23/06/2010
Would you recommend this product to a friend? : Yes
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Nickname : Online Shopper
Title : By Paul Hood on June 15, 2009 10:49 AM in Bikes. Mirror.com.uk
Detailed Review : Choosing leathers is an important business. There are a lot of things to consider and weigh up. Three months ago, I went through the process of choosing the best 1-piece suit I could buy for my budget of $1200. I plumped for the Ixon Galactica 3,000 road miles and two track days later, I''m delighted (and relieved) to report that my choice is turning out to be a gem. If you''re thinking about investing in a new set of leathers, read on ... Priority number one when choosing a leather suit is that it offers a first-class level of crash protection. In the event of a tumble, whichever suit you choose must offer both good impact protection and excellent abrasion resistance. Secondly, for me, comfort. I frequently spent up to 2 hours in the saddle, and do the odd track day, so I want to be comfortable on long stints, but also able to move around on the bike on the track. Thirdly, and l''ll be honest about this consideration, I want leathers that give me a fighting chance of looking at least a little bit cool... Important stuff. The Ixon Galactica ended up being the suit that ticked all three boxes best, and it came in just under my $1200 budget. Protection:: This is the important one, so I started with some field research. Endurance racing is the place where racing is at its most arduous and demands are highest on rider, machine and leathers. Crashes are frequent and almost expected, and riders need to be able to pick themselves up and, literally, get straight back in the saddle. I''m struck by the number of endurance riders that choose Ixon leathers. If it''s good enough for endurance racers, chances are it''s a good all-round choice. For crash protection, for comfort, and for longevity. And looking at the spec of the Ixon Galactica - it is indeed, top class. It uses 1.4mm Brazilian hide throughout, triple stitched, with a very high level of impact protection built in around the shoulders, back, elbows, forearms and knee/shin area. Flexibility and comfort on the bike :: Comfort is another important consideration. Fit will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer so there''s nothing for it but to try the suit on and make do a few silly movements to make sure it fits well before parting with a big wad of cash. If you''re not sure which silly movements to do, check out the video below: I''ve done them for you... Finally....looking stylish :: Style, they say, is something that can''t be bought. My work colleagues, my wife and most of my friends still smirk quietly whenever I turn up fully suited in leather. Even my 3 year old daughter points and laughs. The challenge for me is one of not looking foolish. This Ixon Galactica suit does an admirable job of helping me to achieve this. It fits well off the peg, it is subtley styled and (to me at least) looks great. Full marks all round.