Equipment & safety in motorcycle racing - everything that protects riders
Motorcycle racing is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating and at the same time most dangerous disciplines in motorsport. It often comes down to fractions of a second and millimeters when it comes to success or defeat. The speeds are high and the gaps are small. Even a small mistake can have serious consequences. This makes it all the more important to have the right equipment - in an emergency, it can make the difference between a rider's health and even their life.
While the spectators enthusiastically admire spectacular overtaking maneuvers at high speeds, drivers, trainers and technicians know that safety is the basic prerequisite for high performance on the racetrack. Anyone who drives at the limits on the racetrack must be able to rely not only on their skills, but also on their protection system.
In this article, you will learn all about the essential protective equipment in motorcycle racing and why no compromises can be made in terms of quality and fit.
The racing suit - the rider's second skin
The racing suit is the central element of your protective equipment. It is usually made of high-quality cowhide or kangaroo leather. Although the material is flexible, it offers high abrasion resistance. Particularly high-quality suits have additional protective layers made of Kevlar or titanium in areas at risk of falling, such as the hips, elbows, knees and shoulders.
In contrast to two-piece suits, one-piece leather suits have no weak points at the waist (zipper connection between jacket and trousers). This is why they have become the standard in racing. They also have double-stitched seams. Modern airbag systems are triggered within milliseconds in the event of a fall and protect sensitive areas of the body such as the neck, back, chest and collarbone.
Tip: The suit should fit snugly without being restrictive. It is advisable to have an individual fitting before buying, especially if an integrated airbag system is included.
The lifesaver for the head - the helmet
The helmet is undoubtedly the most important piece of equipment. Only full-face helmets are used in racing. They completely enclose the face and head. they are usually made of composite materials such as carbon, fiberglass and Kevlar. These materials are lightweight, extremely robust and offer very good impact protection.
A good racing helmet fulfills the FIM homologation (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme). This means that it meets the strictest safety requirements that apply to professional racing. It has an emergency cheek pad system, an aerodynamically optimized shape and optimum ventilation. The anti-fog visor ensures good visibility even in difficult conditions.
Look out for when buying:
- FIM or ECE certification
- Low weight (under 1,500 g ideal)
- Fit without pressure points
- Double-D or quick-release fastener
Back protector and airbag systems
A back protector protects the spine from serious injuries and is therefore mandatory on the race track. It is either worn as a separate element under the leather suit or is part of an airbag system. Modern airbag vests and systems detect movement patterns in real time and can therefore be triggered at lightning speed in the event of an accident.
Combined systems offer the best possible protection: they not only protect the spine, but also the chest, neck and even the hips. More and more racing series are now making airbag systems mandatory.
Advantages of airbag systems:
- Protection of larger body areas
- Reaction time less than 0.05 seconds
- Reusable after replacing the cartridge
Gloves - control and protection combined
Motorcycle gloves have to meet several requirements in racing. In the event of a crash, they must protect the hands from abrasion. At the same time, they must maintain the mobility of the fingers and also ensure sensitive operation of the throttle, brake and clutch.
This part of the protective equipment is made of leather. Protectors are attached to the knuckles, fingers and palms. As the edges of the hands usually touch the ground first in the event of a fall, they are additionally reinforced. Double seams and abrasion-resistant materials are an absolute must.
Important: Motorcycle gloves must fit perfectly. They should have a good grip in the palm area and must not slip.
Safety for feet and ankles: racing boots
Like the hands, the feet, ankles and lower legs also need sufficient protection against serious injuries. They are made of abrasion-resistant leather and have metal, plastic or carbon reinforcements in the shin, ankle, heel and toe areas.
Some boots are fitted with replaceable abrasive pads on the outside. They not only provide protection, they also help to position the motorcycle safely on bends. If the boot has what is known as torsion control, it prevents the foot from twisting in the event of a fall.
Underwear and co.
They may seem unimportant at first glance, but they make a significant contribution to a comfortable fit. They make it easier to put on and take off your racing suit, wick away moisture and prevent pressure points.
Special fireproof underwear, which is used in MotoGP or endurance races, for example, offers additional protection in the event of a crash with frictional heat.
Communication & technology: headsets and telemetry
Communication plays an important role in professional racing. Many of the drivers are connected to the pits via radio. However, this is not permitted in all racing series. Telemetry systems and sensors are increasingly being integrated into the equipment. They allow data such as tilt angle, brake pressure or speed to be recorded in real time.
These systems not only help with analysis, they also support safety: in the event of a serious crash, they can automatically make emergency calls or trigger airbags.
Conclusion: Safety starts with the equipment
Motorcycle racing will always be associated with high risks. However, with the right equipment and training, the danger can be minimized considerably. Modern technology, high-quality materials and strict standards are currently making the sport safer than ever. However, it is crucial that the equipment is regularly professionally checked, maintained and serviced and, if in doubt, replaced. After all, it is the only thing between you and the asphalt.