Advice & Guides If it feels like armour in your bike kit then the law demands it is actually proper, protective armour. Here's how to tell how effective your impact protection is...
Owned the previous version for last 5 years and always wear it. The new version has better ventilation and a slimmer profile, not hugely different in terms of function but definitely an improvement. This version, you can actually turn off when you aren’t using it, and once on, It fits more closely, so you don’t notice it, as much (not that the first gen was bad) . Software app is same as previous version, although you can now pick from 3 uses not 2 like before. Expensive but it’s the best technology out there, as we see every weekend on MotoGP. Having sadly seen the effect chest impacts can have first hand, I think Its worth the 700.
Very comfortable and lightweight. Upgraded from my previous Tech Air5 which went off after I accidentally fell off my stationary bike and rather than having to spend a few hundred quid sending it away getting it regassed/serviced, and being without a airvest for a few weeks decided to go for the Plasma version which has a user replacable canister. I went 2 sizes up for a super comfy fit.
I’ve used a wearable airbag for years, but my previous one had to be worn over my jacket. It was so heavy and cumbersome that I often left it at home, which defeated the purpose and left me unprotected on the road. The Plasma 5 has changed that. I never ride without it now because it fits so comfortably underneath my jacket. A single charge easily lasts 2 to 3 weeks, though I’d recommend topping it up once it hits 25%. Even with the back protector, it’s low-profile enough that I don't feel bulky when I'm off the bike grabbing a coffee."
I personally believe is the most comfortable and give the advantages regarding recharging
Excellent vest though had to go up a size. Very comfortable and much lighter than previous models.
It’s never deployed and I hope it never has to. Super comfy, can’t tell I’m wearing it. Easy to get on and off, even looks good albeit you rarely see it.
The battery lasts longer than Alpinestars say. I charge mine once every two weeks and ride for roughly 40 mins a day, so just over 9 hours of just on a full charge.
Pricey but fantastic piece of mind and far easier than having a full length back protector as it has one built in addition to the airbag function.
As we all know, getting the right size when ordering anything online is tricky and I had to have 2 goes at this, but it was well worth it. As others have said, the vest is very light and ticks every single box on my list. You can feel the pack is on your back, but that's it. My most expensive purchase that I hope I'll never have to use!
It may not be the best for protection, but it’s a practical compromise worth having if you value comfort on the bike and additional safety. I replaced my Helite2 as I found it heavy, cumbersome and uncomfortable in the summer. Contrary to sizing advice I found I had to size up and not down as many others suggest. Great customer service/delivery from SBS
Very pleased with this Tech-Air 5 Plasma, it is much lighter than my older Tech Air 5 and very comfortable and unobtrusive to wear.
I never ride without it.
Haven't tried it in hot weather yet but I'm expecting it to be cooler that the previous model.
There's not much wrong with the older version but I fancied an upgrade as I cover a lot of miles on my bike in variable weather conditions.
Very easy to set up and charge.
Hopefully it will never be needed but it provides reassurance,
Settled on the first plasma after finding the older tech air 5 too tight across the chest and under arms.
The plasma fits perfectly due to the stretchy material it’s made from. It stood out due to the extra protection around the ribs, shoulders and chest. Although the chest protection isn’t rated for some reason but better than having nothing which is what’s in my jackets now.
It’s very low profile and fits under every jacket I own.
Expensive but no subscription cost and has the riding modes I need.
My first air jacket, I do both do road and adventure off riding, this fits both requirements. Latest product. Well made. It s a snug it so still getting use to it, see how it is in hot weather. It s does mean another lay but I want the best protection I can get. Even it helps me in a minor off, then it worth the money.
I sold my MAB V4 and bought the Tech Air 5 Plasma because I kept forgetting to tether the V4. So the Plasma is stretchy and very forgiving size wise, obviously this is a garment you don't want to use in anger and so I cannot give any opinion on how good it is in the event of an "off". I charged it up for a couple of hours and downloaded the app to my phone and updated the firmware, all of which was very easy.
| XS | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL | 4XL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UK CHEST | 38 | 40 | 42 | 44 | 46 | 48 | 50 | 52 |
| EURO SIZE | 48 | 50 | 52 | 54 | 56 | 58 | 60 | 62 |
The replacement air canister can be found on our Quick find: 2553327, if you put this number into our search bar this will lead you to them.
Find it cheaper at any major motorcycle accessory retailer, online or in-store and we‘ll match it.
How to request a price match.