Airbags for motorcycles seek to increase safety on the motorcycle , the enjoyment of which implies a greater risk compared to driving passenger cars. Without this new system, in the event of impacts or falls, the only “barrier” that absorbs blows and bruises is the human body.



There is no doubt that being a motorcyclist is exciting for those who love freedom and speed. The adrenaline that is generated when traveling the asphalt on two wheels is indescribable, but at the same time, in Spain it represents a significant rate of serious accidents . Only at the end of June 2020 the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) registered 27 fatal accidents.


The same body registers 5.4 million motorcycles and mopeds with a circulation permit , which makes Spain the second country in the European Union with the largest number of two-wheelers in its fleet, 15% of the total according to it. DGT. This is why it is increasingly important to have adequate motorcycle insurance , with all the necessary coverages to drive completely calmly.


With these figures, both the authorities, manufacturers and motorcyclists' associations are increasingly committed to putting protection elements in the hands of motorcyclists , such as airbags . Gloves, vests and helmets are evolving towards creating an air pocket around the rider.


How does a motorcycle airbag work? It is very simple, its systems integrated into the driver's clothing and accessories swell and absorb shocks. It consists of a cord that is tied to the motorcycle on one side and to the driver on the other (in a kind of actuator). The moment a fall occurs, the driver separates from the vehicle, the cord is tightened and the plug disengages, activating the inflation system of the element in the garment in question (be it a vest, jacket, gloves or motorcycle helmet ) .


According to the manufacturers, its response speed is between 100 and 300 thousandths of a second . But beware, although the airbag as we know it in cars is a device of complex adaptation for motorcycles, technology increasingly points to criteria of high sophistication in helmets and vests.


And then, how can we know which are the most efficient systems and what advantages they bring to safety?


Advantages of a motorcycle with an airbag

Some benefits of investing in vests or jackets with an airbag for motorcycles are:


- They manage to avoid a large number of negative consequences due to accidents , such as serious injuries, and can even save your life. Protect yourself from injury to important areas of the body, such as the neck, shoulders, trunk, and spine.

- They are reusable. If the impact has not been so severe that the jacket has significant damage, you will only have to change the bottle and you can use it again.

- Whether mechanical or electronic, they swell in milliseconds . In addition, every day technology calibrates them better to make them safer and more efficient.

- They are quite light and comfortable, so you will feel that you have worn your jacket for a lifetime but with greater protection. In addition, they do not escape the fashion and design trends, with different models to choose from.


Types of motorcycle airbags

The first thing to say about its design is that the vest with airbag can be understood as a kind of airbag that is activated only in the event of an impact . Its function is the same as that of a car airbag, surrounding the driver with air to cushion the blow. But being part of the clothing, it acts protecting the entire torso and upper extremities of the driver, being effective in falls.


In short, it is a bag that is inflated through a small bottle of CO2 that is activated with a sudden movement. This effect is achieved through two mechanisms:


-Physical: This mechanism is also known as "man overboard" (for its use in the nautical world) and is activated through a cord that is hooked or connected to the motorcycle handlebar . This type is much cheaper than an electronic one, but its effectiveness is more than proven by experts.

-Electronic: It is an even more efficient mechanism than the previous one , since the CO2 inflation system is faster. It is activated by sensors that are programmed to detect an imminent fall . After 30 seconds the airbag begins to deflate.


The cost of motorcycle airbags

The advantages of using this type of security elements are life-saving , but they also include avoiding or reducing the risk of serious injuries that can leave significant consequences.


Their prices are highly variable according to the different models and complexity. They can go up to 500 or 600 euros , while the replacement of a bottle can be between 50 and 60 euros . Given the increased security they represent, it is a very reasonable investment.


When choosing between the different models, the recommendation is to be advised by professionals . That is why it is good to go to your regular motorcycle shop and ask about the options. Define the use that you will give it and acquire the vest with airbag adapted to your needs and priorities.

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