Track suit - need advice

Nny · May 5th, 2011, 05:28 AM

From the looks of things, I should be able to get my first track day in this year and I am trying to get my suit shopping done this week. So I have it narrowed down to the alpinestars MX1 and the Scorpion hurricane. Leaning a bit more towards the A*’s since they will essentially be the same price (scorpion will need a separate back protector purchase where the A*’s has a back protector already integrated). With that in mind, I have a sizing question…

My measurements are:
Height: 5’ 9”
Weight: 180
Chest: 41.5 (42.5 breathing in)
Waist: 36.5 or 37 depends on what part of my gut we are measuring here…
Hips: 37 at the belt, 41 at my bubble butt

So, with that in mind I am looking at a USA suit size 44 for the A*’s and a USA suit size 42 for the scorpion. I really don’t know how much to factor in for the back protector if I decide on the scorpion.
Size chart for the A*:
http://www.alpinestars.com/sizing/
Size chart for the scorpion:
http://www.revzilla.com/size-charts-...uit-size-chart
What do you guys think? Size? Quality? Brand?
Thanks.

CC Cowboy · May 5th, 2011, 06:07 AM

Which bike are you taking to the track?

How often do you plan on doing track days? You can rent a suit at many tracks.

Nny · May 5th, 2011, 06:21 AM

Actually not 100% sure if I am taking the 250 or the 650 yet.
This year, I am at least going once or twice. If cash is good after the initial set up cost, I am hoping for it to be alot more.
The closest track is 165 miles away with the rental shop being an additional 60 miles out. Honestly, I have been juggling which is more cost effective. Gas + deposits (what they keep in event of a crash) + a place to stay for the night so I can return the suit the next morning + the extra day or two holding on to the suit - Verse just owning a suit.

I know this is something I will want to do as often as I can, but would be nice to try something on first. If I want to try something on first though, it will be a full day of driving to the closest shop.

On top of not being the make and model I am looking for.

Edit: the two closet tracks do not have rentals there. Both tracks redirect to an offsite location.

Nny · May 5th, 2011, 07:09 AM

Scratch that, the next closest track DOES do rentals. This track (New Jersey Motor Speedway) is about 280 miles away though.

CC Cowboy · May 5th, 2011, 07:53 AM

Which track in 160 miles away? Loudon? If you are planning to do the Loudon track you might want to do the Penguin school there. They rent leathers and boots also. There is a member on here that is going to a track day in June at Loudon. For the proper amount of money I could tell you who it is, then for the proper amout of money he might tell you if you can join him and the hooligans he is going with.

sowega · May 5th, 2011, 08:18 AM

Go try on everything you can; a Dainese 52(42US) is vastly different from an Alpinestars 52(42US) or Kobe/Scorpion/etc. 42.

Get some help from the shop staff if you have fit questions.

Nny · May 5th, 2011, 08:33 AM

OOPS! Forgot to mention that I will be having to purchase either of these suits online since there are no shops that carry suits anywhere remotely near me. There are a few that can order but if it doesn't fit I will be paying a restocking fee - which is more expensive than shipping a suit back to the physical address of the website.

...however...
I looked into Penguin racing school for Loudon before and was a tad confused on the difference between a track day and racing practice... and the license.. May just have to look into it a bit more. Might be the better option for this year.

Nny · May 5th, 2011, 08:37 AM

On a side note here. I have been looking at teampromotion and tonys trackdays for my area.

CC Cowboy · May 5th, 2011, 09:04 AM

The difference between the Penguin school and a trackday is the level of instruction. A track day is more about having fun and staying safe. The Penguin school is about having fun and going fast safely.

Nny · May 5th, 2011, 11:12 AM

Thanks for the info

I think penguin school and rentals (for at least the first day anyway) will be the direction I am headed.
If it is the June session I will be attending, then I will gladly pay you monopoly money for the info.

Rexbo · May 5th, 2011, 09:51 PM

http://www.pilotleathers.com/

Take measurements, send them in, pay money, get awesome leathers. I've seen these in person and the quality is up there with the best of the big brands for sure. Its the same price if you get a nice dainese or alpinestars suit, only its custom tailored to YOU. Not the cheapest... but if you're not the cookiecutter body type, its worth it.

jstrain · May 6th, 2011, 05:42 AM

Someone else mentioned boots. Don't forget about them if you don't currently have a good pair. I'm guessing they won't let you ride if you don't have an acceptable set.

Can't remember the model, but I have a 2 piece A* suit that cost $500ish. Held up well in a track getoff. I'm sure the 1 piece is more track oriented, but with the 2 piece (full 360 degree zipper), it's pretty convenient for a nice Saturday ride as well so I get more use out of it than just track riding.

No complaints with my A*s. No matter what you buy, they'll feel tight at first. Wear it around the house for awhile and on the bike before the track day and it'll break in and get more comfy.

Boosted139 · May 6th, 2011, 06:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rexbo

http://www.pilotleathers.com/

Take measurements, send them in, pay money, get awesome leathers. I've seen these in person and the quality is up there with the best of the big brands for sure. Its the same price if you get a nice dainese or alpinestars suit, only its custom tailored to YOU. Not the cheapest... but if you're not the cookiecutter body type, its worth it.

+1. Love my pilot suit!

Nny · May 6th, 2011, 07:06 AM

Pilot leathers look great! A little bit more for an exact fit may be worth the extra cash.
I have very good street boots and full gloves but would like to get something better suited for the track. Besides, I do have some b-day/ xmas gift cards to go through at a local shop

I am thinking rent a suit this year when I go to Penguin school racing and buy a suit during the winter. Besides, what better excuse to stay in shape during the winter than having a track suit to fit into the following summer.

Thanks for all the great suggestions guys, I really appreciate it.

rceezy · May 6th, 2011, 08:14 AM

I bought a custom suit from Spartan Leathers. Absolutely amazing work. I have pics in my album on my profile page.

blubyu · May 8th, 2011, 05:35 PM

And I am VERY disappointed that there is only one pic of you in your leathers in your gallery

phr3ek · May 8th, 2011, 05:43 PM

revzilla.com has free size exchanges

you generally want to go up one size if you want a stand alone back protector to fit

i personally cant go up one size because of my short measurements
i would have to lose weight to get a back protector to squeeze in

rceezy · May 9th, 2011, 11:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by blubyu

And I am VERY disappointed that there is only one pic of you in your leathers in your gallery

I'll post more when I get home tonight!

Moldbuster · May 15th, 2011, 10:00 PM

http://motoport.com/_product_35442/G...ng_Kevlar_Suit

Motoport GP-1 Kevlar suit. I replaced A*s leathers with one...no comparison. Actually has higher abrasion and tear resistance than comp grade leather. If you wreck in it, send it in...if they can't repair it, you will get a new one for free...forever. Won't degrade with time. Much lighter, much cooler, custom built to size, alterable and...washable!

CC Cowboy · May 16th, 2011, 06:50 AM

Where are they located? I would want to see one in person (the picture doesn't show well). The material might be strong but the suit looks like it is lacking in protection.

Are there any professional racers using these suits?

LoneRonin · May 16th, 2011, 07:25 AM

are you allowed to wear a two piece at your track given that they connect using the zipper that goes all the way around? It might be more convenient because then you can just wear the jacket separately when out on short a ride and get some more use out of it

Moldbuster · May 16th, 2011, 06:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CC Cowboy

Where are they located? I would want to see one in person (the picture doesn't show well). The material might be strong but the suit looks like it is lacking in protection.

Are there any professional racers using these suits?

They are in California...San Marcos. And not only does it have protection, it has THE most complete impact protection coverage of any suit I've ever worn. Read up on their Quad Armor option...damned impressive stuff.

Not sure of any specific big names using them...that is usually accompanied by big advertising contracts and I don't think they play the game. I do know they are FIM sanctioned and I believe the website says something about placing third in the championships, but no name is given. Every dealing I've had with them has been very positive and that seems to be the case with others I've talked to. Plenty of track day guys use them and guys who wear them won't wear anything else...myself included. If I had to choose one suit in the world to go down in at 150 MPH...it would be the Motoport. I also have their Kevlar touring suit as well when I just want to slip something on over my clothes.

Give them a call and talk to Wayne...he is about as knowledgable as it gets. 800-777-6489

May 5th, 2011, 05:28 AM	#1
Nny ninjette.org member Name: Zach Location: Upstate NY Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): Yamaha R6 (street), GSXR 750 (track) and a Harley FXDB Posts: 140	Track suit - need advice From the looks of things, I should be able to get my first track day in this year and I am trying to get my suit shopping done this week. So I have it narrowed down to the alpinestars MX1 and the Scorpion hurricane. Leaning a bit more towards the A’s since they will essentially be the same price (scorpion will need a separate back protector purchase where the A’s has a back protector already integrated). With that in mind, I have a sizing question… My measurements are: Height: 5’ 9” Weight: 180 Chest: 41.5 (42.5 breathing in) Waist: 36.5 or 37 depends on what part of my gut we are measuring here… Hips: 37 at the belt, 41 at my bubble butt So, with that in mind I am looking at a USA suit size 44 for the A’s and a USA suit size 42 for the scorpion. I really don’t know how much to factor in for the back protector if I decide on the scorpion. Size chart for the A: http://www.alpinestars.com/sizing/ Size chart for the scorpion: http://www.revzilla.com/size-charts-...uit-size-chart What do you guys think? Size? Quality? Brand? Thanks. __________________________________________________ Previous rides: Ninja 650, Ninja 250, Goldwing and a Nightster

May 5th, 2011, 06:07 AM	#2
CC Cowboy ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Whodat Location: Ware Is.,MA Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): I pass the wind! Posts: A lot. MOTM - Mar '13, Jun '14	Which bike are you taking to the track? How often do you plan on doing track days? You can rent a suit at many tracks. __________________________________________________ If everything seems under control; you're just not going fast enough! Last futzed with by CC Cowboy; May 5th, 2011 at 09:00 AM.

May 5th, 2011, 06:21 AM	#3
Nny ninjette.org member Name: Zach Location: Upstate NY Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): Yamaha R6 (street), GSXR 750 (track) and a Harley FXDB Posts: 140	Actually not 100% sure if I am taking the 250 or the 650 yet. This year, I am at least going once or twice. If cash is good after the initial set up cost, I am hoping for it to be alot more. The closest track is 165 miles away with the rental shop being an additional 60 miles out. Honestly, I have been juggling which is more cost effective. Gas + deposits (what they keep in event of a crash) + a place to stay for the night so I can return the suit the next morning + the extra day or two holding on to the suit - Verse just owning a suit. I know this is something I will want to do as often as I can, but would be nice to try something on first. If I want to try something on first though, it will be a full day of driving to the closest shop. On top of not being the make and model I am looking for. Edit: the two closet tracks do not have rentals there. Both tracks redirect to an offsite location. __________________________________________________ Previous rides: Ninja 650, Ninja 250, Goldwing and a Nightster

May 5th, 2011, 07:09 AM	#4
Nny ninjette.org member Name: Zach Location: Upstate NY Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): Yamaha R6 (street), GSXR 750 (track) and a Harley FXDB Posts: 140	Scratch that, the next closest track DOES do rentals. This track (New Jersey Motor Speedway) is about 280 miles away though. __________________________________________________ Previous rides: Ninja 650, Ninja 250, Goldwing and a Nightster

May 5th, 2011, 07:53 AM	#5
CC Cowboy ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Whodat Location: Ware Is.,MA Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): I pass the wind! Posts: A lot. MOTM - Mar '13, Jun '14	Which track in 160 miles away? Loudon? If you are planning to do the Loudon track you might want to do the Penguin school there. They rent leathers and boots also. There is a member on here that is going to a track day in June at Loudon. For the proper amount of money I could tell you who it is, then for the proper amout of money he might tell you if you can join him and the hooligans he is going with. __________________________________________________ If everything seems under control; you're just not going fast enough!

May 5th, 2011, 08:18 AM	#6
sowega ninjette.org guru Name: Ed Location: Atlanta, GA Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 899, 748, 250, 250, 70 Posts: 348	Go try on everything you can; a Dainese 52(42US) is vastly different from an Alpinestars 52(42US) or Kobe/Scorpion/etc. 42. Get some help from the shop staff if you have fit questions.

May 5th, 2011, 08:33 AM	#7
Nny ninjette.org member Name: Zach Location: Upstate NY Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): Yamaha R6 (street), GSXR 750 (track) and a Harley FXDB Posts: 140	OOPS! Forgot to mention that I will be having to purchase either of these suits online since there are no shops that carry suits anywhere remotely near me. There are a few that can order but if it doesn't fit I will be paying a restocking fee - which is more expensive than shipping a suit back to the physical address of the website. ...however... I looked into Penguin racing school for Loudon before and was a tad confused on the difference between a track day and racing practice... and the license.. May just have to look into it a bit more. Might be the better option for this year. __________________________________________________ Previous rides: Ninja 650, Ninja 250, Goldwing and a Nightster

May 5th, 2011, 08:37 AM	#8
Nny ninjette.org member Name: Zach Location: Upstate NY Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): Yamaha R6 (street), GSXR 750 (track) and a Harley FXDB Posts: 140	On a side note here. I have been looking at teampromotion and tonys trackdays for my area. __________________________________________________ Previous rides: Ninja 650, Ninja 250, Goldwing and a Nightster

May 5th, 2011, 09:04 AM	#9
CC Cowboy ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Whodat Location: Ware Is.,MA Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): I pass the wind! Posts: A lot. MOTM - Mar '13, Jun '14	The difference between the Penguin school and a trackday is the level of instruction. A track day is more about having fun and staying safe. The Penguin school is about having fun and going fast safely. __________________________________________________ If everything seems under control; you're just not going fast enough!

May 5th, 2011, 11:12 AM	#10
Nny ninjette.org member Name: Zach Location: Upstate NY Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): Yamaha R6 (street), GSXR 750 (track) and a Harley FXDB Posts: 140	Thanks for the info I think penguin school and rentals (for at least the first day anyway) will be the direction I am headed. If it is the June session I will be attending, then I will gladly pay you monopoly money for the info. __________________________________________________ Previous rides: Ninja 650, Ninja 250, Goldwing and a Nightster

May 5th, 2011, 09:51 PM	#11
Rexbo CVMA / AFM / M1GP #250 Name: Steve Location: Los Angeles Join Date: Sep 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250r, 2011 Zero S, 2009 KLR 650 Posts: A lot.	http://www.pilotleathers.com/ Take measurements, send them in, pay money, get awesome leathers. I've seen these in person and the quality is up there with the best of the big brands for sure. Its the same price if you get a nice dainese or alpinestars suit, only its custom tailored to YOU. Not the cheapest... but if you're not the cookiecutter body type, its worth it.

May 6th, 2011, 05:42 AM	#12
jstrain ninjette.org guru Name: Jeremy Location: Philadelphia Join Date: Feb 2011 Motorcycle(s): '04 Aprilia RSV, '10 Bonneville, '10 Ninjette Posts: 359	Someone else mentioned boots. Don't forget about them if you don't currently have a good pair. I'm guessing they won't let you ride if you don't have an acceptable set. Can't remember the model, but I have a 2 piece A* suit that cost $500ish. Held up well in a track getoff. I'm sure the 1 piece is more track oriented, but with the 2 piece (full 360 degree zipper), it's pretty convenient for a nice Saturday ride as well so I get more use out of it than just track riding. No complaints with my A*s. No matter what you buy, they'll feel tight at first. Wear it around the house for awhile and on the bike before the track day and it'll break in and get more comfy. __________________________________________________ -Jeremy

May 6th, 2011, 07:06 AM	#14
Nny ninjette.org member Name: Zach Location: Upstate NY Join Date: Jun 2009 Motorcycle(s): Yamaha R6 (street), GSXR 750 (track) and a Harley FXDB Posts: 140	Pilot leathers look great! A little bit more for an exact fit may be worth the extra cash. I have very good street boots and full gloves but would like to get something better suited for the track. Besides, I do have some b-day/ xmas gift cards to go through at a local shop I am thinking rent a suit this year when I go to Penguin school racing and buy a suit during the winter. Besides, what better excuse to stay in shape during the winter than having a track suit to fit into the following summer. Thanks for all the great suggestions guys, I really appreciate it. __________________________________________________ Previous rides: Ninja 650, Ninja 250, Goldwing and a Nightster

May 6th, 2011, 08:14 AM	#15
rceezy Lean Me Name: RC Location: America Join Date: Mar 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250 Posts: 678 Blog Entries: 4	I bought a custom suit from Spartan Leathers. Absolutely amazing work. I have pics in my album on my profile page.

May 8th, 2011, 05:35 PM	#16
blubyu ninjette.org member Name: Todd Location: Olympia, WA Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R / 2009 CBR600RR Posts: 51	And I am VERY disappointed that there is only one pic of you in your leathers in your gallery __________________________________________________ Scorpion EXO-1000 - Scorpion Hat Trick Jacket - Scorpion Magnum Gloves - TourMaster Caliper Pants - AlpineStars Octane Riding Shoes

May 8th, 2011, 05:43 PM	#17
phr3ek meow? Name: kevin Location: I.E. SoCal Join Date: Feb 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2004 636 Posts: 587	revzilla.com has free size exchanges you generally want to go up one size if you want a stand alone back protector to fit i personally cant go up one size because of my short measurements i would have to lose weight to get a back protector to squeeze in

May 15th, 2011, 10:00 PM	#19
Moldbuster ninjette.org member Name: Kevin Location: Bellingham, WA in the Nice COOL Pacific Northwest Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250R Limited Ed Posts: 103	http://motoport.com/_product_35442/G...ng_Kevlar_Suit Motoport GP-1 Kevlar suit. I replaced A*s leathers with one...no comparison. Actually has higher abrasion and tear resistance than comp grade leather. If you wreck in it, send it in...if they can't repair it, you will get a new one for free...forever. Won't degrade with time. Much lighter, much cooler, custom built to size, alterable and...washable!

May 16th, 2011, 06:50 AM	#20
CC Cowboy ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Whodat Location: Ware Is.,MA Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): I pass the wind! Posts: A lot. MOTM - Mar '13, Jun '14	Where are they located? I would want to see one in person (the picture doesn't show well). The material might be strong but the suit looks like it is lacking in protection. Are there any professional racers using these suits? __________________________________________________ If everything seems under control; you're just not going fast enough!

May 16th, 2011, 07:25 AM	#21
LoneRonin ninjette.org sage Name: Jason Location: Mississauga Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250r Posts: 634	are you allowed to wear a two piece at your track given that they connect using the zipper that goes all the way around? It might be more convenient because then you can just wear the jacket separately when out on short a ride and get some more use out of it

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