resistance with super fabric plus armour. Again if temps drop it’s easy to zip in the insulated liners for extra warmth. 👍

[@BigRockMoto]

Love this

[@ApocalypseNouille]

So, I went layered myself, but a bit more versatile than what Ian is showcasing with the Mosko moto stuff. I use a Knox Urban Pro jacket as my body armor. This thing is AA rated and can take a spill at highway speed. That means that I can wear a Tshirt + this jacket in the summer for all my riding - on and off road, as it is a fully meshed jacket with a comprehensive set of armor. When I need to layer up, I can then add a puffy jacket on top (or, really, anything I want, since I already have both my abrasion and impact protection in the Knox armor) and an outer shell for wind and rain protection. I personally use a Patagonia Nano puff jacket and a Rev'It Component 2 H2O. I have an extra rain layer if I really spend the day in heavy rain. A bit more fiddly than an integrated jacket in the winter, but so much more versatile and cooler in the summer. All these layers do get expensive, though.

[@КонстантинВоронцов-х6с]

Did you really find yourself in a situation when you needed rain gear over Component? I haven't tested mine in more than a 30 min drizzle and wondering whether I need an additional rainwear for multiday trips. Thanks!

[@ApocalypseNouille]

@@КонстантинВоронцов-х6с Yes. When you spend hours on end in heavy rain, no matter how good your gear is (and the Component Jacket is good and waterproof), it will eventually soak in. That extra thin rain layer is a savior in these situations. Also adds another wind break layer when it's both cold and wet. I use the Rev'It rain smock, it rolls into nothing and is very comfortable and waterproof.

[@movaughn20]

Great video, explanation! For those shopping for gear, Walmart of all people, has Alpinestars Bionic Action MX Offroad Protection Jacket Camel/Black MD for $55.79

[@markjacobs3956]

Conclusion. Buy both. Keep the marketing gears churning. I, too, have been caught in this marketing vortex. Here's my setup. Undies-Bohn Mesh armor top and bottom. Mid ski layers if needed. Generic puffer jacket if needed. Jersey. Over top rain gear if really cold. Revolution Race bottoms add over top rain gear if cold. Gearne Fasback Boots. Done.

[@NebulaLuna]

I'd love to see a moto adventure series from you, some kind of adv trip where you bring us along

[@BigRockMoto]

I've done several of those, check my playlists

[@jaimemetcher388]

I like/need to pack two jackets, and road jackets with good integrated armor coverage are really hard to pack. I don't think I even have a bag that my road jacket will fit in, so I resort to strapping it onto the top of my luggage. But unless I'm packing heavy, that jacket is as big as the rest of my luggage. Why do I need two jackets? I run hot and cold. Going slow in the woods, maybe picking the bike up a few times, I'm hot in almost any weather even lightly dress. Going fast on the highway, maybe it's raining, the windchill is massive, and I'm cold even on a warm day unless I really rug up. I haven't found any one jacket that will cope with all of that, on top of maybe a 30 deg (C) ambient temperature difference over a couple of days. So - if slow trails are on the menu at all, it's MX boots, knee braces, separate armour, a jersey for the trails and a road jacket with the armour removed for the highway sections. I have warm and cool base layers, and a mid layer that goes over the armour. All the bulk is in stuff I'm wearing all the time (yes, I wear the boots and braces on the highway), and everything else packs down small. If it's a pure highway trip, I have to make a call based on the anticipated weather. Mostly I take a road suit, play with the vents, and suffer on hot days in the urban sections. If it's really too hot, as in heat-stroke territory, then I have to blow out my luggage size and take the second jacket. Why not use the separate armour for highway trips? Coz I have a great road suit that's comfortable and warm, and is even more abrasion resistant than the one I use with the separate armour.

[@MarkoMarcello]

Another great video. I was wondering what to do with my BMW Rallye and rallye 3 pants and a few other very nicely made, but all with knee protectors (although quality made), dangling under knee where they were supposed to staz in crash conditions and not while sitting on the bike, when they usually stay in place. So I removed protectors and started using other knee protectors under the pants. Unlike Dainese where they stay in place no matter what I m doing, walking, riding, goofing around.

[@stevek4449]

Seems the best of both is both. Separate armor could be rolled, folded or packed and switch with integrated jacket so basically carry one of each? So you ride to the trail in street armor and swap to dirt armor on the trails?

[@Yowzoe]

“ WICKED STOCK Motorcycle Jacket for Men-Adventure Motorcycle Jacket-CE LEVEL2 Armor-Motorcycle Jacket Men-4 Season Waterproof 4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars “ $97 Then switch out with D3O ghost armor. Also their pants ($80). How is this not a good first setup for those of us without a whole lot of resources? I’m open to all suggestions. They fit tight, they’re well-made, and they don’t have branding splashed all over.

[@yinyangthang]

Of course a company like KNOX offers armored shirts that are meant to be worn next-to-skin (as a base layer), so this decreases some of the faff factor (also, is the coolest configuration of "separate armor" in hot weather).

[@RomulusReemus]

Why aren't amour pads also considered "abrasion resistance"? I can't see how a workhorse jersey over a padded compression upper body garment isn't as protective as a mesh jacket coming off the bike at say 60mph on the freeway.

[@painsrides3616]

I have a Leatt 5.5 body armor and a Moose Racing armored mesh shirt, in addition to armored shorts and Leatt knee guards. I wear this armor over a base seasonal base layer. Depending on the season\weather and ride type I have different pants and jackets to wear over the armor. I am on the hunt for a waterproof \vented jacket shell. I find the integrated armor suits are far too hot to wear in all but the coldest conditions, for me I need layers I can remove or put on as conditions change.

[@mikedunkel1390]

Most of the year, SE (Florida) riders need to fear dehydration more than rocks. Modest protection that provides ultimate cooling is paramount. Dehydration is easily achievable without a single tumble and can have far more serious consequences. Ask any Navy Seal...

[@hillb13]

Much of the time, I’ll wear external armor. Get to where I’m going and ditch the external armor and I look normal. Not an issue when camping but in town it’s nice.

[@zestytest]

i switched to separate armor a few years ago and wont go back . Currently using the revitt nucleus , the nucleus is aa rated and i layer up or down accordingly

[@Just_2_Wheelz]

Considering to buy the Nucleus jacket. How do you like it so far? Do you need to size up for layering on top of it or can you use the existing cold weather gear?

[@inqufox1750]

The gear that i ride in is a mix, my chest, back and arms all have hard armour, so motorcross style armour because i used to have a super moto and actually crashed in this style at 70 on the highway. i had mesh style gear on my legs at the time, full race boots that cover the shin a regular full face street helmet with street style gloves, the hard armour slide just fine, the mesh kinda grabbed on my knees and gave me a bit of road rash there not much i bleed a little like if i got carpet burn my hands head and feet were all fine and again my chest arms and back were untouched given i had hard armour, the unique part about my hard armour is it covers the stomach or a good portion of the stomach as well not a lot of motorcross/hard armours seem to do this. I have the unfortunate experience to have actually crashed in this style of gear so i trust it whole heartedly no matter where i am. Personally for me, i wear a shirt and then the armour over it, in the winter in some colder days i put a jacket over the armour but other then that its, shirt, armour pants gloves helm boots and im good to go, if it gets cold i do find it better to put the jacket over the armour instead of under the armour because its better to stop the cold from reaching the layer touching your skin. If the layer touching your skin gets cold you're cold, so keep the layer on your skin as warm as possible for as long as possible put jacket over the armour and that way you dont have to undress and redress 9 times a ride its just put jacket on take jacket off!

[@jonathangault8025]

I am using the Knox urbane pro mk 3 at the minute, I'm not sure if it is available in the USA, but I find it to be a good compromise between both setups.

[@brianmartindale2221]

I ride almost all off-road (dirt roads, two tracks, trails in CO), but do some distance travel. (maybe 5-10%) I started with an armored jacket and pants, but I did not feel entirely safe. Then, I tried on an Alpinestars A-10 and TP 199 elbow and knee guards and I will not ride without them. (Um, I am the king of survivable MTB pain, too) I feel safer. Now I travel with that setup and the jacket without integrated armor for abrasion resistance on the tar, but skip the big heavy for the daily dirt rides, you know. I do like having both setups, though. It's not that much moola for this form of self-insurance, considering most machines are north of 10K

[@petersajo7195]

one comment for layering approach: there are many AA or AAA rated armor, like adventurespec, knox. if u have these doesn't master what is your final layer. Imo this is the best approach for road riding as well

[@BigRockMoto]

Good point!

[@kaykay8686]

Abrasion-resistant armored vests? Was that mentioned or did I miss it? Perfect solution.

[@ronr6605]

No cotton, function base, long merino from skiing all year, seperate softprotection upper, riding chinos, jersey, if needed windbreaker or goretexoverpants/goretex windbreaker from hunting... daytona boots, merino balaclava, always a couple of gloves, nothing sucks more than wet gloves. Handy a mesh bag to strap on the bike and dry the stuff. So yes, layering is it. You are just more focused riding if you don't overheat like a steamer.

[@On2wheels94]

All my rev'it gear has removable rain liners so I can ride 95% with it out, and have it stowed away for just in case moments. Works out better than the integrated liners it sounds like.

[@lophophorawilliamsii9740]

Riding in the desert southwest, mesh gear for roads, t shirt when offroad.

[@gladiusthrax4941]

Thoroughly useful! I am a new rider, getting my first bike on Sunday (F650GS Dakar) and I have been wondering what gear to get. I think I will be doing 50/50 on/off-road and in warm to hot conditions. After watching this, I think I will go for separate armor with some abrasion resistance thinner jacket on top when going onto the pavement. I can easily strap such a jacket to the back of the bike when I hop into dirt. Now the question is what the abrasion resistance jacket should be. I would want something thinner with no armor, just asphalt rash protection. I would appreciate any tips on that.

[@InterimExec]

Great Explanation. Following a Crash in a dear at 65mph/100Kmh, in the earliest version of Klim Suit. I survived. Broken Clavicule,6 broken ribs. Helmet looked like it had been shaved by industrial Grinder, no concussion: Safe. Jacket Looked like I had been attacked By a grizzly Bear. NO abrasion Except a tiny from wearing the jacket unzipped from bottom. No Other Abrasion. My Learing: 2 types of protection Abrasion and Impact. Abrasion matters because it is Painful.....Impact, Broken bones,ribs...that also hurt and can kill you if your organ are pierced.....Conclusion. Returning to riding at 70 and wanting to be protected. Klim Suit for Abrasion.(Dress for the slide) and Airbag for the impact. ANjd yes it would be infinately more comfortable to ride in shorts and flip flop Bt also more painful in ICU. Thanks so much for the great Review. A fan Always. Keep it up