It’s like Alpinestars engineers sat down with a list of objections to wearing airbags and eliminated or minimized every one of them with the new Tech-Air 5 Plasma inflatable protection vest.

No more changing body armor based on the type of ride. The new system, which protects the back, chest and collarbones, features three different ride modes. Alpinestars incorporated triggering algorithms from its enduro-capable system into the Plasma, making the system capable of handling adventure riding. This is added to the street and track modes available on the earlier Tech-Air 5 system.

No more downloading an app onto your smartphone to change riding modes. Track, street or off-road modes are selected with a push of a button on a small panel on the lower right side of the vest. Hold the button down and toggle through the riding modes. The display panel also indicates battery charge level and system status and provides an easily accessible Type C USB charging port.

No more struggling to get a racing suit on over the vest. The computer, gyroscope, accelerometer and single gas canister now sit in a slimmer compartment, which is barely thicker than a quality passive back protector. The single-canister configuration helps reduce the weight by 25%, to 3.373 pounds. And a zip-up fabric cover makes it even easier to slip into and out of leathers or jackets while wearing the vest.

No more sending the vest back for constant repacking. The Tech-Air 5 is fully serviceable by the user, and it takes about 30 seconds to replace a depleted canister. Replacement canisters cost $119.95, and the bladder system is good for six deployments before it has to go back to a service center. If the rider is unsure if the bladder has been compromised, a test valve allows the owner to inflate the bladder and check for leaks.

No more worrying about battery life. Out of the box, the system gets charged overnight. After that, four hours of charging provides 30 hours of riding functionality. And even if the system completely fails, the Plasma back protector incorporated into the unit meets CE Level One impact absorption standards.

And … more breathability. The system has been designed with a chest/shoulder protector that looks like an “H,” covering the ribs but allowing air to flow over most of the chest and abdomen. More high-airflow panels are incorporated into the arms, the abdomen, the neck and the back.

The level of impact attenuation remains the same as before – in simple terms, the deployed airbag absorbs the same amount of force as nine stacked-up Level Two back protectors or 18 stacked-up Level One protectors. And all of this for the same price, $789.95, as the prior model.

Riding With The Tech-Air 5

Alpinestars brought journalists out to the Antelope Valley in Southern California to sample the new system. We did a brief off-road ride, approximately 100 miles on the street and an afternoon on the Streets of Willow course at Willow Springs International Raceway.

Put it on like any other vest, zip it shut, hit the button to turn it on. Check to see that it’s got charge and that it’s in the right ride mode. Zip up your jacket. That’s it. Couldn’t be more simple. It is just a little thicker than the passive chest/back protector I normally wear under racing leathers, and I’m still breaking in my newest suit, so it rode up a bit when I pulled the leathers on. But I reached around behind my neck, pushed it back down, zipped up my leathers and that was the last time I thought about the vest.

Track riding on any sunny day in the high deserts of SoCal gets hot, and the increased ventilation definitely paid off. The Tech-Air 10 full race unit has an FIM-mandated single bladder across the entire chest, and I definitely felt it blocking the air flow. The Tech-Air 5 feels lighter, cooler, and I didn’t find it restrictive in any way.

The technology of airbag systems continues to mature, and the Tech-Air 5 incorporates the advances in the art of inflatable armor. It addresses many of the concerns that have prevented or discouraged riders from using airbags. It is hard to beat the protection offered by an inflatable system, and Alpinestars has just lowered the barriers for using one.

The post New Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 Plasma: Lighter, Smaller, Cooler appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

By Michael Gougis

When the Husqvarna rep told us that the 2025 Vitpilen 801 was based on a “shared platform” with the KTM 790 Duke, I smiled a little inside. I’m a huge fan of the Duke. So yeah, when I learned that I’d be spending the day riding a bike a lot like a Duke, I was happy.

A day of ripping the new Vitpilen along the coast and up one of Southern California’s most well-known mountain roads delivered pretty much exactly what I’d expected. If you’re on a light, torquey, good-handling bike on a twisty back road in good weather and you’re not having fun, well, it’s not the bike!

In short: The Vitpilen is the biggest naked roadster in the Husqvarna lineup, and its first Twin. They say it’s designed for an urban environment, much like its redesigned smaller sibling, the 401 Vitpilen. But it’s more powerful, has a much better power-to-weight ratio, and is designed to deliver more performance in a broader range of uses while still remaining accessible and friendly.

Vitpilen Tech

Husqvarna’s Vitpilen 801 (and the scrambler-esque-styled Svartpilen 801) share the LC8c 799cc four-stroke, DOHC Parallel Twin engine with the 790 Duke. The company claims 105 bhp and 64.2 lbs.-ft. of torque for the Husqvarnas, right in line with the output of the last 790 Duke we had on the dyno. A pair of 46mm throttle bodies handles intake duties; a 2-1 stainless steel exhaust system gets rid of the burned gasses.

Standard, the bike comes with three ride modes, Sport, Street and Rain, each with a pre-set throttle response and traction control setting. Cornering ABS is standard, and the rider can engage Supermoto mode, which deactivates ABS at the rear wheel. The optional, extra-cost Dynamic Mode on the bike I rode makes the throttle response sharper and more responsive, and includes 10-position traction control; five-position wheelie control; and electronic engine braking. A clutchless up-and-down-shift system is available as an additional, separate option, and was also on the bike I rode. An assisted slipper clutch comes standard. 

The steel twin-spar frame is shared with the Duke, with a nearly flat handlebar and a 32.9-inch seat height. Four-piston, radial-mount J.Juan calipers clamp a pair of 300mm discs in the front, with a single-piston J.Juan caliper and a 240mm disc handling rear braking. With no fuel but with all other fluids, the bike weighs a claimed 396.8 pounds.

The biggest functional difference between the Vitpilen and the Duke is the suspension. The Vitpilen’s inverted WP forks add adjustable rebound and compression damping, and the WP monoshock has adjustable rebound damping and preload. The adjustments are simple and broad. Moving the adjusters one click makes a significant difference in suspension behavior.

Oh yes, the styling. Remember that Husqvarna’s roots are deeply Swedish, as is its name; Vitpilen translates into White Arrow (and Svartpilen into Black Arrow). The Vitpilen manages to look unique and attractive in its own way, with a minimalist, solid visage that conveys the emotional concept the designers sought to project. It looks mechanical, bulbous, and sleek all at once, with the silver (not white) color scheme, I think, emphasizing the feeling of something mechanized. I’ve seen this in neo-dystopian films. It can make a rider want to wear all-black leather gear to complete the look, and Mad Max-ish apparel wouldn’t appear out of place. But yes, I like it very much, thank you.

Riding The Vitpilen

Light weight and a narrow inseam make the Vitpilen confidence-inspiring for the newer rider coming off a stoplight. The throttle pull is light and the engine responsive (I rode in Dynamic Mode and Sport Mode all day), and the clutch lever is equally easy to operate when leaving a stop. The clutchless shifting system was enabled on our test units, and it operated well over a wide range of riding situations, so clutching is minimal anyway. My only complaint was that the clutchless shifting was a little clunky for low-rpm shifts.

The solution, of course, is to avoid low rpm situations (ahem). The compact Twin spins happily, with real thrust all the way through the rev range, and it’s one of those sweet spot motors that encourages getting aggressive with the throttle without worrying  about overdoing it. Like I said, I thoroughly enjoy this engine. It pulled hard out of corners, quickly whipped up to redline, the electronic shifts smooth and seamless.

Even with the upgraded forks, the suspension still feels unsophisticated. It’s either compliant or controlled, but never both, and with the damping dialed up to keep the chassis stable, response (at the rear in particular) can be a bit jarring. On smooth pavement, the stiff-enough chassis, swingarm, and forks allowed me to flick the bike around, confidently and almost effortlessly making mid-corner corrections when the road caught me off-guard. I could rip this thing around a tight, twisty circuit all day and be ready to do it again tomorrow. The brakes did everything I wanted them to on the street, and the chassis, suspension and geometry allowed me to trail-brake into corners without upsetting the bike.

It’s not uncommon for motorcycle manufacturers to offer similar platforms in a variety of styles. I’ve always liked the Duke platform the Vitpilen is based on. In restyling the machine into a Husqvarna, the designers have lost nothing of its functionality and fun, and created an entirely different aesthetic attractive to a different set of existing and potential riders. That’s a win on every front.

Suggested retail is $10,499.

The post Intro: 2025 Husqvarna 801 Vitpilen appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

Tech-Air® 5 PLASMA is the latest addition to the Alpinestars Tech-Air® family, which includes the Tech-Air® 10, Tech-Air® 5, Tech-Air® 7x, Tech-Air® 3, Tech-Air® 3 Canvas, Tech-Air® 3 Leather, Tech-Air® 3 Stella, Tech-Air® OFF-ROAD, and Tech-Air® MX Systems. Alpinestars continues to lead the way in active airbag technology for riders and passengers. The all-new Tech-Air® 5 PLASMA is a definitive demonstration of Alpinestars’ continued commitment to making the most versatile airbag technology products in the industry.

Engineered to be ultra-lightweight, superior in comfort, and low-profile, the state-of-the-art Tech-Air® 5 PLASMA provides comprehensive upper body coverage, protecting the rider’s chest, ribs, back, and shoulders. The System is also equipped with a Nucleon PLASMA back protector for the optimum blend of comfort, flexibility, airflow, and protection. With a new dedicated algorithm featuring three Riding Modes, STREET, RACE, and OFF-ROAD, the Tech-Air® 5 PLASMA is a single-charge deployment Airbag System, and its gas canister is replaceable by the user.

With meticulous attention to weight savings, the Tech-Air® 5 PLAMSA Airbag System tips the scales at just 1530g (3.373 lbs.), more than 25 percent lighter than the existing Tech-Air® 5 Airbag System.

The ultra-slim profile features a minimalist construction design, enhancing rider comfort and the overall wearability of the system under any Alpinestars jacket. The main material features a full-stretch chassis construction for superior breathability, with a moisture-wicking treatment for maximum rider comfort, and is fully washable.

The Tech-Air® 5 PLASMA comes with a new dedicated algorithm and three Riding Modes – STREET, RACE, and OFF-ROAD – which can be changed by easily pushing the Display Button, even with gloves on. This newest addition to the Tech-Air® lineup is a single-charge deployment Airbag System that can be serviced by the user up to six times before a full-service airbag replacement is required. This new system utilizes an easily accessed Type C charging port featured on the lower right torso.

TECHNOLOGY:
The latest evolution of the Tech-Air® wearable technology features a more compact and complete active electronic system that features 6 sensors (2 tri-axial sensors). 1 tri-axial accelerometer and 1 tri-axial gyroscope located on the main electronic control unit leverage AI to accurately monitor when to deploy the airbag in the event of a crash.

The System is also extremely easy to use; just zip up the vest and close the magnetic flap, and you’re ready to ride. An LED display indicates the Airbag System’s operational status, and the integrated, certified lithium-ion battery has a battery life of 30 hours of riding time.

Tech-Air® 5 PLASMA has Bluetooth connectivity and an accompanying Tech-Air® App, which uses the rider’s phone to display the System’s operational status, battery status, and a detailed ride analysis; The System’s firmware can also be easily updated directly via the app.

Over 20 years ago, Alpinestars began development on the original Tech-Air® System. When launched in the market in 2011, the Tech-Air® System was recognized as the world’s first airbag providing full upper body protection with a completely independent electronic management system, in addition to having the versatility of the vest which could be easily zipped into a variety of Tech-Air® compatible jackets. In December 2019, Tech-Air® 5 was recognized by CES, as one of the must-see innovative products in the Wearables Technology Marketplace.

SIZES OFFERED: XS-XXL

PRICING: $789.95 (US Dollars)

OFFICIAL RELEASE: MID-MARCH 2025 (US) – OCTOBER 2025 (INTERNATIONALLY)

A History of Alpinestars Tech-Air® Airbag Technology: Pioneering Innovation in Rider Safety

2001: Tech-Air® Airbag System project begins.

2004: Alpinestars performs its first electronic airbag test; with outer airbag balloons of 2 x 60 liters. Alpinestars decided to use electronic triggering for the airbag as the company analyzed and studied all solutions and discovered that with a mechanical system, the activation is not fast enough to guarantee first-impact protection.

2004: Alpinestars also starts collecting riding data from professional riders in MotoGP.

2009: Alpinestars introduces Tech-Air® Race in MotoGP.

2011: Tech-Air® Race is integrated into Alpinestars’ top leather suit and becomes available to final customers.

2014: The Tech-Air® Street Airbag System is launched to the market at the EICMA show in Milan, as a modular self-contained electronic Airbag System that provides first impact protection for the full upper torso. Tech-Air® Street is the first System in the market to provide this level of protection. Additionally, the System allows the rider to easily switch between Tech-Air® compatible garments and to adapt these garments to his/her riding requirements and the weather conditions.

2016: Tech-Air® Race is introduced as a modular System that allows riders to not only choose between a wide variety of compatible suits and garments but to choose between algorithms; riders can switch between racetrack use and public road use with the RACE and STREET algorithms. Tech-Air® Race is the first Airbag System in the market to allow this option.

2020: The Tech-Air® 5 System is launched, joining the Tech-Air® Race and Tech-Air® Street vests, in the Alpinestars Tech-Air® line-up. The Tech-Air® Off-Road System is offered to all professional Rally riders.

2022: The Tech-Air® 3 and The Tech-Air® 10 Systems are launched to the market. The Tech-Air® Off-Road V2 system is offered to all professional Rally riders.

2024: The Tech-Air® 7x, and Tech-Air Off-Road Systems are launched to the public, and Tech-Air® MX is offered to professional riders in MXGP.

2025: Tech-Air® 5 PLASMA is revealed at CES in Las Vegas.

The post Alpinestars Unveils Tech-Air 5 Plasma Airbag appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

Stronger, more powerfully innovative products…and people

With a renewed commitment toward assembling the best distribution and sales team in the United States, AIROH Helmets of Italy has obtained and secured distribution rights for the innovative brand’s world-renowned helmet products with an all new AIROH USA facility and team. Dennis Bloch, affiliated with SEVEN MX, James Stewart’s apparel company, will be heading up the new distribution, marketing and sales teams here in America. More well-known helmet executives and sales representatives will be announced following at the product’s media launch to be held in southern California on January 23rd.

Known for its incredibly beautiful and functional Italian designs, AIROH Helmets will be revealing its latest products for distribution to dealers in 2025. It’s upgraded facility located in Bergamo, northern Italy complete with its own wind tunnel and helmet testing laboratory is true to its founder’s mission: to create and produce high-quality helmets that are synonymous with safety, design and performance. It is true many other helmet brands make similar claims, but it is undisputed that Italian companies have a keen eye for beautiful design and par excellence taste. Founder Antonio Locatelli has always had a deep passion for the racing world and has thus included its embedded DNA into each product manufactured and beautifully crafted in Bergamo, Italy enabling the company to obtain 150 world titles in motorcycle racing.

Dennis Bloch, CEO of AIROH USA, proudly shares, “AIROH has had a presence in the USA Supercross field for about 10 years, but we are now equipped with a broader product lineup and an exceptional sales team to make a significant impact. From off-road and street to cruiser and sportbike helmets, AIROH is poised to offer it all. Nicknamed the ‘Ferrari for your head,’ the brand captivates anyone who sees it—and truly impresses once they pick it up. Known for its deep racing heritage, lightweight design, and striking aesthetics, AIROH stands apart.”

The brand will be available directly to dealers through AIROH USA in Spring 2025. Stay tuned for the launch!

Look for AIROH Helmets on the heads of Jason Anderson, Tom Vialle, MRP Husqvarna, Cody Webb, and Cooper Abbott this year in the USA. On the international circuit, look for AIROH helmets on Jeffrey Herlings, Antonio Cairoli, Liam Everts, David Alonso, Andrea Locatelli, Danilo Petrucci and many more.

About AIROH Helmets Italy
Airoh was founded in the province of Bergamo, in Northern Italy, the company has always had a clear mission to create and produce high-quality helmets that are synonymous with safety, design, and performance. These features, designed to satisfy the best riders, are available to every passionate two-wheeled enthusiast who uses them on asphalt, dirt, sand, snow, and in any other terrain. Over the years, the company’s DNA has evolved, but it has never forgotten its origins, values, and the deep passion for the racing world, and beyond. This passion has consistently led to the achievement of incredible milestones, as evidenced by the company’s impressive
list of accomplishments, including and incredible number of over 150 world titles from 1997 to the present. #DARETOBEGREAT

About AIROH USA
Airoh’s U.S. entity embodies the same passion, innovation, and commitment to excellence that originated in Bergamo, Italy. Dedicated to providing high-quality helmets designed for safety, performance, and style, Airoh brings its legacy of over 150 world titles to American riders. The A iroh USA team is being formed with top industry experts in each field, ensuring unparalleled expertise and strategy as Airoh establishes a strong presence in the American powersports market. Whether conquering asphalt or dirt Airoh helmets are crafted to meet the demands of champions and enthusiasts alike. With deep roots in the racing world and an unwavering #DARETOBEGREAT philosophy, Airoh is poised to inspire and protect riders across the United States.

The post Italy’s AIROH Helmets Setting Up U.S. Distribution appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

Electric Bikes For Kids

These three electric bikes — the STACYC 16e Drive, the Kawasaki Elektrode, and the SUPER73 K1D — are designed and sized for kids. They all have 16-inch wheels (composite on the STACYC, cast aluminum on the Kawasaki, steel wire-spoked with aluminum rims on the SUPER73) with pneumatic tires and twist grip throttles. The Kawasaki and STACYC have adjustable handlebar and seat height. The STACYC and SUPER73 have removable, rechargeable batteries that can be swapped out with already-charged spares (not included) for continuous riding; the Kawasaki has a built-in battery and plug-in charger. The STACYC weighs 21.5 pounds and sells for $1,049; the SUPER73 weighs 28 pounds and sells for $1,295; and the Kawasaki weighs 32.5 pounds and sells for $1,099. Available from STACYC, SUPER73, and Kawasaki dealers.

The post Flashback: Holiday Gift Guide–Electric Bikes For Kids appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

(Editor’s note: This post originally ran on December 12th, 2022, so don’t count on the pricing being accurate now, in December 2024.)

An effective way to teach kids to ride on two wheels is to start them on a Strider 12 Classic (MSRP $119.99) balance bike designed for ages 18-months to 3 years. It has 12-inch wheels, adjustable seat and handlebar height, and is available with an easy-to-install, easy to remove optional rocker base (MSRP about $30) for the youngest kids.

When they’re ready, the bike can be removed from the rocker base and a kid can quickly learn to move it forward with their feet, and then balance and coast with their feet up.

For older kids, the Strider 14x (with 14-inch wheels, MSRP $219.00) can be used as a balance bike and later be fitted with an optional pedal kit (MSRP $69.99) to make it a bicycle.

A step up to powered riding is a twist-grip-equipped Stacyc 12e Drive electric bike (MSRP $799.00) for ages 3-5 or a 16e (MSRP $1,049) or larger 18e or 20e models for older kids, available with assorted motorcycle brand graphics.

And Indian sells the eFTR mini, which has a twist-grip throttle, two speed settings, and is designed for kids eight and older weighing less than 140 pounds (MSRP $529.99), and the larger eFTR Jr., which has a twist-grip throttle, chain drive, dual disc brakes, and a maximum weight rating of 175 pounds (MSRP $849.99).

Once a kid has mastered a larger machine, many gas minibikes are available, or, if a kid wants to stay on an electric, KTM offers the electric SX-E 3 and SX-E 5. Husqvarna and GasGas branded versions are also available.

The KTM SX-E 5 is based on KTM’s SX 50 motocross racebike with adjustable long-travel WP XACT suspension, 12-inch wheels, an adjustable seat height, and lockable ride modes (1-6) to limit power and speed (up to 45 mph in Mode 6) to a rider’s skillset. MSRP is $5,499.

The KTM SX-E3 (MSRP $4,999) shares the SX-E5’s chrome-moly steel tube chassis, WP suspension, and motor with lockable ride modes, but has 10-inch wheels, and a lower (and adjustable) seat height. A lower-voltage 648 Wh battery reduces the power output from 5 kW (6.7 hp) to 3.8 kW (5.1 hp) with a lower top speed, but can be swapped for the larger-capacity, higher-voltage 907 Wh battery from the SX-E 5 if the rider’s skill grows faster than their body.

Intro: Kawasaki Elektrode Electric Balance Bike

By Hayley Ulrich Zeidman

My son Max Zeidman, age eight, enjoys riding bicycles, but isn’t a natural daredevil; he’s more of a methodical learner, whose tenacity often results in great results after he gets over his initial apprehension. He had this same attitude when it comes to mini-motorcycles…he likes them, but wasn’t prepared to ride them himself.

Enter the 2023 Kawasaki Elektrode, Kawasaki’s entry level, very basic electric balance bike built for riders ages 3-8 and under 99 pounds. Designed for beginners as a first step to motorcycle confidence, the company brags that it has “over-engineered” the bike so that even the youngest riders have a positive experience.

It has an aluminum frame with a built-in battery pack good for up to 2-1/2 hours of running time, and an equal recharge time. Being powered by an electric motor built into the rear wheel hub, this light but sturdy bike delivers power in a smooth, linear, predictable fashion so that beginning riders can gradually build up comfort with power and control. The motor is almost silent, which helps unsure kids feel less intimidated (as opposed to the noise of a typical engine).

Other key design points include a low center of gravity and ideal balance point for easy turning and leaning, as well as no chain and no moving external parts on the drive-train. The bike has cool, pneumatic knobby dirt tires on 16-inch cast aluminum wheels, with three speed modes (Low, 5 mph; Medium, 7.5 mph; High, 13 mph) selected by entering a unique passcode into an onboard parental lock. Suggested retail price is $1,099.

As an non-intimidating entry-level bike, the Kawasaki Elektrode is an absolute slam-dunk. Max and I were asked by the editor (Max’s grandfather) to represent Roadracing World at an intro and test-ride event held at Fox Racing’s headquarters in Irvine, California, near Kawasaki’s offices. Max wasn’t sure about riding the Elektrode on the dirt, but gained confidence in a parking lot cone course. Soon, he was ready to ride the Elektrode on a simple kid dirt track behind the Fox building. Max, who weighs 55 pounds, initially crashed in one of the corners, but was able to easily pick up the 32-pound Elektrode on his own and get going again.

Max said of the experience, “It was really fun. At first I was just getting the hang of it and I was slow, and I tipped over. I got going better, and later on, in one turn, I started crashing. But I didn’t crash because I had more focus and control on the motorcycle.” Max admittedly doesn’t have a lot of powered riding experience, but gained so much confidence on the Elektrode that he said he wanted one as a holiday gift! With easy maintenance and durability, this makes a lot of sense as a present, and is designed to be passed along to younger siblings and cousins after it’s been outgrown.

The post Flashback: A Great Gift Is Teaching Kids To Ride On Two Wheels appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

TECH SPECS

MotoGP spec helmet — FIM Certified

DOT and ECE 22.06 Certified

Reinforcement Materials: Carbon, Carbon-Glass Hybrid Fabric

SilverCool Enhanced Moisture Wicking Removable, Washable Crown and Cheek Pads

Includes: Breath Deflector, Chin Curtain, Tear-Offs, Clear Extended Aero-Spoiler

Speaker Pockets for Bluetooth Communication

Standards: FIM, ECE, & DOT Approved

Weight: 3.33 lbs / 1508 grams (approx, based on size medium)

DESCRIPTION: The RPHA 1N was designed and developed after several years of focused efforts and crucial feedback from top world-class athletes in MotoGP, including MotoGP star Brad Binder. HJC’s top engineers went to work and created a race-bred helmet that is truly worthy of top race circuits around the world. The RPHA 1N is the very same model used by HJC’s world-class athletes in both MotoGP and WorldSBK.

AERODYNAMIC PERFORMANCE: The HJC RPHA 1N is engineered for optimal aerodynamic performance, utilizing high-performance materials infused with epoxy resin and fiber tissue, commonly used in the aircraft industry and racing environments. Its sleek shell design reduces drag, enhancing stability at high speeds, making it ideal for competitive racing conditions.

SUPERIOR VENTILATION: The HJC RPHA 1N features the ACS Advanced Channeling Ventilation System with 5 intakes and 4 exhausts for superior airflow. This full front-to-back ventilation effectively flushes out heat and humidity, reducing visor fogging and keeping you cool and comfortable throughout your ride.

VISOR SYSTEM: The HJC RPHA 1N’s visor system features an all-new easy attachment design, allowing for quick, tool-less visor replacements. Equipped with a 2 Pivot Ratchet system and a double visor locking mechanism, it offers enhanced security and easy operation, ensuring reliable performance even in high-speed racing conditions.

SAFETY: The HJC RPHA 1N prioritizes safety with its Premium Integrated Matrix (P.I.M.) construction, offering enhanced impact protection, durability, and lightweight stability. Designed for emergency situations, the helmet features an Emergency Kit with cheek pads for quick and safe rescue. Additionally, the EPS design accommodates both eyeglasses and sunglasses for rider convenience.

HJC RPHA 1N BRAD BINDER Replica Helmet, $839.99

The post HJC Launches Brad Binder Replica Helmet appeared first on Roadracing World Magazine | Motorcycle Riding, Racing & Tech News.

Honda established manufacturing operations in America in 1979 with the start of motorcycle production in Marysville, Ohio, and today has one of the largest and most diverse U.S. manufacturing footprints of any international company. Nearly 23,000 U.S. associates support the company’s 12 manufacturing plants in America, supporting operations that have an annual capacity of more than 1 million automobiles, over 1.5 million engines, 60,000 power equipment products and 200,000 powersports products, as well as the HondaJet advanced light jet and GE Honda HF120 turbofan engines.

Technical Development Center enhances manufacturing skills of Honda associates through education and training courses

Honda Heritage Center Museum displays rich history of Honda products, manufacturing and R&D operations in North America

Honda has celebrated the 10th anniversary of two key facilities housed in the Honda Heritage Center (HHC) in Ohio – the Honda Technical Development Center (TDC), one of the leading resources for the advancement of manufacturing skills for current and future Honda associates, and the HHC Museum, which showcases the innovative history and growth Honda has achieved in North America during the past 65 years.

The Honda Heritage Center, located across the street from the Marysville Auto Plant, opened in November 2014. The $35 million, 160,000-square-foot facility, includes the museum, Technical Development Center and office space for numerous Honda business areas that support the company’s operations throughout North America.

The TDC and HHC museum recognized the shared 10th anniversary with an open house event and ceremony with Honda leaders, associates and special guests.

The TDC provides technical education and training courses that allow Honda production associates to learn or enhance a wide range of manufacturing skills. Responsible for developing and delivering technical training, the TDC leads technical education programs for Honda U.S.-based manufacturing plants.

“The Honda Heritage Center Museum tracks our history of more than six decades in America, including over 45 years of U.S. manufacturing,” said Bob Nelson, executive vice president at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “As we celebrate the museum’s 10th anniversary, we’re excited to again welcome visitors five days a week to learn about our exciting past, present and future.”

The museum restricted visitation hours during the pandemic but will open to the public five days a week again beginning November 21. The museum highlights products and significant milestones in the history of Honda in North America with more than 70 displays including historic products, future concepts and interactive exhibits.

Honda Technical Development Center
The TDC was designed to deliver state-of-the-art training to strengthen the technical skills of Honda associates and to ensure equipment reliability in Honda manufacturing facilities. The TDC combines classroom and experiential learning opportunities through more than 200 courses covering a variety of technical topics.

Recognizing the need to constantly evolve associate training, the TDC has created a flexible facility that allows the team to add courses to support new technologies such as electric vehicles (EV).

“Reflecting our strong focus on workforce development, the team at the Honda Technical Development Center continues to evolve our training programs to keep our associates abreast of the latest technologies as new equipment is introduced into our manufacturing facilities,” said TDC leader Aaron Suchland. “As we prepare for the challenges of EV production, we are developing training to support our unique approach of flexible production of petrol, hybrid and all-electric vehicles for our customers.”

Since opening the first center in the HHC, the TDC has expanded its offerings to new facilities in Ohio, Alabama and Indiana that support Honda associates in the U.S., Mexico and Canada.

While the TDC delivers classes to an average of 3,000 associates per year, it has also hosted numerous students and community groups to promote workforce activities, demonstrating some of the technologies used in manufacturing.

Honda Manufacturing in America
Honda has been producing automobiles in America for over 40 years, beginning in November 1982 with the start of automobile production at the Marysville Auto Plant.

In 2023, 70% of all Honda and Acura automobiles sold in the U.S. were made in America, using domestic and globally sourced parts. Cumulative Honda auto production in America now exceeds 30 million vehicles.

Honda established manufacturing operations in America in 1979 with the start of motorcycle production in Marysville, Ohio, and today has one of the largest and most diverse U.S. manufacturing footprints of any international company. Nearly 23,000 U.S. associates support the company’s 12 manufacturing plants in America, supporting operations that have an annual capacity of more than 1 million automobiles, over 1.5 million engines, 60,000 power equipment products and 200,000 powersports products, as well as the HondaJet advanced light jet and GE Honda HF120 turbofan engines.

Cumulatively, Honda has invested over $19 billion in its U.S. manufacturing operations, including nearly $2.4 billion over the past five years alone. The company also works with 620 U.S. original equipment suppliers, with U.S.-sourced parts purchases of more than $520 billion since 1979.

Learn more at https://hondainamerica.com/.

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CIRCUIT DE BARCELONA-CATALUNYA, SPAIN – This iconic Martinator collection embodies Jorge Martin’s tenacious ambition on track, relentless competitive spirit, and everyday work ethic. Engineered to deliver top-tier performance, the Limited Edition Martinator Supertech R10 Racing Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots provide advanced protection and enhanced safety.

Featuring race-proven innovations, both the S-R10 Helmet and the Supertech R Boots provide maximum airflow, comfort, and unparalleled protective technology. In this special edition, the Martinator replica products mirror Jorge’s MotoGP racing equipment and his unyielding drive.

Jorge Martin: “Martinator is a nickname my father gave me because of my strength, ability to overcome, and perseverance. There have been some chapters throughout my sporting career that have reflected this nickname, such as the tendon injury in my hand requiring a ‘bionic’ glove in 2018, or the bad crash in Portimão in 2021. Through these experiences, along with my self-improvement mentality and work ethic, I’ve forged the Martinator persona that has driven me to where I am today.”

The Limited Edition Martinator S-R10 Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots give fans the unique opportunity to experience the track like MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin, inspiring them to push their limits and persevere in all conditions.

The Martinator Supertech R Vented Boots are now available for purchase online at alpinestars.com and at authorized Alpinestars dealers for €649.95 / $649.95. The Martinator S-R10 Helmet is set to launch ahead of the 2025 MotoGP season, with availability scheduled for February 25, 2025, at 6 PM CET / 9 AM PST for €1,349.95 / $1,349.95. The Martinator S-R10 will come equipped with two interchangeable race and standard spoilers, clear and dark smoke visors, a set of tear-offs, a Pinlock lens, and both wind and breath deflectors—all conveniently storable in the included paddock helmet bag.

Supertech R10 Road Racing Helmet: MotoGP-Grade Performance
The culmination of years of rigorous research, development, and testing, Alpinestars’ Supertech R-10 Helmet stands as one of the world’s most advanced helmets for racers and riders worldwide. A signature characteristic of the S-R10’s design is its cutting-edge aerodynamics, fine-tuned through extensive wind tunnel testing to reduce drag and optimize aerodynamic stability at high speeds. The helmet’s aerodynamics are perfectly paired with advanced ventilation, exceptional comfort, and an eye-catching design.

Supertech R Vented Boots: MotoGP-Grade Performance for Track and Road
The Supertech R Vented Boots set the benchmark for high-performance protective footwear, born from Alpinestars’ comprehensive research and real-world testing with MotoGP and World Superbike champions. The inner bootie offers enhanced impact protection, while the compound rubber sole provides superior grip on the pegs, making these boots the definitive choice for riders seeking peak performance and comfort both on and off the track.

Key features include extensive perforations for optimal ventilation, a flex area and rear bellow for enhanced flexibility, a TPU shifter for superior medial protection, and an ergonomically profiled shin plate for optimal impact absorption.

Note: (The Boots are available now. The Helmet arrives in stock February 2025.)

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Dainese has unveiled Smart Air – the latest iteration of their wearable airbag system that monitors a rider’s surroundings and when an imminent accident is detected (often before the rider even knows there is danger), it deploys a shield-like airbag in 45 milliseconds, more than four times faster than the blink of an eye.

Major D-Air® updates: Smart Air features the new D-Air system which features a triple activation airbag, which supports 3 deployments with no need for airbag replacement and utilizes a user-replaceable gas canister.

Dainese invented the motorcycle airbag 20+ years ago and this garment is designed for the everyday rider. D-Air technology represents the peak of safety in motorcycle protective gear, using the same patented innovation trusted by MotoGP champions.

The Smart Air is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the Dainese Smart Jacket, and features the new D-Air® triple-activation airbag, which doesn’t need replacing until after three deployments, as well as a user-friendly replaceable gas generator, which deploys the airbag in 45 milliseconds, more than four times faster than the blink of an eye.

Built for the everyday rider, D-air® technology is the pinnacle of safety in motorcycle protective garments and the same patented technology used by MotoGP champions. The D-air® airbag integrates proprietary internal microfilaments that, when the system activates, control air to create a hardlink shield protecting vital organs. The new Smart Air features a Level 2 certified chest and back airbag and is capable of use for road and light off-road motorcycle use. The whole system is powered by a rechargeable battery that can last up to 12 hours of riding before needing a recharge.

Available at Dainese.com

Features:

Design: Lightweight and ergonomic. Can be worn over or under any outfit owing to its new minimal concept design.

New D-Air® Components: The system can deploy up to three times before requiring a replacement of just the airbag itself, and all essential components, including the gas generator, are user-replaceable.

Sizing: XS/S-X/2X

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