Helite Turtle 2 Airvest Review

[@dennisaston3551]

Just a note, Helite recommends you put the strap at a location where the tank meets the bike, so the opposite end of the seat to where you anchored the strap. You want the strap to be up on the side of the vest where the CO2 cartridge is.

[@kristopherjoaquin2037]

instablaster...

[@jimmydickson8854]

Great bit of protective gear cheaper than hospital bills well worth it if you consider all the pros and cons

[@kevinkeller1307]

I'd probably keep my license/registration/insurance in the front pocket. They also have a black version now (though I still picked the yellow). As for cost - a good helmet costs the same. After your head, your neck and torso are probably the next things to protect and worth it.

[@logicfirst7959]

5 months ago, my bike accident, not a serious one, cost me 3800 bucks, 4 hours in emergency + all other imaging and other tests. After that I am willing to pay 1200 bucks for this jacket and luckily its on sale for 700 bucks. So decide who do you want to pay, 4X the amount to hospital/doctors or 700 bucks that can save you from major injuries, I would pick the later any day.

[@vedder10]

Absolutely great point. I just purchased one from Revzilla and I can't wait till it get's here.

[@reshapeddie]

Detailed, complete and well structured review, thank you!

[@RiderUK20]

You're more than welcome! Glad you liked it 👍

[@shockadellick]

@@RiderUK20 Only one issue, where are the stats that lives have been saved due to airbag vest/jackets?

[@RiderUK20]

It's difficult to put an exact number on lives saved, although Helite's website claims at least 10 so far, according to feedback from doctors who have treated crash patients. The Airvest is most effective at speeds under 31kmph, reducing neck extension and flexion by no less than 20%. Other brands claim the back protection is equivalent to stacking 18 back protectors together.

[@HJC1950]

Wearing black from head to toe on a bike is a very bad idea. At the very least, switch to a white helmet. Don't make yourself harder to see to other motorists. Try to get the odds working for you rather than against.

[@d.d.h6749]

there are people out there who would rather look cool by wearing black even if it increases their chances of spinal cord injury and having to wear a diaper the rest of their lives.

[@duncanallen6431]

That little pocket is perfect for my wk pass that I swipe to lift the barrier at sites entrance

[@tigerick7291]

I ordered one yesterday in black. Great review.👍

[@RiderUK20]

Thank you, I'm glad you liked it. Enjoy the new gear, and safe riding! 👍

[@608SpeedShop]

Good review, simple and to the point. Maybe go over sizing next time? I love how simple this vest is, can’t go wrong with the basic mechanical airbag function. Thanks!

[@RiderUK20]

Thanks! I like that it's reusable too, and so easy to reset.

[@petetyler6910]

The little pocket on the front is great for an ICE a card and also putting peage or carpark tickets in My Helite is well used, the hi is really shows the dirt/grime. Keep it clean with some Swarfega and a rinse Most important is to wear it!!

[@joeyp4196]

Im a new rider and I just got mine in High viz. There were a few KZbin crashes I watched that just convinced me to get it. Some that really stood out and if they were wearing this, maybe they would still be alive. Pricey, yes. You loose a few "looking cool on a bike" points. But really who cares. I'd rather be alive.

[@TimmyMarvelousMechanical]

1 month later, what is your experience? I just ordered a high viz one too. Where do you prefer to anchor the cord? I was wondering what you do with the cord if it's diconnected? Do you just let it dangle?

[@joeyp4196]

@@TimmyMarvelousMechanical Yes, it just dangles, there is really no way around it. But u can adjust the length and shorten it as I did. Its not that noticeable. I removed the seat and attached it to the frame as the company recommends. It only weighs 3 pounds. U really forget ur wearing it. U made a wise choice.

[@Confettish1]

Don't mind any of this nuisance feedback. Great detailed video. Keep it up!

[@SandraOrtmann1976]

Still, IMO, the best solution for airbag vests. I got one of these after a lot of research. I do not love that you have to wear it outside your jacket, but I do not like that for other brands you have to charge the thing. Or even worse, you need a subscription for it to work. What if you loose your internet connection? Then it won't work if required? So you cannot visit certain areas e.g. in the Alpes?

[@SandraOrtmann1976]

Yeah, I know, I am old, and I prefer things to be simple, wherever possible...but thank you for the clarification. Though I still think the battery is a disadvantage. But that is just my opinion, you do you.

[@nikoscosmos]

Good stuff, the e system is even better!

[@RiderUK20]

Definitely some cool tech, 3 clicks and you're set.

[@c0dy1287]

Worth noting these are also available in black so that kind of cancels out the statement on the hi viz.

[@tormodi5925]

I'm considering this vest seriously. Have not been too keen on airbag vests mut mostly due to the fact that I have not done any research, just presumed that it's a bulky incomfortable peace of gear. Some KZbin-reviews later I think this could be really worth having. I'd go for the black. Hi-viz looks a bit dull, could make you leave it home in some occations and will provide false security if you "assume" you are seen due to wearing this yellow color.

[@rebellucy6200]

False security is better than NO security.

[@tim_pearson]

I keep the garage door opener in the little pocket - very useful. But I do wish there was another pocket.

[@fredzuccarelli]

Nice review. Would you mind sharing your ht/wt and what size vest did you buy?

[@RiderUK20]

Thanks! I'm 175cm and 75kg on my best days! I wore a Medium for the review and it fit snugly without restricting any movements.

[@alexandercobos7795]

Thanks for the review!

[@billfreeman398]

Nice video, thanks

[@AashieshNanawarey]

Good one! Just one thing, you could make the intro part of just sitting in a room/studio more interactive.. It seemed a bit formal.. The middle part of video was better than the intro as it was interactive. Keep it up! - Love from India.

[@RiderUK20]

Thanks for the feedback. I'm always looking to improve my videos, so I'll bear this in mind in the future.

[@twowheelin7361]

Nice review✌🏻It also comes in a black color

[@philipjames250]

Useful review, thanks

[@RiderUK20]

My pleasure, I'll keep them coming!

[@TDV1]

Been wanting to buy one but I really hate the look of the hivis. But I'm on the fence because I know of the benefits of having hivis.

[@RiderUK20]

I know what you mean. They do make a black version but the hi-vis definitely adds to your road presence. I think if you're wearing one anyway, you might as well go total safety and opt for the yellow version.

[@TDV1]

@@RiderUK20 I have a hivis strap, which I put on, it covers around 1/3 of the upper body. The Helite covers the whole lot. The black looks sleek but it's stupid to essentially risk your life over it.

[@RiderUK20]

Exactly. At the end of the day, safety has to come first 👍

[@elobiretv]

They do sell a black version now too.

[@jarkohagemans2157]

Pocket: earplugs!! 👍🏻

[@garycheavin8768]

garage remote in the top pocket

[@Lovisaish]

Nice review. I would keep “personal info” in the pocket, like a medical card with info needed in case of a crash, I would also make it visible from the outside somehow. Haven’t thought this trough quite yet… 😅

[@Tennouseijin]

You could sew on a patch with "emergency info inside" onto the pocket. I've just found some on etsy.

[@Lovisaish]

@@Tennouseijin wouldn’t that compromise the strength of the fabric? Maybe not… but yeah something like that was what I had in mind..

[@Tennouseijin]

@@Lovisaish I don't think it would compromise the fabric. The only worry I would have is it might slightly impact the ability to slide, as the patch might have higher friction than the vest. However, I don't think this is a safety concern, and seems like the best way to ensure the medical card is found quickly. Another option would be a laminated sticker, but I'm not sure it would be as likely to survive a slide. Or you could just try permanent markers? Dunno how 'permanent' they would be on this material.

[@nikolacmiljanic2427]

what is diference between Helite Turtle version 1 and 2?

[@brianhanson8034]

I'd use the pocket for license

[@RiderUK20]

Great shout! Hadn't thought of that. Although I keep mine in my wallet in a larger pocket but I suppose this would be more convenient.

[@MsDenver2]

Not just a commuter , for touring aswell

[@obvio______3875]

i mean that pocket could be for your spare canister. its better having one than not having one?

[@RiderUK20]

Carrying a spare canister is a good idea, although it might be a tight squeeze fitting it into that pocket. Ultimately, I think it's worth having this vest. It's a smart investment, especially as it's reusable, and regardless of style, it could save your life.

[@obvio______3875]

@@RiderUK20 oh yeah I'm definitely going to get one. This video sealed the deal lol. Although I'm going to get the full motorcycle jacket as it saves me money (I don't need to buy a jacket and the vest) or if not the jacket I would get the grey vest. Have you seen their electric airbags?

[@RiderUK20]

I'm aware of them and have done a fair bit of research on them too. I like that you don't have to be attached to the bike, that part about the Turtle 2 is a small con. Are you looking at the Roadster leather air jacket?

[@obvio______3875]

@@RiderUK20 although the tether can be annoying, there is the benefit of more reliability and it will always work when someone falls off. i am looking at the touring one. www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/motorcycle_parts/content_prod/227540

[@RiderUK20]

That's a super nice air jacket, and a good price there too! You'll also get elbow and shoulder armour, plus the material is actually 1000 Cordura on those areas, as opposed to 600. Do you prefer it in grey or black?

[@nicolasvigh]

I'v noticed that you were wearing a backpack over the vest. Would they work together without shoulder injury in case of airbag deployment?

[@RiderUK20]

A backpack can be worn safely over the vest, as long as there's enough slack in the straps to allow the airvest to fully inflate. Hope that helps 👍

[@KillSwitch80]

Pocket is for candies

[@HB-ss4en]

Which size is best suited for someone that wears M size cloths?

[@RiderUK20]

I'd buy the M size if you are an M usually. The adjustable straps make it fairly versatile in terms of sizing. Going too large will compromise safety, too small will be uncomfortable. Let us know how you get on with whichever size you end up buying 👍 You can also use the following link to see their sizing guide helitemoto.com/sizing/

[@paulsmyth497]

Nice one mate. Great review. Love your honesty. Like you, I am torn between the benefits of high viz, but preferring not to look like a high speed banana 😜. I’ve already got a jacket with a level 2 (plus) back protector, and would love this technology INSIDE my cool gear...... I need all the “cool” I can get at 59🤣🤣🤣🤣. The Alpinestars vest is also not an option, as it does go inside, but the back protector is the firing mechanism, and yet is only level 1. Ho hum. The search goes on. Cheers mate 👍

[@RiderUK20]

It really is an awesome piece of kit, I'm glad you enjoyed the review. I'm aiming to review another Helite alternative which people would be into by the sounds of it. Stay tuned!

[@paulsmyth497]

@@RiderUK20 I’m guessing that’s the “e” version. If so, I’m on that page mate for sure 👍

[@rockylion4382]

Hi. I’m thinking of buying this. Great review. How do you size it? Do you go one size up to go over the riding jacket?

[@RiderUK20]

Hello, and thanks. There's a useful size chart on their website (linked in the video description), and they recommend that you take into account your riding gear when ordering the vest. I generally wear a medium, and a size M Airvest actually fit over my jacket nice and snugly.

[@rockylion4382]

@@RiderUK20 thanks 😊

[@alkaholic4848]

Earplugs in the pocket?

[@RiderUK20]

Very good idea 👍 I'm starting see the pocket as being useful now.

[@jlfc9024]

You can buy it in black, also do you have any idea what they fit like over one piece leathers with the hump on the back ?

[@RiderUK20]

I haven't tried wearing one over one piece leathers, so I couldn't say. Sorry.

[@ric84]

For leathers they have a different model called the "gp air". You could probqbly use this one aswell but i doubt it would be very comfortable.

[@ninja1970fin]

Anyone using this with a supersport like r6 or zx6r ? Experiences ? Better than a neck brace (leatt stx rr) ?

[@runehabberstad8756]

Very good. Is it size M you wear? Whats your hight and weight?

[@RiderUK20]

That was a size M in the video, which was the right fit for me. I'm 175cm tall and weigh 80kg, wet!

[@runehabberstad8756]

@@RiderUK20 Ok,thank you. It is same for me too.

[@runehabberstad8756]

I think i will go for the electric one.

[@chasethedog23]

Can you wear it under your jacket?

[@RiderUK20]

There's nothing stopping you from wearing it under your jacket, but the more resistance against the air vest, the less likely it is to inflate properly. I wore a backpack over the one I tested, and it wasn't restrictive or uncomfortable.

[@andysledge]

these things should be mandatory

[@go72ko]

Black over Yellow? I like the hi-viz safety increase, but black is more classy. Comment on this people, I need advice.

[@RiderUK20]

Depends on how highly you value that extra bit of visibility and road presence. Black is more subtle and stylish in my opinion. I'm hoping to review the Roadster Leather Air Jacket in the near future, so watch this space if you're looking for an awesome alternative.

[@go72ko]

@@RiderUK20 Thank you for the tips my friend. Your video is detailed, interesting to watch, very informative and practical. I am going for black too, if I want hi-viz I can always put one on from a construction store ;) I like to see your review o the Roadster Air Jacket. Great videos, I am your new subscriber from Canada, take care P.S. I think that small pocket on the vest is suitable to carry a copy of the insurance and DL, so even if you forget it at home, you always have copies with your gear. And a small chocolate bar for "the kid" ))

[@momentsoftriumph1050]

This is a connundrum i have wrestled with for a while. I think it depends upon your own personal level of risk aversion. But also, maybe (and entirely unscientifically from me) on where you ride. I mainly commute for example. In addition I am mortgaged, married and have kids. I am 46. I am over weight. That all said it genuinely (and sincerely non judgementally) interest me about the payoff of "the look" Vs safety. Riding is very much about 'The look'. The style. Etc etc. It's important. It is fun. It is very much a significant part of the joy of the hobby. That said,.I soon found my 100kg, short legs, and riding style don't suit whatever "look" I was trying to achieve. Plus, to be allowed to ride, the compromise is to be as safe as possible. So I always rode with a hi Vis vest anyway. Therefore getting a hi Vis airbag vest was a no brainer. I have started to think though that 'if you're trying to be safe'; why wouldn't you have a high vis? Why would you not want to be seen? I am genuinely curious. I have always said that I'd rather someone point at me as I get off my bike and turn to their mate and say "look at that hi Vis Berk, all dayglow and uncool" vs the same guys at the crossroads looking over my limp body saying "sorry....I just didn't see him...but hey, he looks really cool"? So...with that in mind I made my personal mental switch to All The Gear All The Time - come what may. It's the compromise I'm willing to make. As an aside and specifically about the Helite, I am surprised that no reviews talk about how well the Helite actually covers you in an off. The coverage is SO much better (rib cage like all of them but also hips, lower back, coccyx, kidneys) that again, as a style of vest it simply affords the best coverage to my mind. So... in summary, for me,.once I have wrestled with being 'as safe as possible' then the Helite AND hivis became the only option. Ride safe! ATGATT.

[@go72ko]

@@momentsoftriumph1050 Thank you for your thoughts. We are in the same age group and yes I agree with you. I marked the back of my bike and the begs with reflective tape red and white, so hopefully it is more visible then before and it looks nice. On the bike and the top case on I am not visible actually for the vehicles behind me. Without the top case I would be. Yellow hi vis look professional and responsible too. RiderUK was commenting that it is not statisticaly confurmed that hi vis gives you evidently more visibility. What I found in my following of the professionals, that bright colors make difference, including, yellow red etc.. My bike is red so it is already poking drivers attention. I found that not only color but even more much more attention attraction is moving objects. Like the drivers are not use to seeing riders and their periferal vision ios blinded by the brain putting a blank picture instead of the real on the road. So in many cases the drivers sincerely report that they did not see the rider aproaching at the intersection. Even hi viz wont help there. However if the rider was waving his hands, or if he had lights hypothetically on different locations of the bike changing their fleshing something like emergency vehicles, then motorcyclists would be much more visible in reality. I was thinking to install few lights on the front and the back and side small but bright and changing the pattern of fleshing fast during my rides. You know something like a Christmas tree lights haha, but yes in that case I believe I would be truly seen as per the videos I have analyzed in the peripheral vision of the drivers on the intersections and other situations. Maybe sound funny, but it is not illegal and is helpful in my opinion, a lot more than the Hi-Viz vest of just colors. You should think about this. I honestly think that these working yellow lights would make ton of difference small but bright. The society should help bikers be more visible on the public roads. So, personally so far I would go with the black Helite vest to still look "cool" haha, but however I would really go with some legal option of Hi-Viz pattern lights visible on the front sides and rear of my bike, constantly poking the attention of the surrounding traffic. Or at least turning on manually before entering the intersections and the other low visibility situations and conditions. Look at the emergency vehicle, you always see them approaching you from any direction when their emergency lights are on even without sound right?

[@momentsoftriumph1050]

@@go72ko hi, like you I am aware of the research that doesn't yet confirm hivis helps, but....I'm not aware of our being detrimental either. In my experience...?...it can't make the situation any worse! I like your idea of Christmas tree lights! Unfortunately, here in the UK, you aren't allowed any flashing lights except indicators... Ride safe!

[@adamwaind5057]

the little pocked would hold a pack of gum.

[@kshred3043]

What goes in the pocket ? Condoms of course. This is all about maximum protection.

[@TheGantus]

Biggest size is XL, thats sad.

[@rudolphcarr]

Not true. They make an LL and XLL both of which are larger than XL.

[@lykortos4827]

Don't wear a backpack with the jacket.