Alain Bouched Leather Motorcycle Jackets

Motorcycle Bike Jacket

Motorcycle Racing Jackets

As the popularity of Extreme Sports continues its rise, the concept of Motorcycle Racing has taken on new meaning. From road racing to Grand Prix, to motocross, supercross, and freestyle competition, one thing is for sure: if you race, you are going to fall off your bike on one or more occasions.

That being said, todays motorcycle racing jackets and apparel are designed taking this into consideration, and they compensate by giving you the best possible protection in the most likely places prone to injury. The basic principal is to design garments that will pad the most vulnerable body parts, and allow for a clean slide on asphalt or dirt without bunching up or tearing to shreds.

Racing jackets will and should come with some kind of body armor either fixed inside the jacket, or removable. Armor comes in different forms, from thick foams, to plastic covered compounds, to hard, shock absorbing rubbers.

When considering the purchase of a racing jacket and/or suit, make sure the armor is CE approved. Certifique Europe is a European standard of certification that grades armor on three levels, level 1 being the least protective, level 3 the most.

At the very least, a racing jacket should have protective armor at the shoulders and elbows, and pants should have extra protection at the knee and hip. In the case of a two piece racing suit, the bottom will often be zipped to the jacket, to allow the garment to act as one piece during a slide.

Back protectors are not often found in racing jackets, but there is in some jackets a place to insert one. Since most spinal injuries are caused by blows to the extremities as opposed to direct impact to the back, the back protector is better suited for protection from flying projectiles, and thus is often made from hard plastics.

Another major consideration for a racing jacket is the comfort factor.

Motorcycle jackets are usually made from a combination of materials, the basis of which is leather. Kevlar stitching can be used to insure the strength of the seams, and patches of Kevlar or other high stress synthetic materials are used on particularly vulnerable areas like the shoulders, elbows and knees. Stretch panels of various materials are often employed at strategic locations such as under the arms and at the knee to promote ease of movement in extreme conditions.

Because black leather has a natural tendency to be hot, racing jackets tend to be more colorful than your typical black leather jacket, using combinations of colors, obviously to attract attention to a particular racer, but also in part to reflect the heat of the suns rays. Some racing jackets employ perforated leather to allow the air to penetrate the jacket, and air vents are often used to provide circulation.

With modern synthetics gaining in popularity, many racers are choosing these tough and durable materials over leather because of their coolness, light weight, and waterproof characteristics. It is not uncommon to find legitimate racing gear that forego the use of leather altogether.

Whereas todays modern day motorcycle racing apparel employ all the technological know how to keep the racer safe and comfortable, racing jackets are also popular within the traditional biker community. A little bit of extra armor never hurts, and because many jackets use removable armor, you don't have to look so robotic at your local biker bar.

Additionally, you don't have to be stick with basic black, the colorful styles often found in the racing jacket genre add another layer of coolness for the biker to choose from!

About the Author

Michael Talbert is the creator, owner, and operator of Biker Leather Ltd., an online retailer of fine leather and textile
motorcycle jackets
,
leather chaps
, vests and biker accessories. Visit the website at
www.NakedLeatherBiker.com
.

GORE BIKE WEAR Cross Jacket $74.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Cross Jacket. The ideal cycling jacket for brisk morning rides.

GORE BIKE WEAR Countdown AS Jacket $169.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Countdown AS Jacket. The detachable sleeves turn this windproof and water-resistant cycling jacket in to a vest for temperature management at its best.

GORE BIKE WEAR Path Jacket $199.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Path Jacket. When you're morning commute turns a bit brisk, then its time to slip into this windproof and waterproof cycling jacket.

GORE BIKE WEAR Tool Jacket $199.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Tool Jacket. With a wonderfully soft exterior, water resistance and windproof protection, this fully equipped cycling jacket has every feature you need for hammering comfortably on cold winter rides.

GORE BIKE WEAR Contest SO Jacket $149.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Contest SO Jacket. This soft shell bike jacket is a favorite among road cyclists thanks to its comfort, flexibility and weather-protective features.

GORE BIKE WEAR Countdown SO Jacket $149.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Countdown SO Jacket. By adding Windstopper fabric and a thermal lining to their award-winning Countdown cycling jacket, GORE BIKE WEAR brings even more warmth to the winter riding season.

GORE BIKE WEAR Oxygen Jacket $229.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Oxygen Jacket. For road cyclists who are not afraid of rain. Lightweight and very packable, this tight-fitting cycling jacket with a Gore-Tex Paclite Shell forms an impenetrable barrier against wind and water while maintaining breathable comfort.

GORE BIKE WEAR Countdown AS Insulated Jacket $199.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Countdown AS Insulated Jacket. Windproof, water-resistant and most importantly, warm. Made with PrimaLoft Infinity insulation, this attractive, all-around bike jacket is designed for cyclists who want to look good both on and off the bike.

GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Fusion Jacket $199.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Fusion Jacket. With a wonderfully soft exterior, water resistance and windproof protection, this fully equipped, women's cycling jacket is your ideal companion for cold winter rides.

GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Countdown AS Jacket $199.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Countdown AS Jacket. The countdown to comfort and complete protection is a short one, thanks to this feature-packed women's cycling jacket. Windproof, water-resistant and breathable shell with zip-off sleeves easily adapts to changing weather conditions.

GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Power Jacket $149.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Power Jacket. We can't guarantee that this women's cycling jacket will MAKE you all-powerful, but it'll certainly make you FEEL all-powerful, thanks to its sleek looks and full weather protection.

GORE BIKE WEAR Balance III Jacket $99.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Balance III Jacket. When the forecast calls for wind and a chance of rain, that's usually when we're left hanging in the balance...do you go ride...or not? But GORE BIKE WEAR has developed a cycling jacket that'll tip the scales in favor of riding every time, thanks to its water resistance and windproof protection.

GORE BIKE WEAR Xenon SO Jacket $229.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Xenon SO Jacket. Wears like a Cycling Jersey. Acts like a jacket. Windstopper Soft Shell fabric is close-fitting and warm like a cool weather Cycling Jersey, but protects you with the windproof and water resistance of a winter cycling jacket. As a result, your body can devote more energy to activity than to staying warm. And more energy means you can stay outside longer doing what you love most -- riding.

GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Vento Jacket $149.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Vento Jacket. When the forecast calls for a mix of wet and windy weather, most of us opt to stay indoors. But thanks to the windproof and water-resistant properties of this women's cycling jacket, now you can you can head out with the confidence that you'll remain warm, comfortable and dry all ride long. Windstopper Active Shell repels water, blocks gusty winds and maximizes breathability. Mesh lining and full zipper circulate cool air to prevent overheating. Pre-shaped elbows, ergonomic collar, adjustable hem/sleeves and longer back promote on-the-bike comfort.

GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Oxygen GT AS Jacket $229.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Oxygen GT AS Jacket. If you've pedaled long enough to get caught in a few torrential downpours, then you understand the benefit of having weather protection close at hand. So when you see those ominous clouds up ahead, just reach for the Oxygen GT AS women's cycling jacket. Folds into its own back pocket for easy storage. Active Shell laminate protects you from wind and water while achieving new levels of breathability. Semi-form fit increases mobility and reflective details keep you visible.

CR Jacket $229.99 REV'IT CR Jacket For the light motorcycle or scooter rider, the retro-style CR (Classic Rider) jacket is an excellent choice. The matte finish of the jacket looks good on the bike and off, thanks to a light coating on the outside of the material. The textile CR's mesh lining is very comfortable, even over bare arms, making this a jacket you won't want to take off PROTECTION: OUTER SHELL: PWR shell poly-cotton, Lorica? INSULATION: Detachable thermal body warmer PROTECTION: Knox? CE protection, perforated EVA foam ERGONOMIC: FIT: City fit, regular ADJUSTABILITY: Adjustment tabs FEATURES: Jeans loop, double front zipper POCKETS: Slit pockets, inner pockets Currently Rev'It products can only be shipped to U.S. customers

JK Leather Jacket $449.95 Spidi JK Leather Jacket A great fitting and lightweight sheephide aimed at a wide range of bikers. The JK Leather Jacket is great for naked bike riders, tourers and urban commuters. This jacket features a removable lining, full kit of CE Multitech protectors, Clip Stop and Warrior back protector. Perfect for all around riding.

Motorhead Jacket $390 Icon Motorhead Jacket Classic styling with technical details make the Motorhead jacket a versatile performer. Exclusive Icon "straight cut" fit with broad shoulders, generous body, and ample sleeve length, make the Motorhead comfortable in any riding position. Constructed of premium quality 1.2--1.4mm cowhide leather with a fully insulated, removable liner, this jacket quickly adjusts to any riding condition. Internal CE armor and six adjustable vents complete the package. Durable 1.2-1.4mm leather chassis No restriction collarless neck Zippered shoulder intakes offer ultimate climate control Dual purpose chest pocket vents offer storage and or cooling Insulated removable liner to adjust for riding conditions Waist expansion vents allow you to adjust jacket to your size Drop tail pattern keeps jacket from riding up while on your bike Micro perforated leather arms provide cooling

GORE BIKE WEAR Power Thermo Long Sleeve Cycling Jersey $89.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Power Thermo Long Sleeve Cycling Jersey. Training in cold weather requires serious levels of warmth and protection. And GORE BIKE WEAR delivers both in their Power Thermo cycling Cycling Jersey. Soft, insulating fabrics rapidly release moisture to keep you warmer and drier on longer rides. Wear it under a rain jacket or wind vest for maximum comfort and heat retention.

Performance Response Softshell Jacket $69.99 Performance Response Softshell Jacket. If you want to stay comfy on the bike no matter what it's doing outside, then we've got the cycling jacket for you. Stretchy softshell fabric with weather protection, fleece interior and a relaxed fit keeps the cold elements out and the warmth in.

Brighton Jacket $159.99 REV'IT Brighton Jacket A good city jacket is something all urban motorcyclists need: it has to offer protection on the road, but still look good when off the bike. The BRIGHTON gives you just that. The outer fabric is highly water-repellent and dries quickly, while the removable thermal collar and lining are great for warmth on a chilly day. Topped off with a stylish matte fabric, the BRIGHTON jacket is a great urban choice. PROTECTION FEATURES: Outer shell: nubuck leather, PWR shell polycotton Insulation: detachable thermal liner Visibility: laminated reflection Protection: Knox? CE protection, EVA foam ERGONOMIC FEATURES: Fit: city fit, regular Adjustability: adjustment straps, adjustment tabs Features: two-way zipper at front, removable thermal collar Pockets: inner pockets, stash pockets, hand warmer pockets Currently Rev'It products can only be shipped to U.S. customers **Closeouts are limited to stock on hand**

Performance Women's Response Softshell Jacket $69.99 Performance Women's Response Softshell Jacket. If you want to stay comfy on the bike no matter what its doing outside, then we've got the cycling jacket for you. Stretchy softshell fabric with weather protection, fleece interior and a relaxed fit keeps the cold elements out and the warmth in.

Tornado Jacket $319.99 REV'IT! Tornado Jacket REV'IT! TORNADO is built to be your secret weapon against the heat of summer. TORNADO combines durable open mesh panels that flow air better than the competition's with REV'IT! styling and features. Like all REV'IT! jackets, TORNADO is equipped with CE-approved armor, so you don't have to sacrifice safety for comfort. And for the unexpected shower, or cooler day, a removable 2-layer inner jacket (waterpoof on the outside with light insulation on the inside) provides both waterproofing and insulation. It's wearable separately too, for added convenience when off the bike. For people fortunate enough to live in warm climate, this could become 4 season jacket. Outer shell: polyester 600D , PWR shell mesh , Lorica? , neoprene , Monaco Performance cowhide , polyester rib Protection: Knox? CE protection at shoulders and elbows, perforated EVA foam at back Insulation: detachable 2-in-1 thermal liner & membrane Waterproofing and breathability: detachable hydratex? G-liner Visibility: laminated reflection panels Fit: tour fit, regular Adjustability: adjustment straps , flexisnap , UTA tab Ventilation: ventilation panels at chest, back and arms Features: collar hook , stretch lips , double short connection zipper Pockets: inner pockets , slit pockets Currently Rev'It products can only be shipped to U.S. customers

Women's JK Jacket $219.95 Spidi Women's JK Jacket A multi-purpose textile jacket that is ideal for almost every kind of bike and riding style. An effective mix of Tenax Tactel and stretchable Tenax Flex, JK is able to adjust to different weather conditions thanks to its vents and removable internal lining. The jacket also comes with a full set of ultra-light CE Multitech armor and back pocket ready for internal Warrior Back protectors. Knitted cuffs, waistline adjustments and internal mobile phone/sunglasses holder make this jacket so versatile it will appeal to any rider, from simple commuting to weekend rides.

JK Textile Jacket $219.95 Spidi JK Textile Jacket A multi-purpose textile jacket that is ideal for almost every kind of bike and riding style. An effective mix of Tenax Tactel and stretchable Tenax Flex, JK is able to adjust to different weather conditions thanks to its vents and removable internal lining. The jacket also comes with a full set of ultra-light CE Multitech armor and back pocket ready for internal Warrior Back protectors. Knitted cuffs, waistline adjustments and internal mobile phone/sunglasses holder make this jacket so versatile it will appeal to any rider, from simple commuting to weekend rides.

O2 Rainwear Calhoun Jacket $119.95 O2 Rainwear Calhoun Jacket. If you ride long distances or train consistently in adverse conditions, then you'll appreciate the streamlined fit and weatherproof protection of the Calhoun cycling jacket. Innovative ripstop fabric blocks wind and water while allowing your skin to breathe. Form-fit design increases aerodynamics, pit zips circulate cool air, reflective elements enhance safety and waterproof chest pocket holds essentials. Super compact design packs up easily inside your backpack or bike bag.

Bellwether Monsoon Jacket $79.99 Bellwether Monsoon Jacket. Just because the rain won't quit, doesn't mean you should. That's why you need the Monsoon cycling jacket. It stuffs into its own back pocket and doubles as a storage pouch for easy on-the-bike transport. Semi-transparent, weatherproof fabric offers great protection while allowing perspiration to escape. High-visibility accents keep you visible, even during an unexpected deluge.

Performance Women's Century Jacket $49.99 Performance Women's Century Jacket. Lightweight, windproof, water-resistant -- what else could you want in a women's cycling jacket?

Performance Century II Jacket $49.99 Performance Century II Jacket. Lightweight, windproof, water-resistant -- what else could you want in a cycling jacket?

Women's Stella Lux Leather Jacket $349.99 Alpinestars Women's Stella Lux Leather Jacket The Stella Lux Leather jacket is a modern, stylish, urban jacket that looks at home on the street and on the bike. Featuring Alpinestars bio-armor in the shoulders and forearm for added protection, the jacket perfectly combines motorcycle safety with street styling making it an essential choice for the modern female biker. Features: Nappa Leather construction Removable CE certified Bio Armour protections Chest pad compartment (Alpinestars Bionic chest guards available as accessory upgrade) Zip operated side expansion gusset for additional riding comfort Removable and wearable thermal fleece vest Back protector compartment with PE padding (CE certified RC back protector available as accessory) **Closeouts are limited to stock on hand**

Airwave Jacket $199.99 REV'IT! Airwave Jacket Let the air in on those hot summer days, when the heat of the tarmac seems to burn right through the soles of your feet. There's just no excuse not to get on your bike when you have the REV'IT Airwave jacket. It allows for maximum airflow to keep you cool, whilst keeping you well protected with a combination of durable PWR shell fabric at the impact zones and strong mesh fabric at the chest, back, and arms. Available in 4 striking color combinations, to match either the black or silver Airwave trousers. PROTECTION FEATURES Outer shell: polyester 600D , PWR Shell mesh, Lorica reg, polyester rib , polyester 600D EN471 Visibility: laminated reflection at upper arms and back Protection: fully perforated EVA foam at back, Knox? Flexiform CE protection at shoulders and elbows , CE prepared for Knox? Advance X CE back protector ERGONOMIC FEATURES Fit: tour fit , regular Adjustability: adjustment straps at hips, adjustment tabs at collar, upper arms and cuffs Ventilation: ventilation panels at chest, back and arms Features: jeans loop, short connection zipper Pockets: inner pockets, slit pockets **Note:? Currently Rev'It products can only be shipped to U.S. customers

GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Sportive SO Cycling Tights with Chamois $149.99 GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Sportive SO Cycling Tights with Chamois. Did your last ride bring tears to your eyes? And was your nose running, too? Then it's time to break out some windproof cycling Cycling Tights. Windstopper Soft Shell front panels provide complete protection in cold, blustery conditions. Higher back and elastic-free waist insert enhance comfort in the aero position. Power Lady chamois puts cushioning in all the right places. Just add a thermal Cycling Jersey and a windproof jacket, and you'll be prepared for whatever blows your way.

GORE Cycling Jersey- GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Power Thermo Long Sleeve Cycling Jersey $109.99 GORE Cycling Jersey- GORE BIKE WEAR Women's Power Thermo Long Sleeve Cycling Jersey. Training in cold weather requires serious levels of warmth and protection. And GORE BIKE WEAR delivers both in their Power Thermo women's cycling Cycling Jersey. Soft, insulating fabrics rapidly release moisture to keep you warmer and drier on longer rides. Wear it under a rain jacket or wind vest for maximum comfort and heat retention.

O2 Rainwear Original Cycling Jacket $34.95 O2 Rainwear Original Cycling Jacket. Ultra-lightweight and easy to stash, the Original Cycling jacket is ready for unexpected changes in the weather. Laminated Microporous Film breathes well and provides complete weatherproof protection. High collar, elastic cuffs and longer tail offer extended coverage. Pack this jacket inside a bike bag or use the included stuff sack made with the same material.

Sugoi Versa Jacket $119.99 Sugoi Versa Jacket. Convertible coverage for wet, windy rides, the Versa cycling jacket has removable, magnetic sleeves for total control over the elements: lightweight vest or jacket whenever you need it.

Cannondale Morphis Jacket $109.99 Cannondale Morphis Jacket. A cycling jacket with a magnetic personality? You bet. Just give the magnetic sleeves a quick pull for an instant warm weather vest, and then reattach the sleeves for a full fledged jacket later on. Cannondale's jacket-and-vest combo is the easily packable, functional solution to sudden weather changes.

Performance Wind Jacket $79.99 Performance Wind Jacket. This wind-resistant and water-resistant cycling jacket will protect you from anything Mother Nature dishes out during your ride.

Mavic Club Jacket $129.99 Mavic Club Jacket. If cold, blustery weather is a regular part of your training routine, then you're going to need a jacket that'll boost your comfort AND performance.

Primal Wear Wind Jacket $79.95 Primal Wear Wind Jacket. Designed for lightweight protection with plenty of layering room, the Wind cycling jacket provides excellent comfort and weather-resistant performance.