Michael
Terre Haute, IN
Nice upgrade for Rhoma Drystar Jacket
This is a far better back protector than what comes with the Rhoma from the factory. It’s not the end all for back protection but for the price, it’s a welcome upgrade to the A* jackets
Chris Crenshaw
Cary, NC
Very Stiff but Seems Effective
This pad looks and feels as though it would perform great if you needed it; however, with an airflow jacket it is very uncomfortable. It feels as though you have a plank of wood on your back. Even with extensive breaking in, it still doesn't really contort to a comfortable form. Also, if you're a sport rider it may prevent your helmet from rocking back when you're looking up as you're tucked...not good. I recommend buying on the small side for this reason; only if you decide that the safety bonus outweighs the comfort factor.
Matt
Milpitas, CA
Better than nothing...
I ordered this protector a while back to replace the foam pad in my Alpinestars Sniper jacket. I ordered a large protector since I wear a large jacket. While it seemed to be the same size as the foam pad, it was rather bulky and a bit uncomfortable, especially at first. It took a little breaking in to make it a little flexible, however, do not expect this to really change. The shape of the protector does really show in my Sniper jacket, but it appears to be some good protection. This is of course more important than looking good.
Zeb
sacramento, CA
Better than nothing
Bulky but inexpensive fits my Alpinestar jacket fine and is better than nothing.
thomas maraschiello
lockport, NY
Neccessary
I have all Alpinestars gear and the medium RC protector fits great in my large spinner jacket and medium T-Breeze jacket. In my leather its not noticeably stiff because the leather is thick, but in the airflow jacket its stiff, but I had back surgery and feel safer with it on. It’s easy to remove for a night out too. Would buy this again.
randy meliota
rancho palos verdes, CA
Alpinestars-RC Back Protector
These are well built back protectors (I bought 3) that fit perfectly in my 3 Stunt Leather jackets that I use for track days. These are approved. The price was excellent also.
Sean Tempesta
San Francisco, CA
Seemed a little large, but cheap CE protection
I ordered a medium to put in my medium Alpinestar's 7-10WP jacket -- and when I lean over I can feel it poking up within my jacket. So, minus the minor shoulder hump that this adds, it seems like great back armor at a great price.
MH
Yardley, MI
Back Protector
This piece is EXTREMELY hard and rigid, as noted above. I would only find myself wearing this when doing serious long rides or even track days. I feel it makes the jacket too cumbersome for "quick" rides.
JC
Granbury, TX
MUST HAVE!!!!
I can't believe that this is not a standard part of the AS jackets. If you are going to spend the money to buy a good, armored jacket, then it only makes sense to spend a little more to get this back protector. Installs in 2 minutes and gives you protection in the most important part of your upper body. I'd recommend installing it before you ever wear your jacket so you won't feel that it is slightly stiffer. However, it has no effect on my movement. This is a MUST BUY! Without it, it'd be
Dave
richmond, KS
RC back protector
I got this as a replacement for my Alpinestars ice jacket's dinky foam piece. This armor is tremendously thick and tough, in a good way, but that's also the problem, it's like wearing a surfboard on your back. Does not bend or contort in anyway, so it takes some getting used too.