> I just recently bought an Aerostitch Roadcrafter two-piece suit, > but haven't yet bought a back protector for it. Anyone on the > list have a 'Stitch and have any experience with the Aerostitch > brand protector vs. other brands (such as Bohn)? Motorcycle > Consumer News reviewed the Bohn back protector that velcros into > the Roadcrafter, and they felt it was more protective and maybe a > little more comfortable, though it blocked ventilation more than > the stock piece. I've heard the Aerostitch version is maybe a > little tall and can intrude on helmet space. Any opinions?
I've been wearing Aerostich protective clothing for the last 15 years or so. I'm on my 2nd Roadcrafter, but a 1 piece, instead--Hi Viz Lime Yellow. I also have the Bohn back protector. Originally I ordered the one for a tall person (being 6'2"), but I'm all leg (35" inseam) and so I sent the "tall" one back in favor of a "regular" one. You can change the "placement" of the Bohn by where it is velcroed into the suit, and probably the Aerostich one as well, but I have no experience with it. For example, if I put it in so that it all of the Velcro patches are perfectly aligned, then it won't allow me to move my head in an up / down arc very much--not enough to see down the road. However, I found that by dropping the Bohn down in the suit about 2 inches, I have freedom of movement for my head and the protective pads still seem to be in the correct place. After wearing it like that for a season (I put it in about a year ago), I cut off the elastic straps before I re-installed it this winter (after washing the suit). If memory serves, the Bohn unit seems to be longer than the Aerostich unit and provide more coverage. Whether it is hotter or not, I cannot tell, as I have only used the Bohn. It definitely cuts down on the ventilation, but that is something I'm willing to sacrifice for the degree (no pun intended) of protection provided! Regards, Henry S. Winokur 94 GTS1000, AMA, MRF, Nationally Certified Riding Instructor Columbia, MD Ride for Kids Task Force West Bethesda, MD USA
