I'm looking for some more info about these braces and maybe some FHE. They seem like a good thing, but I just don't know much about them other than what I've read or heard.
(http://www.leatt-brace.com/thumbs/ad_pic-brace_gpxsport3.jpg)
Does Leatt or anyone else make a road racing version? Anyone have one? If so gimme the lowdown if ya please. A search turned up one thread from last year where a coupla people said they used them. Are they more common now? Waddya think of 'em?
Anyone?
I have the carbon BMW version but they're practically identical. I used it twice last summer for track days and found if very comfortable and didn't interfere with my neck movement at all. The BMW one has a considerable amount of adjustment in its width and around-the-neck circumference. I took my time setting it up to 1 specific jacket that I use at the track and, after it was set up, I haven't had to touch the adjustments at all.
It *may* restrict the amount you can tilt your head from one side to the other depending on how low your helmet sits in relation to your shoulders. However I don't recall my helmet ever touching the brace.
If you're looking for security at the track it may be what you're looking for. I bought mine after meeting a fellow Ducati owner last summer who always rides with his, street or track. He'd just ridden from Ontario to Nova Scotia wearing it and raved about how much more secure he felt wearing his. I'd have to agree with him, though I haven't worn mine much on the street.
It's been 7 months since I last wore mine at the track in September but I'll try to answer any questions you have about it as best I can.
:)
One of the guy i dirt ride wears one when dirt riding or street (on a bmw 800gs). Coincidentally he got it after jammen bin'd it. Says its comfortable and doesn't notice its on until he tries to look up. Ive heard of fitment issued with roost guards, and some trimming of roost guards to make fit. So this probably go's without saying but bring all your gear you plan to wear and try it out. Id imagine your helmet is going to hit in a full race tuck, but thats just speculation. I think the more $$$$$ the more adjustments. Very common in the dirt riding scene. Id send them an email and see which one they recommend for roadrace type application. Maybe they will have one specific for that.
I plan to get one as part of next years gear purchases.
I work for a fire dept. with about 350+ members, The majority of the dept. are young ( under 27) with high testosterone and lots of money to buy lots of toys. In the past three years, three members crashed and broke their necks while riding dirt bikes. Another two had recently crashed while riding off-road and received major injuries. All have made full recoveries.
I'm not aware of what the stats are for riders that fracture their necks in crashes, but looking at this group, and the amount of injuries they received, I am seriously considering buying one. I don't want to be the one who crashes next, and becomes paralyzed, even though I only ride street.
What I noticed about the different neck braces is that the lower priced models are heavier ( but still safe) and have less adjustability for fit and comfort. of course the exact opposite for the pricier models.