Motorcycle gear must strike a balance between durability, comfort, and protection, often under challenging conditions. Among the materials that excel in these demanding applications, 1680D ballistic polyester stands out as a reliable and versatile choice. This fabric is widely used in motorcycle jackets, pants, luggage, and accessories, offering riders the protection and performance they need on the road.
What Is 1680D Ballistic Polyester?
The term 1680D refers to the denier count, a measure of the thickness and density of the individual fibres. A higher denier count indicates a thicker and stronger fabric. Ballistic polyester is specially woven for strength and durability, making it suitable for products requiring exceptional resistance to wear and tear. Treated with polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coatings, 1680D ballistic polyester also boasts water resistance and weatherproofing.
Key Features for Motorcycle Gear
- Exceptional Abrasion Resistance: Offers outstanding performance in high-impact areas like shoulders, elbows, and knees.
- Durability and Tear Resistance: Tightly woven fibres ensure excellent tear resistance for long-lasting gear.
- Lightweight Strength: Provides impressive protection without adding unnecessary bulk.
- Water Resistance: Repels water effectively with PU or PVC coatings.
- UV Stability: Resists degradation from UV exposure for long-lasting use.
Applications in Motorcycle Gear
- Textile Jackets and Pants: Reinforces high-impact zones to enhance abrasion resistance during slides.
- Motorcycle Luggage: Perfect for tank bags, panniers, and tail bags due to its durability and weather resistance.
- Gloves and Boots: Enhances durability in wear-prone areas like palms and toes.
- Rain Covers and Accessories: Water-repelling properties make it ideal for wet-weather gear.
Advantages Over Other Materials
- Cost-Effective: More affordable than ballistic nylon while delivering exceptional durability.
- UV Resistance: Maintains integrity and colour under prolonged sun exposure.
- Versatility: Suitable for a variety of motorcycle-related applications.
Popular Uses and Brands
Leading motorcycle gear brands, including RST, Oxford, and Alpinestars, incorporate 1680D ballistic polyester into their designs. This material is especially favoured for touring and adventure gear, where durability and weather resistance are paramount.
Alternatives to 1680D Ballistic Polyester in Motorcycle Gear
While 1680D ballistic polyester is a popular choice, several other materials offer comparable performance:
- 1680D Ballistic Nylon: Higher tensile strength with superior abrasion resistance but less UV-stable.
- Cordura® Nylon: Lightweight and durable, widely used in motorcycle gear for its abrasion resistance.
- SuperFabric®: Combines hard guard plates with fabric backing for unmatched abrasion resistance.
- Aramid Fibres (e.g., Kevlar®): Provides exceptional heat and abrasion resistance for reinforced panels.
- Ripstop Fabrics: Prevents tearing with a reinforced grid structure, offering flexibility and strength.