Behind the tech: Airbags
Motorcycle Sport & Leisure|December 2022
Technology in the world of two wheels is ever-changing. Take rider protection for instance: who saw airbag technology coming a few years ago?
Behind the tech: Airbags

It doesn't seem that long ago when airbags weren't even something you'd see in a car. Now they're inside motorcycle jackets and vests. And people are getting into the new technology.

Since we featured motorcycle airbags in the September issue, we have had quite a few questions about them from MSL readers. So, we put the questions to Aharon Southern, customer service manager at Nevis Marketing. He has daily hands-on experience of the Dainese airbag system, which makes him a bit of an all-round airbag oracle, so he's well placed to answer your questions...

Q: Why would I wear an airbag in the first place? Aren't they just for racers?

A: A certified airbag system can offer a higher and greater area of protection than conventional armour fitted into a jacket. Just like armour has moved on greatly in recent years, so has the accessibility to even greater protection - this is another evolution. Dainese offers different garments with the D-air system incorporated, so there's a solution that suits everyone - from commuters to track riders.

Q: There are quite a few airbags on the market - how does the Dainese one differ?

A: All our airbag systems have patented technology fitted. One example of this technology is the 'Microfilament', which allows us to keep the thickness and pressure constant across the entire area preventing the balloon effect. 

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