First Thoughts After Wearing My Tech-Air MX

After my first ride, I’m very impressed with the Tech-Air MX. It’s definitely heavier than any chest protector I’ve worn in the past, but the weight is very evenly balanced. As soon as I got on the track, I forgot I was wearing anything other than a normal chest protector.

I found the app setup process for the Tech-Air MX to be easy. I opted for MX Race Mode, which is the least sensitive option. I had a low speed lowside crash in a corner*, and the Tech-Air MX didn’t deploy. I was worried about slow speed deployments because a $115 canister makes it hard to justify a deployment when my old chest protector would have handled the crash. Based on feedback I’ve seen from other riders, I think the tip over I had would have triggered a deployment in the standard MX Mode.

I rode with the Tech-Air MX in about 90 degree weather with very high humidity. I was able to do five laps without feeling any extra fatigue, although I needed to take the Tech-Air MX off between motos to cool down once I came back to the pits. I wore the Tech-Air MX on the outside of my jersey because I felt like it trapped less heat than wearing it underneath. When you wear the Tech-Air MX outside the jersey, it gets dirtier from roost. When you wear it underneath the jersey, it gets dirtier from sweat. Either way, the Tech-Air MX will need to be cleaned, and care must be taken when doing so to properly remove and protect the electronics.

Overall, my first impression of the Tech-Air MX has been very positive. It was comfortable enough that I forgot I was wearing it once I got on the track, and I appreciated that it didn't deploy during a crash that I felt didn't warrant it. I'm looking forward to putting more hours on the Tech-Air MX and seeing how it performs over the rest of the season.

If you're considering adding a Tech-Air MX to your riding gear, you can check it out at MxBoot.com. We carry the Tech-Air MX, replacement canisters, and a wide variety of Alpinestars gear, and we're always happy to answer any questions to help you decide if it's the right choice for your riding!

*It's worth noting that rider feedback on low speed deployments still varies, and there are many factors involved in whether the Tech-Air MX deploys during a crash. Speed, impact angle, bike movement, rider movement, and the selected ride mode all play a role, so my experience shouldn't be taken as a guarantee of how the system will react in every situation.