Why I Stopped Wearing Motorcycle Body Armour: A Closer Look at FortNine’s Bold Claim

Ryan Kluftinger of FortNine recently made a wild statement in one of his videos, claiming he no longer wears motorcycle body armour because, in his opinion, it doesn’t work. This declaration left many riders questioning the safety of their gear, but is Ryan’s view backed by solid evidence? Peter ‘The Bear’ Thoeming shares his thoughts on the controversial video and sets the record straight with the help of Dr. Liz deRome, an expert in motorcycle safety research.

The Controversy: Misinterpreting Key Research

Ryan Kluftinger’s video argues that body armour in motorcycle gear is essentially useless. He references a study by Dr. Liz deRome but fails to accurately represent its findings. Dr. deRome, a seasoned researcher and a well-known figure in the field of motorcycle safety, was dismayed by the selective quoting of her work. Her GEAR study, which was used as evidence in the video, actually highlights the benefits of body armour, making it clear that Ryan’s interpretation is misguided.

What the Research Really Says

Dr. deRome’s research focuses on the effectiveness of motorcycle protective clothing in real-world crashes, emphasizing that body armour can reduce the likelihood of injury. “The key issue,” says Dr. deRome, “is that Ryan misread the study.” The research doesn’t suggest that armour prevents fractures, but it does reduce the overall severity of injuries, especially open wounds.

The GEAR study showed that riders wearing protective gear with armour were significantly less likely to suffer any injuries at all. And for those who did get injured, the likelihood of hospitalization was much lower. While fractures may still occur, body armour can reduce the complexity of these breaks, leading to quicker recovery times and fewer complications.

Thermal Comfort vs. Protection

Another important aspect of Dr. deRome’s research is the balance between thermal comfort and injury protection, particularly in hot climates. Riders in Australia’s scorching summers are often tempted to forego their protective gear, but this comes at the cost of safety. Dr. deRome’s studies found that wearing full protective gear in extreme heat significantly increases skin and core temperatures, which can impair reaction times and affect overall riding performance. However, it’s crucial to stay protected and cool, rather than sacrificing one for the other.

Conclusion: Keep Your Armour On

Despite what Ryan Kluftinger might claim, the data clearly supports the use of body armour in motorcycle gear. It’s not just about preventing fractures—it’s about reducing the severity of all types of injuries, particularly open wounds. Riders should stay safe by wearing their protective gear and making sure to stay cool in hot weather.

While Ryan’s video might make for entertaining viewing, it’s important to rely on data-driven conclusions. Don’t throw away your body armour—it might just save your life.

More information https://bikereview.com.au/bear-tracks-dont-believe-everything-you-see-on-youtube/