Choosing and buying a motorcycle airbag vest : I bought a Helite ETurtle V2 July 2024

 

Added Nov 2024 link to https://www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/reviews/products/motorcycle-armour-and-base-layers/best-motorcycle-airbag-vest-jacket

https://www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/reviews/products/motorcycle-armour-and-base-layers/helite-turtle-2-review-e-turtle-airbag

Ive been considering buying an airvest since getting back into riding 2 yrs ago.
With multiple choices, sizing queries and always a bill to pay I never finally took the plunge until now (July 2024)

What did I do?

• Evaluate the market ( a lot !)
• Lots of choices
• Tethered or Electronic activation
• Subscription or outright purchase

What have I worn up to this point?

Before this I wore a seperate Forcefield back protector UNDER my Dianese fabric gear.
Something like this 
https://jsaccessories.co.uk/product/forcefield-pro-l2k-evo-dynamic-back-35196

Just something Ive always done from day 1 riding (even in 2 piece leathers).
Simple, Level 2 armour and protects back/spine. easy to wear and you soon ignore its there.

But its now 2024 and technology moves on , and im now 52 years old.
I have 2 children and always think about the what ifs.
I dont think theres much you can do about preventing broken extremities riding a motorcycle but certainly airbags do protect your back/spine/neck from the more serious injuries that could lead to being paralysed, so if I can afford a BMW S1000R , I can no longer justify not getting an airbag either.

Over the last 2 years Ive narrowed it down to Helite V2 E-Turtle 

(Of course now Ive bought one there will be a V3 released !)

• its worn OVER your jacket, and can be used with any equipment
• It has a level 2 back protector internal (so I can lose the seperate back protector)

(Note the helite backpack and others only have a static L1 back protector, the eturtle back protector is L2)

• Although simple (and cheaper) I didnt want a tether and felt the 25hrs battery life of the eturtle was enough.

(At most I ride for 14hrs in a day on trips)

• It can be reused without sending back (you just fit a new canister)
• the concept of subscription for a safety device seem horrific to me, so that why I avoided the other market leaders
  
• cost seems reasonable (£600) compared to other devices
• I chose black over yellow

Canister for eturtle is twice the price of a tethered canister (£65 vs £30)

Cost

https://heliteuk.co.uk/product/helite-e-turtle/
XLL Black is £695

https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/motorcycle_parts/content_prod/796259
XLL Black is £616 (currently on discount)
and sportsbikeshop have an awesome returns policy.



Sizing

Contacted helite and they suggested XL based on my height and weight
I dropped into Sportsbike shop Preston and they luckily had 2 I could try on

Im 6ft 1 in tall
Im 19 stone (120kg) and have a large chest

The size guide from helite

my measurements easily took me into (or above!) the XLL category.
but I needed to try some on

Trying on some sizes

XL : too small around the waist
L-L : adjusting the straps this seems to fit ok

I took pictures and sent to helite and they suggested I needed to go up to XL-L to get the correct back length

Pictures below are me trying on the L-L at SBS in Preston

It fitted OK , and in many respects looks like all the marketing photos, notice how its not as long and when viewed from the front is higher up.

When I sent these to Helite they suggested I could use either the LL OR the XLL but the XLL would be better for extended back protection

I then ordered LL and XLL from Sportsbike shop.
Tried both on and decided XL-L was the correct size due to back and hip coverage.

Sportsbikeshop have great returns policy so I just sent the LL back for a refund.

Below pictures are me trying on the XLL.

Note the fact it covers more of my tail bone (coccyx)

Its not as neat and "fitted" looking as the LL , but for me the enhanced protection and recomendation from helite I chose the XL-L size

What does the helite eturtle v2 cover?
 
From the helite manual

A. IMPACTS AND DETECTED ACCIDENTS

Autonomous version (without SDU fork sensor), the system only detects accidents from a speed above 20 km/h. Here are the possible detection cases: - Motorcycle striking or being struck by a significant obstacle (vehicle, wall, post, etc.) from the front, side or rear. - Slides and falls (high side, low side). The detection system of the autonomous version uses the GPS signal to optimize the triggering situations. If the system does not detect or badly detects the GPS signal we cannot guarantee the triggering of the airbag.


When the vest is associated with the SDU fork sensor, the list of detected accidents is extended to impacts from 0 km/h (e.g. impact when stopped by a third party vehicle). The detection time is significantly faster in case of an impact against a vehicle. Please note that each accident is different. Even though the Helite crash detection system covers a large majority of potential accidents, there is always a non-zero risk of non-triggering.

So the fork sensor

• Adds detection below 20km/h (12.4mph)
• Reduces the detection time for all accidents

If you want that youll need the
https://heliteuk.co.uk/product/helite-e-bike-fork-sensor-pack/
which is £125

For the moment Im running just with the vest.


Experience

I bought the vest specifically for 3 days  on the NC500 2024

see 

https://johnoldfield.blogspot.com/2024/07/days-1-to-3-nc500-2024-summary.html

Pros

• last easily all day (in fact it should last 25hrs+)
• easy to switch on
• can see LED in mirrors , but could be brighter / more obvious
• light and not even aware you are wearing it once on
• it just works

Cons

• its definitely warmer (blocks airflow)
• The size I chose definitely bunches up sometimes , see in the pic below how its raised above my shoulders / the bottom of the vest digs into the gap on the rear of the S1000R seat

Verdict


For me its a huge win, Ive finally chosen and Im wearing an airbag vest.
Lets hope I never need to use it.




Heres what ChatGPT has to say, always good to tease out some additional detail

Outline: The Case for Motorcycle Airbag Vests

I. Introduction

• A. Overview of Motorcycle Safety Concerns
  • High vulnerability of motorcyclists compared to other road users.
  • Statistical data on motorcycle accidents and fatalities.
• B. Introduction to Motorcycle Airbag Vests
  • Brief description of motorcycle airbag vests.
  • Evolution and increasing adoption of airbag vests in motorcycle safety gear.

II. Functionality of Motorcycle Airbag Vests

• A. How Airbag Vests Work
  • Description of the triggering mechanism (mechanical tether vs. electronic sensors).
  • Deployment time and coverage areas (neck, chest, back, and spine).
• B. Types of Airbag Vests
  • Tethered vs. Electronic airbag vests.
  • Integrated airbag jackets vs. stand-alone vests.

III. Benefits of Motorcycle Airbag Vests

• A. Enhanced Protection
  • Coverage of critical areas such as the spine, neck, and chest.
  • Reduction of impact force during a crash.
  • Prevention of hyperextension and other injury types.
• B. Complement to Existing Gear
  • How airbag vests work in conjunction with helmets, gloves, and other protective gear.
  • Examples of situations where traditional gear is insufficient.
• C. Real-world Effectiveness
  • Case studies and testimonials from riders.
  • Statistics from regions with higher adoption rates (e.g., Europe, Japan).

IV. Addressing Common Concerns

• A. Cost Considerations
  • Price range of airbag vests and comparison with other safety gear.
  • Long-term cost-benefit analysis considering potential medical expenses.
• B. Comfort and Convenience
  • Design advancements improving fit and comfort.
  • Ease of use and maintenance.
• C. Reliability and Deployment Concerns
  • Discussion on deployment accuracy and potential false positives.
  • Battery life and maintenance for electronic vests.

V. Market Trends and Adoption

• A. Growing Market for Airbag Vests
  • Overview of the current market size and growth trajectory.
  • Key manufacturers and product innovations.
• B. Legal and Insurance Implications
  • The impact of airbag vests on insurance premiums.
  • Legal requirements or recommendations in various regions.

VI. Conclusion

• A. Summary of Key Points
  • Recap of the protective benefits and effectiveness of airbag vests.
• B. The Future of Motorcycle Safety
  • Potential advancements in airbag technology.

Encouragement for increased adoption among motorcyclists.

II. Impact on Accident Outcomes

• A. Reduction in Fatalities and Severe Injuries
  • France:
    • Statistic: Since the increase in airbag vest adoption, a reported 30% reduction in severe thoracic and spinal injuries among motorcyclists involved in accidents.
    • Specific Examples: Studies from French road safety agencies show a significant correlation between airbag vest usage and reduced fatality rates, especially in high-impact crashes.
  • Italy:
    • Statistic: A study by an Italian road safety institute found a 20% reduction in head, neck, and spine injuries in airbag vest users compared to non-users.
    • Real-World Examples: Italian riders in areas with high road traffic accident rates (e.g., urban areas) have shown a decrease in injury severity, attributed to increased airbag vest usage.
• B. Case Studies
  • Japan:
    • Statistic: A Tokyo-based study revealed that riders wearing airbag vests had a 50% higher survival rate in high-speed collisions compared to those without.
    • Government Reports: Japanese National Police Agency reports indicate a decrease in motorcycle-related fatalities, with airbag vests cited as a contributing factor in about 15% of cases.
    • Notable Incidents: Several high-profile accidents in Japan, where riders survived severe crashes due to airbag vests, have been widely reported in the media, further promoting their use.

Key Manufacturers and Product Innovations in Motorcycle Airbag Vests

I. Leading Manufacturers

• A. Alpinestars

  • Overview: An Italian company known for its high-performance motorsport gear, Alpinestars is a pioneer in electronic airbag technology.
  • Key Products:
    • Tech-Air® System: Alpinestars’ flagship electronic airbag system, integrated into a range of jackets and suits.
    • Tech-Air® 5: A standalone vest with electronic sensors that provides upper body protection, including the shoulders, chest, ribs, and back.
  • Innovations:
    • Multi-sensor technology: The Tech-Air® system uses multiple sensors (gyroscope, accelerometer) to detect crashes and deploy in milliseconds.
    • Modular System: The Tech-Air® system can be transferred between different Alpinestars jackets, offering versatility for different riding conditions.

• B. Dainese

  • Overview: Another Italian leader in motorcycle safety gear, Dainese is recognized for its advanced airbag technology, especially in racing.
  • Key Products:
    • D-air® System: Dainese’s proprietary airbag system, available in both racing suits and standalone vests.
    • Smart Jacket: A versatile electronic airbag vest that can be worn under or over any jacket, offering chest and back protection.
  • Innovations:
    • Racing Technology: The D-air® system was initially developed for MotoGP and has been adapted for road use, offering race-proven safety.
    • Wireless Activation: The D-air® system is entirely wireless, with sensors that autonomously detect and respond to accidents.

• C. Helite

  • Overview: A French company specializing in airbag protection across various fields, including motorcycling, Helite focuses on both tethered and electronic vests.
  • Key Products:
    • Turtle 2 Airbag Vest: A tethered airbag vest known for its simplicity, reliability, and large protective coverage area.
    • Helite e-Turtle: An electronic version of the Turtle vest, offering the same protection without the need for a tether.
  • Innovations:
    • Turtle Technology: The Turtle vest integrates a rigid back protector over the airbag, distributing impact force more effectively.
    • Hybrid Systems: Helite has developed both mechanical (tethered) and electronic systems, catering to different rider preferences and budgets.

• D. Hit-Air (Mugen Denko)

  • Overview: A Japanese company, Hit-Air is one of the original developers of airbag vests, focusing on tethered systems.
  • Key Products:
    • Hit-Air MLV: A popular tethered airbag vest known for its lightweight design and fast deployment.
    • Hit-Air JV: A more compact version designed for urban riders, offering essential protection in a less bulky form.
  • Innovations:
    • Speed of Deployment: Hit-Air vests are known for their rapid inflation time (within 0.25 seconds) upon activation.
    • Customizability: Hit-Air products often feature replaceable CO2 cartridges and modular components, making them easy to maintain.

II. Product Innovations

• A. Integration with Riding Gear

  • Modular Airbag Systems:
    • Companies like Alpinestars and Dainese offer airbag systems that can be integrated into various jackets and suits, allowing riders to upgrade their gear with advanced protection.
    • Example: Alpinestars’ Tech-Air® system can be transferred between compatible jackets, from touring to racing, providing consistent protection regardless of the riding style.
  • Smart Jackets:
    • Innovations like Dainese’s Smart Jacket incorporate airbag technology into a form that can be worn over regular clothing, making it accessible and convenient for everyday riders.

• B. Enhanced Sensor Technology

  • Multi-Directional Impact Detection:
    • Advanced electronic vests feature sophisticated algorithms and sensors that can detect impacts from multiple directions, ensuring the airbag deploys in a wide range of crash scenarios.
    • Example: Alpinestars Tech-Air® 5 vest uses six integrated sensors to monitor the rider’s movements, providing 360-degree protection.
  • Adaptive Deployment Algorithms:
    • Some systems are now equipped with machine learning algorithms that improve the accuracy of crash detection over time, reducing the likelihood of false deployments.

• C. Coverage and Protection Areas

• Extended Coverage Zones:
  • Modern airbag vests have evolved to protect more areas of the body, including the neck, shoulders, chest, back, and even the hips.
  • Example: Dainese’s D-air® system provides comprehensive coverage, including the collarbone and lower ribs, areas often vulnerable in crashes.
• Hybrid Airbag and Armor Systems:
• Combining traditional armor (like hard back protectors) with airbag technology provides a dual layer of protection, enhancing impact absorption and distribution.
• Example: Helite’s Turtle 2 vest incorporates a hard back protector over the airbag, acting like a helmet for the body.

Evaluation of the Helite e-Turtle 2 Airbag Vest

I. Overview

• Product Description: The Helite e-Turtle 2 is an electronic airbag vest designed to provide enhanced safety for motorcyclists. It is a successor to the original e-Turtle, incorporating advanced technology for better protection and user experience.
• Target Audience: The e-Turtle 2 is aimed at a wide range of riders, from daily commuters to touring enthusiasts, who seek an extra layer of protection beyond standard motorcycle gear.

II. Key Features

• A. Airbag Deployment Technology
  • Electronic Activation:
    • The vest is equipped with electronic sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) that monitor the rider’s movements and detect accidents in real time.
    • Deployment Speed: The airbag deploys within 0.08 seconds (80 milliseconds) after detecting a crash, providing rapid protection.
• B. Turtle Technology
  • Integrated Back Protector:
    • The e-Turtle 2 features a CE Level 2 back protector placed over the airbag, which enhances impact distribution and absorption. This design is similar to how a helmet protects the head, making it highly effective in protecting the spine and back.
• C. Coverage Areas
  • Protection Zones:
    • The vest offers protection for critical areas, including the spine, neck, chest, and abdomen. It also helps to prevent hyperextension of the neck and serious injuries to the thoracic and lumbar regions.
• D. Battery and Charging
  • Battery Life:
    • The e-Turtle 2 provides up to 25 hours of continuous riding on a single charge, suitable for long rides.
    • Charging: The vest is charged via a standard USB cable, making it convenient to recharge almost anywhere.
• E. Replaceable Air Cartridge
  • CO2 Cartridge:
    • After deployment, the airbag can be reset by replacing the CO2 cartridge, allowing the vest to be reused. This feature is simple and quick, ensuring minimal downtime.
• F. Comfort and Fit
  • Design and Materials:
    • The e-Turtle 2 is designed to be lightweight and breathable, with a comfortable fit that doesn’t restrict movement. It can be worn over any jacket or riding gear.
  • Adjustability: Adjustable straps allow for a customizable fit, accommodating different body shapes and sizes.

III. Strengths

• A. Enhanced Safety
  • Comprehensive Protection:
    • The e-Turtle 2 provides extensive coverage, protecting not only the spine and neck but also the chest and vital organs. The integrated back protector adds an extra layer of security, especially in high-impact scenarios.
• B. Reliability
  • Proven Technology:
    • Helite is a well-established brand known for its reliable airbag systems. The e-Turtle 2 builds on this reputation, offering a system that is both effective and dependable.
  • Low False Deployment Rate:
    • The electronic system is designed to minimize false positives, ensuring that the airbag only deploys in genuine crash situations.
• C. User-Friendliness
  • Ease of Use:
    • The vest is straightforward to use, with a simple charging process and an easily replaceable CO2 cartridge. Riders can quickly reset the vest after deployment, making it practical for everyday use.
  • Comfort:
    • The lightweight, breathable materials and adjustable fit make the e-Turtle 2 comfortable for long rides, without feeling cumbersome.

IV. Potential Drawbacks

• A. Cost
  • Price Point:
    • The e-Turtle 2 is relatively expensive compared to traditional protective gear and even some other airbag vests. The upfront cost may be a barrier for some riders.
• B. Bulkiness
  • Size and Fit:
    • Although designed to be as slim as possible, the addition of a back protector and the airbag system may still feel bulkier than non-airbag alternatives, especially for riders who prefer minimalistic gear.
• C. Battery Management
  • Battery Life Concerns:
    • While the battery life is generally sufficient, forgetting to charge the vest could leave riders without protection. Riders need to be diligent about maintaining the vest’s charge, especially on long trips.

V. Comparison with Competitors

• A. Alpinestars Tech-Air® 5
  • Comparison:
    • The Alpinestars Tech-Air® 5 offers more extensive coverage, including the shoulders, but lacks the integrated back protector found in the e-Turtle 2. Alpinestars’ system is also pricier but offers some additional features like smartphone connectivity.
• B. Dainese Smart Jacket
  • Comparison:
    • Dainese’s Smart Jacket is lighter and more compact, making it potentially more comfortable for some riders. However, it doesn’t offer the same level of spinal protection as the e-Turtle 2, particularly with the back protector integration.

VI. Conclusion

• Summary:
  • The Helite e-Turtle 2 is a robust and reliable airbag vest that offers significant protection for motorcyclists. Its combination of electronic activation, integrated back protector, and comprehensive coverage makes it a strong contender in the airbag vest market, particularly for riders prioritizing safety.
• Recommendation:
  • The e-Turtle 2 is ideal for riders who want maximum protection, especially those who frequently ride in high-risk situations (e.g., high speeds, heavy traffic). While the cost may be higher, the level of protection and peace of mind provided by the vest justifies the investment for serious riders.