Upper Body Protection
Stay Ahead of the Pack with an XLMOTO Neck Brace
Neck braces often divide opinion. Motorcyclists either love them or loathe them. Furthermore, some riders believe that motorcycle braces are more of a hindrance than a help.
The only way to answer those who doubt their effectiveness is to present them with evidence. The Action Sports EMS Ambulance Service works at amateur motocross events in five US states. Their epic ten-year study revealed that neck braces work. Their findings show that riders are 82% more likely to receive some form of neck injury when not wearing a neck brace.
Neck braces are not compulsory riding kit. They are, however, a sensible idea. Better yet, with XLMOTO's extensive collection of motorcycle braces, there's no need for anyone to put their neck on the line.
What is a Motorcycle Neck Brace?
A motorcycle neck brace or neck collar is an item of personal protective gear. It fits around the neck and in most cases, it secures via straps to chest armour.
The role of the neck brace is to prevent the neck from hyper-extending, flexing, whiplashing or compressing unnaturally in the event of an accident. It performs this task by resting on the shoulder/collarbone area and provides the helmet with a base on which to land.
The added support and shock absorbing action prevent the head from excessive and potentially damaging movement. The hinged brace is worn over a shirt with an opening mechanism in the front or side.
Base models will have minimal adjustment. Meanwhile, top-end neck braces feature adjustable front and rear struts.
Neck Brace Materials
Base-level neck braces have an anatomical design and fit around the neck. Inside they feature a contoured shock-absorbent foam interior and abrasion-resistant covering. Most neck protection at this level will have a washable comfort liner.
Basic models tend to be one-size. They have universal attachments connecting to the chest plate or roost deflector.
A step up from basic models will see impact-resistant thermoplastics and polyamide/fiberglass composite constructions. These are much stronger, offering increased adjustability and connection points.
As you would expect, top-of-the-range neck braces pack every conceivable feature. These include multi-adjustment points and high-tech materials like carbon fibre.
These top-shelf protectors are lightweight. They offer the best protection and most times have attachments that connect to the same brand chest plates.
You may also see adjustable front and rear struts specifically designed to break off after impact absorption.
Emergency quick release fasteners are also a popular feature. These enable the neck brace to remove in an accident quickly.
XLMOTO’s Motorcycle Chest Protectors Offer Vital Protection
Previous generations of motorcyclists have either shunned or opted to wear the minimum safety gear. Twenty-first-century riders, though, are a lot more safety savvy.
Today, advances in materials and designs mean motorcycle safety gear is easy to wear and offers excellent protection. Nowhere are these innovations more welcome than in the safety-conscious chest protector.
Motorcycle chest protectors boast combinations of hard outer shells with shock-absorbing foam inners and impact dispersing cell structures. Advanced manufacturing techniques also allow for an anatomical fit, offering superior protection. Meanwhile, multiple adjustable straps ensure they stay in position.
Whether you enjoy the occasional track day, weekend road trip, or battle through the urban jungle, chest protection is integral to your armoury.
The ribs feel tough. Yet, pit them against a rock, handlebars or another solid object, and extra protection for your vital organs can be a life-saver.
Types of motorcycle chest protectors
Whatever riding style you enjoy or the level of protection you desire, you will find the ideal chest protector among XLMOTO’s extensive range.
Do you like the idea of extra protection but would prefer to keep it undercover? Then why not opt for a jersey-style liner featuring removable chest pads? These garments are ideal for wearing under your favourite motorcycle jacket.
Vest-style chest protectors that provide high levels of impact resistance are also available from XLMOTO. These vests are thin enough to wear under a jacket, thanks to shock-absorbent gel cells.
Are you looking to go over the top? XLMOTO offers a range of chest protectors that meet the highest European safety standards (1621-3, Level 2). These protectors feature combinations of hard plastic shells with foam inners for wear over a jersey or jacket.
Features to look for in a motorcycle chest protector
To perform their job effectively it’s vital that chest protectors are well-fitting. It is this that makes adjustability a high priority. Adjustable, elasticated straps fit around the upper torso, while adjustable shoulder straps allow the protector to sit correctly on the chest.
Chest protectors also need to remain in place. In which case, waist fastenings or straps that incorporate kidney belts are a good idea.
If this is your first piece of safety kit you may want the option to add to it later so look for a chest protector with a modular design. This feature allows you to add further protection to the chassis. Add-ons can include shoulder pads, back protectors, and neck braces.
A chest protector is close fitting so airflow is a must. It’s preferable for gel pads to have honeycombing. Meanwhile, nylon mesh and perforated linings will allow heat and sweat to dissipate. Vents or air valves will also promote air movement under the protector.
For the track or the street, XLMOTO’s extensive range of motorcycle chest protectors adds an extra layer of two-wheel safety.