A JACKET THAT DOESN’T LOOK LIKE NORM’S

TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE Yamaha MT Techno jacket Price – $399.01

To go with our fl ash new Yamaha MT-07 long term bike, the lovely people at Yamaha Genuine Parts & Accessories decided they want me to look the part as well. They sent over their MT Techno jacket, made by Spidi.

As the name suggests, the MT Techno is a very technical looking jacket.

Pockets are designed differently, there are multiple Velcro adjustment straps and even a “tool” pouch on the back.

The jacket itself is made from 100% Polyester mesh, yet offers a high level of protection via the well-fitting shoulder and elbow armour and back protector, and it even has a chest protector.

The chest protector plate is press buttoned in before you zip up the front of the jacket.

As it is made from mesh, this is obviously a summer jacket. The areas that actually let the most amount of air flow through are along the inside of the arms, the underarms, sides and some areas of the front. The rest of the arms, back and frontal area do not let large amounts of air fl ow through, so I’ve found you can wear this jacket as a mid-season jacket also.

Sizing for the jacket will require you to try one on. I found the arms were slim, compared to other jackets the same size, but I really like the open neck collar.

There is nothing worse than restricting airflow around the neck in hotter weather.

To let people know what you’re riding there are some subtle Yamaha and MT logos on the jacket, but they are quite subtle so you could wear this jacket on any brand motorcycle, which is what I do.

Available in sizes S-3XL, I took the 3XL when I’m normally a 2XL. See your local Yamaha dealer to grab one and enjoy a jacket that looks different from the norm. SW

YOU’LL BACKFLIP JUST TO GET A PAIR

Held Backfl ip gloves. Price – $80

Hotter riding weather is here and keeping your hands cool is essential.

After wearing out my Dririder Rapid summer gloves I was on the search for a replacement. I looked no further than the top quality Held brand. Their range of apparel is extensive and there is something for every type of rider and riding preference.

For the hotter riding days I chose the Backflip glove. Not only is the Backflip a relatively inexpensive glove to buy, it is also cool to ride with – just what I was after.

The Backflip features a synthetic leather palm with reinforcements in the vulnerable areas. The top side of the glove is made from Spandex and mesh fabric and lined with Coolmax and Dupont material. You also get air vents on the fingers, an essential visor wipe, Velcro closure, hard plastic knuckle protection that is vented as well, silicone printed palms for extra grip. The ball of the thumb is underlaid with shock absorbing gel for comfort. The Backflip is also colourfast and sweat-proof, another essential feature for summer riding.

Having now ridden with the Backflip glove for just on a month, on hot days, rainy days and a couple of cooler days, I am highly impressed with how the glove has handled all of these conditions. It is cool on hotter days, yet bearable on cooler days and in the rain the silicone prints on the palm and fingers give great levels of grip. Comfort is also good for a summer glove.

Available in a wide variety of colours and in sizes 6-12, the sizing runs true to your normal size. I’m a 2XL and size 11 (equal to 2XL) is perfect.

Contact Held on 02 9719 8890 or visit the website www.heldaustralia.com.au SW

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