I just want to debunk some misinformation in the video. He stated that if you get off of a bike with a tethered airbag that is still tethered that the same thing would happen. No it won't. You need much more force of pull than you could ever do while just getting off of a bike.
Yeah he's definitely lying and coping, hoping that he didn't waste money on an e-vest. Tethered is superior in nearly all scenarios. The only advantage evests have is slightly earlier deployment time but even then it's pointless since I've yet to see an e-vest with proper. Neck protection
He has obviously never used a tethered system. I have five HITAIR jackets, been using them since 2006, I’ve ridden over 100,000 miles both dirt and street, every mile with a hitair jacket and not once did I accidentally inflate while getting off a bike. It takes a 40 pound pull to trigger the puncture pin. As far as forgetting to plug in, habits are hard to break, even good ones. I lay the tether across the seat when off the bike, it’s the first the I do after I swing a leg over, you don’t forget something you do routinely and habitually. I ride, I have fallen as well and the airbag concept works. The old style jackets with the co2 carts are heavy and a bit bulky but u get used to it. I will look at the new jackets soon, I like the idea of set and forget.
@@alvinsmith3894 apart from if you get hit by something. Tethered wouldn't necessarily deploy at all and unlikely to protect you from initial impact. evest would do both
It doesn't really look like the twisting motion caused the deployment. If you look closely right before the airbag went off, your hips were parallell to your shoulders. Your body was doing more rotational motion than twisting motion. However, the airbag deployed right when your right foot hit the ground. It looks like the sensor overreacted and mistook your dismounting as a fall.
I got one and so far it's great. My biggest gripe is actually the air flow. It blocks a significant mount. Most days it's a difference between sweating vs not sweating. But I'd rather sweat than bleed as they say.
While I can see Alpinestars’ response as reasonable, and I could believe the deployment being caused due to software updates not being installed prior, there is no way for them to presume their update would’ve prevented the vest from deploying. You sent in a video. You could say it deployed because of an algorithm that’s too sensitive, but since we don’t also have a video showing this same motion proving the new algorithm would’ve prevented this, A*’s response to me, is therefore moot. If they are serious in providing good customer service and wish to maintain good customer relations as it relates to their brand image, they should replace the vest at no charge, absolutely. Given that you are a RUclipsr with an audience, this move is stupid, if for that reason alone.
pains me to make generalizations, but A*stars customer service is really bad. They don’t really warranty anything. Let me repeat. They deny more things than they ever warranty (if at all).
I’d prefer the street system to be a bit more sensitive, sounds like the algorithm update should prevent what happened to you. For what it’s worth, I race in a tech-air system and have gone down multiple times in it, the race algorithms are much less sensitive. Two low-sides at speed did not set off the vest, one high-side did and I was thankful for it. To your point about saving a high-side and having it deploy, I don’t feel it will cause you to wreck when it goes off because in that moment you can’t even feel it deploy, I sure didn’t. One thing is for certain, you will be very glad you are wearing it if you can’t save it!
@@steve00alt70On race mode its intentional, It doesnt deploy if you're under I think 60mph, because on race Mode you're supposedly geared up. ALL THIS IS IN THE INSTRUCTIONS BTW PEOPLE JUST DONT READ THEM
Awesome catching that on camera. Have thought about one of these vests but that's a hard pass for now. Lame response for sure from AlpineStars if they are paying attention I expect you will get another contact from them.
Get the turtle 2 from helite. I don't trust this vest. You need to charge it and have an app etc, the turtle uses a tether and can be reloaded by you each time it goes off
Yeah this is a really bad look for them. This should not happen in a live software release. This is recall worthy of they can’t do over the air updates to everyone. I think I’ll prob go with the Klim vest.
This is the nature of tech-y stuff-it’s probably better than what you didn’t have before, but there will be failures of varying degrees and frequencies. On balance, I think you’re probably better off wearing the vest than not, but motorcycling starts with, and retains, a fairly high level of danger. Thanks for this info.
Helite doesn't deploy if you step off the bike and forget to unteather. And like a key over keyless ignitions, they're pretty fail-safe and more importantly don't cost a fortune to buy, don't require you to return the jacket to the manufacturer for reloading, and don't have an expensive subscription model to drive you crazy. For racers who have their paid and maintained for them, the automatic systems are great, but for general road riders, a cheaper option that can be loaded by themselves cheaply at any time make better sense IMPO.
I don't think a deployment would cause you to lose the bike. I have worn the tech air and had it deployed. It doesn't really limit your arms. I agree there are advantages to a dumb back protector setup, but the "little better" protection you mentoined is actually a 78% reduction in injuries compared to CE LEVEL 2. So, it is significant.
He's wrong about a tethered jacket going off when you step off the bike. I've done it many times and that just isn't nearly enough force to trigger the vest. I did have a crash with a tethered vest and it worked perfectly. Good review of this vest and I think I'm going to invest in one.
I much prefer the tethered Helite vests. No dangerous software glitches and instant €20 gas canister replacement (which is convenient when you’re on a trip). The tether itself is really a non-issue tbh. It becomes second nature to clip it in when you get on your bike and I’ve never had it deploy when stepping off the bike with the tether still attached-it requires a bit more force than that.
@@th33b33 Another benefit is helite vest is worn on the outside of your jacket. I am not confident that anyone really knows whether their existing jacket is big enough to accommodate an a-star deployment and that airbag is not stopping once triggered. Also, you can take the helite off and lock to your bike (like with helmet) and go on your way wearing a jacket that has no bulky back/chest protectors installed since the helite has all of that
Yeah and the Helite protects your neck/spine. I’m actually also looking at getting a Helite, maybe the electronic version. The electronic version can be paired with an optional fork sensor which makes it deploy much faster. And it works at low speeds and standstill. So when you get rear ended at a traffic light you’re still protected because you’re not depended on the tether getting pulled.
Not surprised it deployed by that motion.. that's exactly how i'd code it, a twist followed by that deceleration when stepping on the ground :) I suppose there's a reason why some wireless airbags don't deploy below 20 km/h
I've been using a tether airbag for years and have yet to set it off dismounting, I've yanked it pretty hard too. Remember to clip into the tether is a real issue though, I often find out ~100 feet into my ride when I double check my helmet fastener that my airbag tether is just dangling. I need to condition myself to do that safety check before moving...
Thanks! I was about to purchase this airbag but now I'm going to go with the Helite Turtle. $300 dollar for a refill is outrageous. I'm a new rider, I know something someday will happen. I would rather have something simple that will work every time and be cheap to fix than something complicated that may or may not go off and cost outrageous prices. Thanks again for the video.
The refill on the Alpinestars Tech Air 5 is $179, not $300. The coverage area on the Helite is severely lacking. And the Helite costs more than the Tech Air 5.
@@krytenLister Zero shoulder coverage (with collar bone injuries being the most common motorcycling injury), no coverage for the ribs other than narrowly along the front, just for starters. I'm not sure how to evaluate claims like "prevents hugely more forces," with any sincerity.
@@brianhaygood183Nice try, but your comment is rubbish as official stats show most common injuries are to lower extremities. When inflated the Turtle does expand far enough out to prevent injury to ribs, back and shoulders and being safest on the market is why it's the only one trusted by the emergency services.
Unless you are a gp rider, they treat you as crap... happened to me with a race vest that did not deploy in a track crash over 120km/h , which ended in a big tumble and a shoulder injury that should have been prevented if it deployed... took over 6 month back and forth with them, and when I started saying I would like the vest back to make an independent review on it they conveniently lost my vest and ended up refunding the vest.... don't trust Alpinestars and their Airbag vest. I use an Ixon now. Easier to work and maintenance can be performed by yourself.
With the Race vest all you need to do is plug it into your computer and upload street mode from the techair app for riding on the street. If you plan on doing track days you simply upload race mode. The Race vest is two vests in one. In street mode it will fire both canisters in a crash where race only fires one so you have the advantage of getting back on track after a crash. It’s crazy how some on here are getting there nickers in a Knott over the techair 5 false deployment. Nothing in this world is perfect even new bikes and cars can have stuff go wrong. I didn’t take it either like Astars was giving this dude the finger they were just explaining that there was a update to the firmware that hadn’t been done. With techair 5 you get firmware update messages sent to your phone to update the vest. I don’t work for Astars it’s just that I own the Race vest and the Techair 5 and am interested in this tech. Anyhow good luck young fella Astars might do the service for free!
I can see it for many to be a deterrent from purchasing it, although I see the cost of repacking it a higher cause for many of us not to buy it. If I was doing track days every weekend, then yes I would likely go with the Astars simply because of the higher risk at track speeds. I don't need tech failing on the the street, a false deployment could startle some people and cause an accident. Imagine if your airbag in your car deploys without a crash? I think they're great for the track, but tethered seems more logical and cost affective for on street.
Daren Cummings Hey Daren, I’ve owned the race vest for 2 years come January next year I’ve hit some really big bumps dips in the road Power wheelies and have never had any deployment issues. The 5 I’ve owned for a bit over 14 months same deal no deployment. I think for track and street riding the race vest is the best option if you have techair compatible suit, jacket. The 5 is a great idea plus it now has race and street firmware so you can swap from race to street using a app on you phone. Bit the downside with the 5 is even in race mode it still fires 2 canisters where the race only fires one so you still have one deployment left. It’s not cheap to get it repacked if you have a deployment but for me I only ride on the street and hopefully I will never need it but in the even at least I know it might save my bacon. Jeff
Hey! I am 7:39 minutes into the video and I just had a question about the vest. Does it not actually arm itself when you close it up? And those lights go on? Then, if you were to stop riding, and then unzip the west before getting off of the bike, then it couldn't deploy? And I do understand this would be the same sort of "extra steps/extra hazzle" as a tether system of course. Just asking as a question.
I have used the hit air system tether cord and yes it went off a few times because I ride aggressive. Each time it worked and protected my neck and hip area. The best part, I carry a extra canister so I repacked it myself and put in a canister which cost me 25 bucks at the scene. So when riding home, I have an actual working air vest. I don't have to send it off, pay 300 bucks and wait for it to be shipped. What ever your preference is, its a good accessory to have.
I bought this vest today in Czech Republic, and according to the user manual, there are some specific actions to do or avoid. Point number 1 says, deactivate the vest BEFORE getting of the bike. It seems they have not figured out how to make in the algorithm…
I rode my bike today to work a forgot to turn off the airbag vest before getting if the bike. Nothing happened, all is good. So it may happen, but did not happen to me today.
Fantastic to get the update. Back in the days when I was riding on the street, if this tech. had been available, I would be hesitant for all the same reasons you mentioned. But ultimately, probably would have done it if the price was right. My street riding was not overly aggressive, so it should have been fine. Although, your movements that set this off could have just as easily occurred at a stop light and you stretching while waiting to move on. Dirt bikers/extreme off roaders should def. have some protection, but not air bags. Way too many movements that could scare it to going off when you are just making motions that you need to for the extreme terrain.
Total conjecture: My theory is the algo interpreted this as a rear end after coming to a stop (eg at a light). At ~1:17 in the source vid, looks like he's only just stopped, reaches up to turn off key, then dismounts in a fairly fluid motion. (not fast by any means but not slowly). I suspect the algo is more sensitive shortly after coming to a stop ) presumably getting rear ended more likely? The rear end at a light is a concerning scenario for me. It's a reason I bought the electronic vs mechanical tether system. As mentioned, deploy at standstill is a key difference between street and race systems. Besides making sure to check for updates, I'll now spend a bit of time sitting at stand still on bike before getting off. Good time to just sit in the bike and remove gloves, let the algo have some settle down time. Also, I'm definitely buying a camera. It could pay for itself with one airbag recharge fee. Agree, the recharge fee is too high. A stars needs to be generous with freebies early on here.
what you say on 8:06 happens from time to time in racing, especially in Moto2 as there is not TCS, a lot of the times riders save that highside but sometimes the airbag goes off, however it then deflates and they can continue
Ill tell you, this doesent look good on Alpine Star. The evidence is on video. It inflated, when it shouldnt have. They admit to it. But, they turn it back on you for not doing a software up-date. Thats not right. They should be covering the re-packing. I wont be buying one from them and I like their gear.
@@benghazi4216 yeah, I like the Helite for its cheap DIY cartridge replacement, but I just wish they came out with one that covers the shoulders (which is why I'm looking at the techair 5), cuz landing on the shoulders is common, and it could break bones.
@@gwot I had the same feeling, and thus will buy their new offroad vest they are testing on this years Dakar race. It is what you are searching for. Techair 5 is for me not an option since I'm not made of money (due to my frequent deployments) 300 bucks for every deployment would make me poor in a jiffy.
@@benghazi4216 after looking at some deployment videos and pictures, there's hardly any difference in terms of bag coverage. I wanted the outside shoulder (deltoid) coverage.
This is exactly why choose to avoid going with an electronic Airbag system. Too many variables to go wrong with electronics, and after all is said / done. You still have to send it back to them, hoping they won't charge you to reset the system and fix their errors.
Alpinestars is beeing inconsequent here. First they say : "it does not appear so, as the update would have prevented this from happening". Then at the end of the letter they say"with the updated software, you can rest assured this will not happen again" ? that simply does not make sense to me.
They are blaming him for not updating the software. They must have accessed his account and seen what software version he had installed last in his vest.
I have a Dainese smart jacket. I'm considering changing over to the tech air 5 because of the coverage it has over the Dainese. One concern is that I can't find anywhere whether it is weather resistant at all. The Dainese specifically states that it can be used in the rain, inside or outside of your jacket. I've emailed Alpinestars but haven't heard back yet. One thing to remember with these is that they are using AI to detect whether it's a crash or not. Every deployment that happens the data goes back to them when you send it in for a repack. I look regularly for updates and there's been at least 5 that I've owned the smart jacket. So your false deployment will go in there as well. To get the maximum benefit from these air bag vests you need to regularly update - which is what Alpinestars told you. An update was out 7 months before your deployment and from their response it looks like this was a known issue that they fixed with the software update.
They are working out kinks in new tech, it’s worth it. Free reset also is great. Can you turn it off when you dismount? I just got the tech air 10 hope it’s worth it
The notion that if you have a tether clipped on to your bike and you get off if it and it will deploy is false- it take a considerable amount of force to rip that tether cord- getting off a bike and forgetting it’s there won’t do it.
Yikes that will hurt alpinestars sales now. But it takes trial and error for the technology to improve. I like the old tethered system. Analog is very reliable there is less stuff to go wrong.
Thanks for the followup on the vest situation. I'm glad to hear that Alpinestars repacked the jacket for free, and updated it to the latest software. Quick question: Does Alpinestars offer updates that you can do to the vest yourself? I have the Dainese D-Air Smart Jacket, and that is one advantage that I know it has. Whenever there is a software update available, I can upload it to the jacket as I am charging it up from my computer.
I have the same Tech-Air 5, and I always keep an eye for any updates. I also watch the charge level during the winter here in NJ where I'm not using it. I let it drain down, then charge it back up to full. During this past Summer I used it for several rides without charging, and it maintained a good 80% 70%. once it gets down to about 45% I re-charge it. I also have a Helite Leather Vest, But the sizing is a bit tight..(My Fault) , but it also give a feeling of security.
I get off my bike like that all the time! It probably didn't have good enough algorithm, because it deemed the getting off turn around as beyond the movement a recovery would have on a bike (typically you aren't going to 180). It does seem like the kind of accidental setoff that is solvable by training it to recognize those patterns, especially at zero momentum.
Bro there was a software update that you didn’t bother to do. I check mine weekly to see if there are any updates. Upkeep is on you. As with any technology it’s going to improve with time.
My Helite Turtle 2 has deployed twice now. The first time I slipped back getting off the bike with bike on side stand and the second time was on a small stationary tip over when i was backing up the bike and my boot slipped on some gravel. In both cases it was annoying that they deployed but it has never deployed from just walking away from the bike.
Just came across this. Worse than the faulty release is the fact that you cannot get it serviced yourself- Helite‘s e-turtle vest can be recharged by the user in 1 min! And that multiple times if necessary. I upgraded to the electronic vest as soon as it came out last year. A friend had an accidental release like you - Helite recalled all vests - updated the software at no charge. Also his new cartridge was on Helite - he did not have to pay anything. Just saying 😉
Definitely faulty software and should not have went off! It the airbag goes off while you’re riding you certainly may go down. I hope they have a good insurance company in case someone dies because their airbag went off.
The system is designed to be non restrictive when deployed and I can tell you from experience you can not tell it’s gone off in the moment of a wreck or a near miss incident. I highly doubt it will cause a wreck, but you will be very glad to be wearing one if you do go down.
Alex, Thanks so much for the review. Have you seen the new system from Helite called eTurtle? Looks like it may have been available for a short time in other countries. They’re targeting 2021 for USA according to an email from their rep. Have you tried the Klim system? A comparo video would be great.
Great report Alex. You had a video of the deployment but did Alpinestars also have black box data from your suit to see exactly what g-forces triggered the airbag? It seems that early adopters like you are beta testing these suits. Seems to me that Alpinestars should absorb the repacking fee for undamaged (no road rash) suits.
Near the end of the video, he said that Alpinestars agreed to repack the jacket for free. I'm not sure if he had already sent it to them, or if it was just emails exchanged back and forth before the jacket was sent, however. I'm just that when they do have it in house for repairs and updates that they will check out whatever the software can provide.
I would have requested a brand new vest. This looks more like a product defect. This is a very common motion. If it truly was just an algorithm issue, I would think this would have happened before. How many times did Alex previously get on and off the bike using the same motion? This seems kind of random to me.
There is no way there is a manufacturing defect that caused this. It's not run by a mechanical system. What you're talking about is like asking Microsoft for a new copy of Windows because you think your copy is bad.
Hi. Thanks for sharing your experience with the inflatable vest. I wanted to know if you think there is enough protection for the neck when falling off the motorcycle?
Guess RUclips recommended me this video because I was searching for an airbag :) I really like the Tech Air 5 system (really big fan of Alpinestars), but the fact that you have to send it back if it deploys and costs quite a lot to have it serviced makes me think that Helite would be a better option. If only they would have adopted the Helite approach - self service/reload 3 times before sending it for service would have made Tech Air 5 a sure choice. They could have made the reload cartridges even a little bit more expensive (because, as any company, they are looking to make a profit), and that I think that would have been ok.
My thoughts- this would have turned out differently had you not gotten the bag deployment on camera. Regardless of them knowing about Your RUclips channel once you had documentation they were subject to having this exposed on motorcycle forums, Facebook, etc. This is definitely not a technology I’m going to be adopting anytime soon.
I'm guess this is on him. They replied that the updated software would keep this from happening and I bet they looked at his account and knew exactly what software version he had installed at the time.
@@kalel33that’s 100% correct yet they STILL repacked and updated the software and jacket for free and he complains. My Ducati traction control let go once, I didn’t get the ECU updated and that is why it let go, that’s software, issues happen from time to time and they need to fix them, I mean, iPhone ring a bell for updates after updates
I’m not a street person what so ever I’m a dirt guy by choice but with airbag tech becoming more prevalent and more common I feel like this is from a computer mistaking your dismount for a mid speed fall and for a street system that seems like it would be a good thing and from the support side from Astars I think they did a great job at trying to keep you the costumer happy and it probably did help that you did catch it on video
Yeah, I think I'll go with a tethered system. I've seen race variants not deploy on the local track, multiple times, and have seen a couple of occurrences like the one described here. This seems to offer the most protection, yet seems to do a rather poor job at head/helmet support.
This is exactly why i prefer a tethered system. I have forgot to detach numerus times and has not yet been able to falsly set it of. It requires a pull of 70kg to go of. You will not pull that hard on the tether unless you fall or have an accident. I think its easier to remember to connect my west too the bike than wonder when I charged the batteries the last time and I consider my self to be a tech nerd. And having to deal with software updates. REALY?
Mine didn't deploy when I crashed. 25mph ish near Mulholland. I asked them what some possible causes are. They never got back to me. Will try again. I'm just confused, because I see these things deploy all the time on Moto GP. Maybe there's just too many variables on the the street for the algorithms, and they just don't have it all figured out.
@@ninja1970fin My helmet cracked, got a new one. Some minor headaches for a couple weeks. Shoulder armor damaged, but no real injuries. I have helite analog as well. I crashed hard in that one before. Saved me from serious injuries. Let me know how the spidi one is.
@@MotoRenaissance thanks. I take it you are fine now, good! The Spidi is pretty much the same as Hit-Air, infact they do collaboration. It is still snowing so it will take some time before Im driving with it on my zx6r but stationary it feels really good! Better than Helite Turtle 2.
Looks like it went off when your right foot hit the ground. I suspect it was the sudden force of your foot’s impact vibrating through your body. If it was the twisting, wouldn’t it have gone off earlier? I own both Helite and Hitair tethered versions. I set the Helite one off on an off-road low side. I think there are advantages to both kinds. The tether is simple and cheap to reuse, but requires you to remember to connect it and does less in a low side. The electronic ones have to be charged and depend on math rather than simple physics to go off. It is almost impossible to set off the tethered ones just getting off your bike. It takes a sudden impact of 60 pounds. You feel a tug and it reminds you to unhook.
In the airbag's defence: you did a full 180 while coming off. I'm not saying, it should deploy in this situation, but I'm saying I see the point why it does. You got up, did a 180 so fast, it thought you were airborne. Once again: I'm not saying, this should happen. I'm saying, I hardly see a situation while riding that one does a 180 this quick and is in control of the bike (other than stunt riders maybe, but this isn't for them).
After watching what happened what’s the problem? You want it to work. You got off the bike with authority while spinning which sent the gyro. Which caused the bag to go. Which would have been wonderful for an emergency. Seeing this made me want one
go with a helite airbag. they make electric ones, i believe they are the best even in safety. also a helite tether needs 30kg (60 pounds i think) of force to activate so stepping of and forgetting would need much more force than that twist.
I wouldn't change a thing on that airbag. It did its job. Maybe next time you won't twist off your bike when you dismount it. I want my airbag to go off in that kind of scenario. Having said that I would consider a tether airbag vest if it had the shoulder protection that the tech air five does. None of the other airbags have that protection.
I just watched your video of the airvest deploying. I am curious as to if you are still riding with it and also has it deployed again. Also if you are still riding with it have you become comfortable with it again. I imagine for the first few rides or weeks you may have been a bit hesitant about your movements while wearing it.
And what will happen if at a speed of 200-250km \ hour with an airbag running, they will then return the money to me for the purchased item and for the broken BMW s1000rr motorcycle of the fourth generation?
Why do you think your airbag is going to deploy at 155 mph? Why are you twirling off of your motorcycle while you are riding at 155 mph? Where exactly are you riding your motorcycle at while riding at 155 mph?
What a stupid question. Unless you are on a track, you are a danger to everyone on the road at 200+ kph. Even at anything over 120in my area. Maybe you live near the sections of the autobahn where this is still legal, but I don’t get that impression. Ya lose your bike at those speeds in the highway, I don’t thing you deserve to get it, or your license back, EVER!
I think I prefer the tether version. A back and chest protector won't give the same level of protection. Especially for the neck, so an airbag is a good idea. I just have to remember that it has a tether so I don't get off my bike and set it off.
With the force needed to set off a tethered vest you would have to fall off your bike to trigger it. And, if by chance you do accidently trigger a tethered vest it's quick and cheap to reset the vest and can be done by you.
Hi Alex, Did Alpinestars fore warn you of the need to update your vest Software Prior to your incident ? If not it would seem they bear the responsibility to Recharge your vest at their expense !
Who man! When this is happening when your riding it's very dangerous I think. I definitely takes the wired option because you don't forget the lanyard attached to your bike because it becomes a habit. Thanks for this useful video!
I've had my Helite for 5 years, but I still forget I'm tethered when I get off every now and then. However, it takes quite a bit of pressure to get it to release so I've never had it deploy
i dont think it was a 'twist' that caused the deployment. When you stepped off the bike, you stomped your left foot. You simulated a crash at that moment. example; You were moving, moving , moving, THEN impacted the ground, aka Stomped your foot. The vest worked as designed.
I've noticed that the air bag is completely messy inside the vest. I didn't find any guidance in the user guide so I will be grateful if you can advice how to e-organize and connect the airbag inside the vest. Thanks.
I have one of these... AS does not notify my of updates which seems like a really bad idea. Every user has to have an account and register their suit #, etc.
I have at last got my Ducati Diavel into the country I am now just waiting for it to get unloaded and shipped to the dealer, Only been waiting for 6 months lol but then this is NZ. I was looking into this system however given its over pricing and tech failures I shall be going for alternatives. NO aspect of critical safety should be dependent on a 'software update' to this degree. It staggers me they replied in such a lousy way. Thanks for saving me the bother.
Have wanted an airbag vest but this type of stuff makes me think it needs a few more years of refinement before I can spend that type of money. Don't know if I missed it but doesn't Aplinestars have a monthly subscription to use the airbag? Thanks for sharing your experience! Appreciate it.
No subscription required for the tech air. Thats a different one though its cheaper up front to buy and then monthly payments. I think they now (klim?) have an option where you pay the full higher cost up front and no subscription fee.
Helite is a much better option. You can repack it yourself in 2min, and the tethered one for 20bucks. I'm not sure how much it costs for their e-vest. But it's in the same ballpark.
you should be happy that it was a false positive rather than a false negative. With an algo system like this you need to understand that there will be outliers and the fact that they erred on the false positive is actually reassuring.
I’d marry the love-child of Dainese D|Air and Alpinestars vests: In July, my 2020 Alpinestars TechAir Race didn’t deploy when I flew over the bars at 80 km/h on a tight technical racetrack. I’m still on disability recovering. Dainese algorithms appear more forgiving, w highside deployment threshold at 50kmh instead of Alpinestars TechAir Race’s 100kmh While Dainese might have deployed in my July off, the coverage is much less than the AlpineStars. Fellow racers & coached won’t go out on-track without their Hit-Air. A couple of racers run Dainese D|Air with Hit-Air on top.
Good video Alex. I wear an Hit-Air airbag vest with a tether and that would never happen since it takes 70 pounds of pressure to trigger it... A little spooky to see this. Alpinestars do some good products but I prefer put my faith on the hands of a tether than an algorithm. Cheers 🤓🙏
I am thinking the KLIM might be better now that the algorithms misread you getting off off your bike too fast. This is why that the service plan has regular updates in the service plan that come out monthly. Next. KLIM and similar titheless vests are only around $100 to reinsert an air canister that you can do yourself. Saving you around $200 dollars on the refill. The KLIM has abrasion basic rating without the need for an extra jacket. But lest face it,, the KLIM is a racket due to the fact that it does NOT come with any way to use it without signing up with the $120 entrance service plan FIRST!! On top of that you pay a $20 per month extra update charge for the service. Even if you are a seasonal rider, too bad for you! On the positive side,, you have a more compact vest on the Tech 5 and you can ware it under any other jacket without binding up your air bag vest function due to a smaller outwear jacket. The KLIM is updated using an APP on your phone and you never know if it gets shut off if your payment is late or something went wrong in your bank auto withdrawal that you KLIM vest is using for your update payments. Bottom line? Even a tether air bag vest is better than nothing. Thanks
The alpinestars airbag vest I bought came with the center clasp half torn off, wouldn't pair with the app at all, and refused to fully charge. *NO* real help from Alpinestars AT ALL. When I called their company, all I got was "I'm not answering your question. Call back tomorrow." Returned that thing QUICKLY.
It would be cool to get the data from the Airbag Sensors. Maybe it would be a good idea on adding a device that tells the airbag if your stand is up or not. I also think they don't have a gps in there cause they would have seen that this motion has not enough force to injur you. But i need to say from a technical point of view this stuff isn't that easy to implement.
Alpinestars typical response from my experience. Unless they issued a recall for that defective software on that thing they sold you, I'd file a NHTSA or CPSC complaint/report. It failed to provide its basic function during its intended lifetime without a major service that would not have been needed without their screw up. Thanks for the video, I'll add Alpinestars to the long (sadly) list of companies that I will think long and hard about before making a purchase.
It says they had an update for this very reason, unfortunately Alex missed it. They still repacked the bag for free. Other commenters on the post state the update Alex needed was out 7 months before the incident happened. I don’t blame Alex directly, I don’t know all of the details. What I do know if the details, shows that Alpinestar were on top of this and even though they didn’t have to repackage the airbag as the update already existed, they did so for free and updated his vest to current specs. Don’t really see an issue here. Ya just have to make sure you stay up to date with your product as an owner. I don’t own one but am seriously considering it. I have full protection the old school way with Belstaff products. I ride a Ryker Rally, so was of the idea that maybe I don’t need an airbag, but a recent local rider was in an accident that has made me think twice.
@@shitloveaduck The update you mention is in the video at 6:26. There was nothing to miss, because Alpinestars didn't contact Alex with a notification of their defective software or any other recall. He only found out after the defective product inadvertently deployed and he contacted them. In no way do I see Alpinestars as "on top of this". Now if we found out that Alex failed to register his product when new, or ignored recall or safety notices ... that would be a different story. If you buy one of these things are you going to check for a software update every day before you ride? I really do hope it it works out and it helps you if you need it. I don't mind the "it is firmware updateable" beta testing/marketing technology cycle when it is my action cam or my 3d printer. It is a different story when we are dealing with direct safety items. I bought some Alpinestars off-road gear just this morning, so your comment was timely (and apparently my memory is short). Stay safe.
@@adaycj - you are one of those guys, see the responsibility to stay on top of the updates is on the owner of the vest. Called taking on the responsibility yourself. It’s implied but you are someone who needs to be spoon fed. I have wasted enough time on you. Calm down,,,,,,,,,
@@shitloveaduck Who isn't calm? You commented on a 4 month old video under a 4 month old comment. You offered a belated rebuttal. If you can't handle a different point of view I'm not sure why you posted an opposing view to my comment anyway. Were you just looking to have the last word? Some advice you didn't ask for: Don't assign made up traits to a person when you don't like their point of view. Maybe we should put a Holley on it?
@@adaycj - I’m still calm. I don’t find people who chose to always point the blame on the corporations, neighbours, and anywhere else but to accept responsibilities for themselves. You read too much into what I said. Bye.
Mechanical tether every time for me just my preference, also the neck doesn’t seem as protected with this system……Shocking when the thing just explodes on you randomly that would certainly wake you up fast 😂
I love the idea of this thing but I am 100% sure I’d stink it up to high heavens after a ride or two in the summer, esp since it’s guaranteed to make me sweat even more. I watched the Alpinestars “cleaning” instruction video and it was silly. “Use a damp microfiber cloth”. Uh, right, that will get rid of my stank 🙄. Have you experienced horrible BO building up in the Tech-Air 5? Also, I assume part of the trade-off with wearing this is you remove the back and shoulder armor from whatever jacket you wear over it, right? Seems like it would be super bulky otherwise. Have you also been removing your elbow armor and rolling the dice there? I agree your accidental deployment is goofy. You didn’t make any particularly violent movements. And yours is not the only case, based on some other reviews (one dude just rode over a bump in the road, and not a particularly bad one). But I guess that’s the nature of “AI” and “algorithms”, they are based on statistics and training and can only account for what they’ve encountered before. Hopefully the firmware update solved the issue.
I’m late I’m a new rider. I want to get one of these jackets but is it better a year later and is it worth it since they came out recently with a new suit system. Please help me with my purchase
I've been riding since 1986, It's been 11 months since you posted this. $750.00 for safety 1 and done. Your life is worth saving. New systems are always trial and error in real world environment, there is going to be advancements as time progresses. I believe if you ask to have a free repack they may have understood the issue because of the expense and error. They admitted to you not getting an update or were you notified and not aware. After all a safety measure is addressed. It's all about safety, and honestly you could have left that scene and something traumatic may have happened that the device may have not been able save you from the error. Twisting motions are always happening when coming off a bike, fast or slow. We are talking impact and "dramatic" motion. Another words sudden impact or striking motion. I do not think your actions on the video is either.
Great Job Alex !!
I just want to debunk some misinformation in the video. He stated that if you get off of a bike with a tethered airbag that is still tethered that the same thing would happen. No it won't. You need much more force of pull than you could ever do while just getting off of a bike.
Yeah he's definitely lying and coping, hoping that he didn't waste money on an e-vest. Tethered is superior in nearly all scenarios. The only advantage evests have is slightly earlier deployment time but even then it's pointless since I've yet to see an e-vest with proper. Neck protection
He has obviously never used a tethered system. I have five HITAIR jackets, been using them since 2006, I’ve ridden over 100,000 miles both dirt and street, every mile with a hitair jacket and not once did I accidentally inflate while getting off a bike. It takes a 40 pound pull to trigger the puncture pin.
As far as forgetting to plug in, habits are hard to break, even good ones. I lay the tether across the seat when off the bike, it’s the first the I do after I swing a leg over, you don’t forget something you do routinely and habitually. I ride, I have fallen as well and the airbag concept works. The old style jackets with the co2 carts are heavy and a bit bulky but u get used to it. I will look at the new jackets soon, I like the idea of set and forget.
@@alvinsmith3894 apart from if you get hit by something. Tethered wouldn't necessarily deploy at all and unlikely to protect you from initial impact. evest would do both
@@alvinsmith3894 e-vest arent even faster, at 50kph you clear that 1.5 meter string in .36 seconds while e-vest are like .40 or more.
@@MrLeeson660 not really it definitely would deploy if he fell
It doesn't really look like the twisting motion caused the deployment. If you look closely right before the airbag went off, your hips were parallell to your shoulders. Your body was doing more rotational motion than twisting motion. However, the airbag deployed right when your right foot hit the ground. It looks like the sensor overreacted and mistook your dismounting as a fall.
I got one and so far it's great. My biggest gripe is actually the air flow. It blocks a significant mount. Most days it's a difference between sweating vs not sweating. But I'd rather sweat than bleed as they say.
well yes but the point of motorcycles is fun. So if you care about safety, get a car.
@@nocensorship8092 Yeah because no ones ever died in a car before?
@@nocensorship8092 lol sounds like the silly viewpoint of a kid who doesn't ride.
While I can see Alpinestars’ response as reasonable, and I could believe the deployment being caused due to software updates not being installed prior, there is no way for them to presume their update would’ve prevented the vest from deploying. You sent in a video. You could say it deployed because of an algorithm that’s too sensitive, but since we don’t also have a video showing this same motion proving the new algorithm would’ve prevented this, A*’s response to me, is therefore moot. If they are serious in providing good customer service and wish to maintain good customer relations as it relates to their brand image, they should replace the vest at no charge, absolutely. Given that you are a RUclipsr with an audience, this move is stupid, if for that reason alone.
pains me to make generalizations, but A*stars customer service is really bad. They don’t really warranty anything. Let me repeat. They deny more things than they ever warranty (if at all).
I’d prefer the street system to be a bit more sensitive, sounds like the algorithm update should prevent what happened to you. For what it’s worth, I race in a tech-air system and have gone down multiple times in it, the race algorithms are much less sensitive. Two low-sides at speed did not set off the vest, one high-side did and I was thankful for it. To your point about saving a high-side and having it deploy, I don’t feel it will cause you to wreck when it goes off because in that moment you can’t even feel it deploy, I sure didn’t. One thing is for certain, you will be very glad you are wearing it if you can’t save it!
Thats why I like the old tethered system
@@steve00alt70On race mode its intentional, It doesnt deploy if you're under I think 60mph, because on race Mode you're supposedly geared up.
ALL THIS IS IN THE INSTRUCTIONS BTW PEOPLE JUST DONT READ THEM
Awesome catching that on camera. Have thought about one of these vests but that's a hard pass for now. Lame response for sure from AlpineStars if they are paying attention I expect you will get another contact from them.
Get the turtle 2 from helite. I don't trust this vest. You need to charge it and have an app etc, the turtle uses a tether and can be reloaded by you each time it goes off
Yeah this is a really bad look for them. This should not happen in a live software release. This is recall worthy of they can’t do over the air updates to everyone. I think I’ll prob go with the Klim vest.
I would really like you to try "doing the same" with a Helite vest connected with a tether.
60 pounds is really quite a lot of pull
This is the nature of tech-y stuff-it’s probably better than what you didn’t have before, but there will be failures of varying degrees and frequencies. On balance, I think you’re probably better off wearing the vest than not, but motorcycling starts with, and retains, a fairly high level of danger. Thanks for this info.
Helite doesn't deploy if you step off the bike and forget to unteather. And like a key over keyless ignitions, they're pretty fail-safe and more importantly don't cost a fortune to buy, don't require you to return the jacket to the manufacturer for reloading, and don't have an expensive subscription model to drive you crazy. For racers who have their paid and maintained for them, the automatic systems are great, but for general road riders, a cheaper option that can be loaded by themselves cheaply at any time make better sense IMPO.
I don't think a deployment would cause you to lose the bike. I have worn the tech air and had it deployed. It doesn't really limit your arms.
I agree there are advantages to a dumb back protector setup, but the "little better" protection you mentoined is actually a 78% reduction in injuries compared to CE LEVEL 2. So, it is significant.
He's wrong about a tethered jacket going off when you step off the bike. I've done it many times and that just isn't nearly enough force to trigger the vest. I did have a crash with a tethered vest and it worked perfectly. Good review of this vest and I think I'm going to invest in one.
Anyway it is better to have more sensitive airbag that sometimes deploys unnecessary than the airbag that will not deploy when necessary
I much prefer the tethered Helite vests. No dangerous software glitches and instant €20 gas canister replacement (which is convenient when you’re on a trip).
The tether itself is really a non-issue tbh. It becomes second nature to clip it in when you get on your bike and I’ve never had it deploy when stepping off the bike with the tether still attached-it requires a bit more force than that.
I have one as well....Ill take the analog version.
@@th33b33 Another benefit is helite vest is worn on the outside of your jacket. I am not confident that anyone really knows whether their existing jacket is big enough to accommodate an a-star deployment and that airbag is not stopping once triggered. Also, you can take the helite off and lock to your bike (like with helmet) and go on your way wearing a jacket that has no bulky back/chest protectors installed since the helite has all of that
Yeah and the Helite protects your neck/spine.
I’m actually also looking at getting a Helite, maybe the electronic version. The electronic version can be paired with an optional fork sensor which makes it deploy much faster. And it works at low speeds and standstill. So when you get rear ended at a traffic light you’re still protected because you’re not depended on the tether getting pulled.
Not surprised it deployed by that motion.. that's exactly how i'd code it, a twist followed by that deceleration when stepping on the ground :) I suppose there's a reason why some wireless airbags don't deploy below 20 km/h
I've been using a tether airbag for years and have yet to set it off dismounting, I've yanked it pretty hard too. Remember to clip into the tether is a real issue though, I often find out ~100 feet into my ride when I double check my helmet fastener that my airbag tether is just dangling. I need to condition myself to do that safety check before moving...
Thanks! I was about to purchase this airbag but now I'm going to go with the Helite Turtle. $300 dollar for a refill is outrageous. I'm a new rider, I know something someday will happen. I would rather have something simple that will work every time and be cheap to fix than something complicated that may or may not go off and cost outrageous prices. Thanks again for the video.
The refill on the Alpinestars Tech Air 5 is $179, not $300. The coverage area on the Helite is severely lacking. And the Helite costs more than the Tech Air 5.
Consider Klim air vest
@@brianhaygood183 Absolute rubbish - the Helite covers more area, inflates thicker and prevents hugely more forces being transmitted ito the body.
@@krytenLister Zero shoulder coverage (with collar bone injuries being the most common motorcycling injury), no coverage for the ribs other than narrowly along the front, just for starters. I'm not sure how to evaluate claims like "prevents hugely more forces," with any sincerity.
@@brianhaygood183Nice try, but your comment is rubbish as official stats show most common injuries are to lower extremities. When inflated the Turtle does expand far enough out to prevent injury to ribs, back and shoulders and being safest on the market is why it's the only one trusted by the emergency services.
Unless you are a gp rider, they treat you as crap... happened to me with a race vest that did not deploy in a track crash over 120km/h , which ended in a big tumble and a shoulder injury that should have been prevented if it deployed... took over 6 month back and forth with them, and when I started saying I would like the vest back to make an independent review on it they conveniently lost my vest and ended up refunding the vest.... don't trust Alpinestars and their Airbag vest. I use an Ixon now. Easier to work and maintenance can be performed by yourself.
With the Race vest all you need to do is plug it into your computer and upload
street mode from the techair app for riding on the street.
If you plan on doing track days you simply upload race mode.
The Race vest is two vests in one.
In street mode it will fire both canisters in a crash where race only fires one so you have the
advantage of getting back on track after a crash.
It’s crazy how some on here are getting there nickers in a Knott over the techair 5 false deployment.
Nothing in this world is perfect even new bikes and cars can have stuff go wrong.
I didn’t take it either like Astars was giving this dude the finger they were just explaining that there was a update
to the firmware that hadn’t been done.
With techair 5 you get firmware update messages sent to your phone to update the vest.
I don’t work for Astars it’s just that I own the Race vest and the Techair 5 and am interested in this tech.
Anyhow good luck young fella Astars might do the service for free!
Expensive consumer cost for a obviously rushed product. Not acceptable
I can see it for many to be a deterrent from purchasing it, although I see the cost of repacking it a higher cause for many of us not to buy it. If I was doing track days every weekend, then yes I would likely go with the Astars simply because of the higher risk at track speeds. I don't need tech failing on the the street, a false deployment could startle some people and cause an accident. Imagine if your airbag in your car deploys without a crash? I think they're great for the track, but tethered seems more logical and cost affective for on street.
Daren Cummings
Hey Daren,
I’ve owned the race vest for 2 years come January next year I’ve hit some really big bumps dips in the road Power wheelies and have never had any deployment issues.
The 5 I’ve owned for a bit over 14 months same deal no deployment.
I think for track and street riding the race vest is the best option if you have techair compatible suit, jacket.
The 5 is a great idea plus it now has race and street firmware so you can swap from race to street using a app on you phone.
Bit the downside with the 5 is even in race mode it still fires 2 canisters where the race only fires one so you still have one deployment left.
It’s not cheap to get it repacked if you have a deployment but for me I only ride on the street and hopefully I will never need it but in the even at least I know it might save my bacon.
Jeff
If you didn't have a youtube channel Alpinestar wouldn't be this nice to the public
The one time I had to deal with Alpinestars in the US, they were super helpful and friendly.
He said they were not aware of the RUclips channel. It’s right in the video. Gotta watch to the end.
😂😂😂
My experience with them have been smooth, no issues
I was unsure. Did u have the newer software when it deployed, or the old version as they suggest?
Hey!
I am 7:39 minutes into the video and I just had a question about the vest. Does it not actually arm itself when you close it up? And those lights go on? Then, if you were to stop riding, and then unzip the west before getting off of the bike, then it couldn't deploy?
And I do understand this would be the same sort of "extra steps/extra hazzle" as a tether system of course. Just asking as a question.
I have used the hit air system tether cord and yes it went off a few times because I ride aggressive. Each time it worked and protected my neck and hip area. The best part, I carry a extra canister so I repacked it myself and put in a canister which cost me 25 bucks at the scene. So when riding home, I have an actual working air vest. I don't have to send it off, pay 300 bucks and wait for it to be shipped. What ever your preference is, its a good accessory to have.
I bought this vest today in Czech Republic, and according to the user manual, there are some specific actions to do or avoid.
Point number 1 says, deactivate the vest BEFORE getting of the bike.
It seems they have not figured out how to make in the algorithm…
I rode my bike today to work a forgot to turn off the airbag vest before getting if the bike.
Nothing happened, all is good. So it may happen, but did not happen to me today.
Glad it deployed too easily rather than not deply
Fantastic to get the update. Back in the days when I was riding on the street, if this tech. had been available, I would be hesitant for all the same reasons you mentioned. But ultimately, probably would have done it if the price was right. My street riding was not overly aggressive, so it should have been fine. Although, your movements that set this off could have just as easily occurred at a stop light and you stretching while waiting to move on. Dirt bikers/extreme off roaders should def. have some protection, but not air bags. Way too many movements that could scare it to going off when you are just making motions that you need to for the extreme terrain.
Total conjecture: My theory is the algo interpreted this as a rear end after coming to a stop (eg at a light). At ~1:17 in the source vid, looks like he's only just stopped, reaches up to turn off key, then dismounts in a fairly fluid motion. (not fast by any means but not slowly). I suspect the algo is more sensitive shortly after coming to a stop ) presumably getting rear ended more likely?
The rear end at a light is a concerning scenario for me. It's a reason I bought the electronic vs mechanical tether system. As mentioned, deploy at standstill is a key difference between street and race systems.
Besides making sure to check for updates, I'll now spend a bit of time sitting at stand still on bike before getting off. Good time to just sit in the bike and remove gloves, let the algo have some settle down time. Also, I'm definitely buying a camera. It could pay for itself with one airbag recharge fee.
Agree, the recharge fee is too high. A stars needs to be generous with freebies early on here.
what you say on 8:06 happens from time to time in racing, especially in Moto2 as there is not TCS, a lot of the times riders save that highside but sometimes the airbag goes off, however it then deflates and they can continue
Came here to comment the same thing. See it often.
Ill tell you, this doesent look good on Alpine Star. The evidence is on video. It inflated, when it shouldnt have. They admit to it. But, they turn it back on you for not doing a software up-date. Thats not right. They should be covering the re-packing. I wont be buying one from them and I like their gear.
And the cost of a repack is astronomical! On top of that you have to send it off
I can repack my Helite for 20bucks myself in just about 2min...
@@benghazi4216 yeah, I like the Helite for its cheap DIY cartridge replacement, but I just wish they came out with one that covers the shoulders (which is why I'm looking at the techair 5), cuz landing on the shoulders is common, and it could break bones.
@@gwot I had the same feeling, and thus will buy their new offroad vest they are testing on this years Dakar race.
It is what you are searching for.
Techair 5 is for me not an option since I'm not made of money (due to my frequent deployments)
300 bucks for every deployment would make me poor in a jiffy.
@@benghazi4216 oh yeah?! That sounds like good news, gonna look it up.
@@benghazi4216 after looking at some deployment videos and pictures, there's hardly any difference in terms of bag coverage. I wanted the outside shoulder (deltoid) coverage.
This is exactly why choose to avoid going with an electronic Airbag system. Too many variables to go wrong with electronics, and after all is said / done. You still have to send it back to them, hoping they won't charge you to reset the system and fix their errors.
$300 to recharge
Klim does one that you can refill yourself.
Alpinestars is beeing inconsequent here. First they say : "it does not appear so, as the update would have prevented this from happening". Then at the end of the letter they say"with the updated software, you can rest assured this will not happen again" ? that simply does not make sense to me.
They are blaming him for not updating the software. They must have accessed his account and seen what software version he had installed last in his vest.
@@kalel33 right and are offering to update the software when they repack and recharge the vest. Looks legit to me!
I have a Dainese smart jacket. I'm considering changing over to the tech air 5 because of the coverage it has over the Dainese. One concern is that I can't find anywhere whether it is weather resistant at all. The Dainese specifically states that it can be used in the rain, inside or outside of your jacket. I've emailed Alpinestars but haven't heard back yet.
One thing to remember with these is that they are using AI to detect whether it's a crash or not. Every deployment that happens the data goes back to them when you send it in for a repack. I look regularly for updates and there's been at least 5 that I've owned the smart jacket. So your false deployment will go in there as well. To get the maximum benefit from these air bag vests you need to regularly update - which is what Alpinestars told you. An update was out 7 months before your deployment and from their response it looks like this was a known issue that they fixed with the software update.
They are working out kinks in new tech, it’s worth it. Free reset also is great. Can you turn it off when you dismount? I just got the tech air 10 hope it’s worth it
The notion that if you have a tether clipped on to your bike and you get off if it and it will deploy is false- it take a considerable amount of force to rip that tether cord- getting off a bike and forgetting it’s there won’t do it.
Yikes that will hurt alpinestars sales now. But it takes trial and error for the technology to improve. I like the old tethered system. Analog is very reliable there is less stuff to go wrong.
Thanks for the followup on the vest situation.
I'm glad to hear that Alpinestars repacked the jacket for free, and updated it to the latest software.
Quick question:
Does Alpinestars offer updates that you can do to the vest yourself?
I have the Dainese D-Air Smart Jacket, and that is one advantage that I know it has.
Whenever there is a software update available, I can upload it to the jacket as I am charging it up from my computer.
Yes, you can hook into the vest with the supplied USB charging cable and update via A-stars tech-air portal.
"got off the bike too aggressively." LOL
I have the same Tech-Air 5, and I always keep an eye for any updates. I also watch the charge level during the winter here in NJ where I'm not using it. I let it drain down, then charge it back up to full.
During this past Summer I used it for several rides without charging, and it maintained a good 80% 70%. once it gets down to about 45% I re-charge it.
I also have a Helite Leather Vest, But the sizing is a bit tight..(My Fault) , but it also give a feeling of security.
I get off my bike like that all the time!
It probably didn't have good enough algorithm, because it deemed the getting off turn around as beyond the movement a recovery would have on a bike (typically you aren't going to 180).
It does seem like the kind of accidental setoff that is solvable by training it to recognize those patterns, especially at zero momentum.
Nice Speed Twin u got there......i totaled mine in the same color 8000km in^^ Now got a Matt Storm Grey one which is rockin 25000km so far ;)
Bro there was a software update that you didn’t bother to do. I check mine weekly to see if there are any updates. Upkeep is on you. As with any technology it’s going to improve with time.
My Helite Turtle 2 has deployed twice now. The first time I slipped back getting off the bike with bike on side stand and the second time was on a small stationary tip over when i was backing up the bike and my boot slipped on some gravel. In both cases it was annoying that they deployed but it has never deployed from just walking away from the bike.
Just came across this. Worse than the faulty release is the fact that you cannot get it serviced yourself- Helite‘s e-turtle vest can be recharged by the user in 1 min! And that multiple times if necessary. I upgraded to the electronic vest as soon as it came out last year. A friend had an accidental release like you - Helite recalled all vests - updated the software at no charge. Also his new cartridge was on Helite - he did not have to pay anything. Just saying 😉
Definitely faulty software and should not have went off! It the airbag goes off while you’re riding you certainly may go down. I hope they have a good insurance company in case someone dies because their airbag went off.
The system is designed to be non restrictive when deployed and I can tell you from experience you can not tell it’s gone off in the moment of a wreck or a near miss incident. I highly doubt it will cause a wreck, but you will be very glad to be wearing one if you do go down.
Alex, Thanks so much for the review. Have you seen the new system from Helite called eTurtle? Looks like it may have been available for a short time in other countries. They’re targeting 2021 for USA according to an email from their rep. Have you tried the Klim system? A comparo video would be great.
Great report Alex. You had a video of the deployment but did Alpinestars also have black box data from your suit to see exactly what g-forces triggered the airbag? It seems that early adopters like you are beta testing these suits. Seems to me that Alpinestars should absorb the repacking fee for undamaged (no road rash) suits.
Near the end of the video, he said that Alpinestars agreed to repack the jacket for free.
I'm not sure if he had already sent it to them, or if it was just emails exchanged back and forth before the jacket was sent, however.
I'm just that when they do have it in house for repairs and updates that they will check out whatever the software can provide.
@@windyrun7979 Start playing the video at 11:27.
Man, glad you got that on video!
I would have requested a brand new vest. This looks more like a product defect. This is a very common motion. If it truly was just an algorithm issue, I would think this would have happened before. How many times did Alex previously get on and off the bike using the same motion? This seems kind of random to me.
There is no way there is a manufacturing defect that caused this. It's not run by a mechanical system. What you're talking about is like asking Microsoft for a new copy of Windows because you think your copy is bad.
Hi. Thanks for sharing your experience with the inflatable vest. I wanted to know if you think there is enough protection for the neck when falling off the motorcycle?
Guess RUclips recommended me this video because I was searching for an airbag :) I really like the Tech Air 5 system (really big fan of Alpinestars), but the fact that you have to send it back if it deploys and costs quite a lot to have it serviced makes me think that Helite would be a better option. If only they would have adopted the Helite approach - self service/reload 3 times before sending it for service would have made Tech Air 5 a sure choice. They could have made the reload cartridges even a little bit more expensive (because, as any company, they are looking to make a profit), and that I think that would have been ok.
My thoughts- this would have turned out differently had you not gotten the bag deployment on camera. Regardless of them knowing about Your RUclips channel once you had documentation they were subject to having this exposed on motorcycle forums, Facebook, etc. This is definitely not a technology I’m going to be adopting anytime soon.
I'm guess this is on him. They replied that the updated software would keep this from happening and I bet they looked at his account and knew exactly what software version he had installed at the time.
@@kalel33it should be automatic updates whenever on wifi like other ones do like Klim.
@@kalel33that’s 100% correct yet they STILL repacked and updated the software and jacket for free and he complains. My Ducati traction control let go once, I didn’t get the ECU updated and that is why it let go, that’s software, issues happen from time to time and they need to fix them, I mean, iPhone ring a bell for updates after updates
Great video awesome info and story!
I’m not a street person what so ever I’m a dirt guy by choice but with airbag tech becoming more prevalent and more common I feel like this is from a computer mistaking your dismount for a mid speed fall and for a street system that seems like it would be a good thing and from the support side from Astars I think they did a great job at trying to keep you the costumer happy and it probably did help that you did catch it on video
Yeah, I think I'll go with a tethered system.
I've seen race variants not deploy on the local track, multiple times, and have seen a couple of occurrences like the one described here.
This seems to offer the most protection, yet seems to do a rather poor job at head/helmet support.
The race variant on race mode does intentionally not deploy under 60mph. Its in the INSTRUCTIONS... People just dont read those
This is exactly why i prefer a tethered system. I have forgot to detach numerus times and has not yet been able to falsly set it of.
It requires a pull of 70kg to go of. You will not pull that hard on the tether unless you fall or have an accident.
I think its easier to remember to connect my west too the bike than wonder when I charged the batteries the last time and I consider my self to be a tech nerd.
And having to deal with software updates. REALY?
Mine didn't deploy when I crashed. 25mph ish near Mulholland. I asked them what some possible causes are. They never got back to me. Will try again. I'm just confused, because I see these things deploy all the time on Moto GP. Maybe there's just too many variables on the the street for the algorithms, and they just don't have it all figured out.
Did you hurt yourself? I just got the analog Spidi vest with a tether.
@@ninja1970fin My helmet cracked, got a new one. Some minor headaches for a couple weeks. Shoulder armor damaged, but no real injuries. I have helite analog as well. I crashed hard in that one before. Saved me from serious injuries. Let me know how the spidi one is.
@@MotoRenaissance thanks. I take it you are fine now, good! The Spidi is pretty much the same as Hit-Air, infact they do collaboration. It is still snowing so it will take some time before Im driving with it on my zx6r but stationary it feels really good! Better than Helite Turtle 2.
Looks like it went off when your right foot hit the ground. I suspect it was the sudden force of your foot’s impact vibrating through your body. If it was the twisting, wouldn’t it have gone off earlier?
I own both Helite and Hitair tethered versions. I set the Helite one off on an off-road low side.
I think there are advantages to both kinds. The tether is simple and cheap to reuse, but requires you to remember to connect it and does less in a low side. The electronic ones have to be charged and depend on math rather than simple physics to go off.
It is almost impossible to set off the tethered ones just getting off your bike. It takes a sudden impact of 60 pounds. You feel a tug and it reminds you to unhook.
Not to be that guy but input is invalid due to the fact that there was a software update that prevented that from happening again
In the airbag's defence: you did a full 180 while coming off. I'm not saying, it should deploy in this situation, but I'm saying I see the point why it does. You got up, did a 180 so fast, it thought you were airborne. Once again: I'm not saying, this should happen. I'm saying, I hardly see a situation while riding that one does a 180 this quick and is in control of the bike (other than stunt riders maybe, but this isn't for them).
After watching what happened what’s the problem? You want it to work. You got off the bike with authority while spinning which sent the gyro. Which caused the bag to go. Which would have been wonderful for an emergency. Seeing this made me want one
go with a helite airbag. they make electric ones, i believe they are the best even in safety. also a helite tether needs 30kg (60 pounds i think) of force to activate so stepping of and forgetting would need much more force than that twist.
I wouldn't change a thing on that airbag. It did its job. Maybe next time you won't twist off your bike when you dismount it. I want my airbag to go off in that kind of scenario. Having said that I would consider a tether airbag vest if it had the shoulder protection that the tech air five does. None of the other airbags have that protection.
I just watched your video of the airvest deploying. I am curious as to if you are still riding with it and also has it deployed again. Also if you are still riding with it have you become comfortable with it again. I imagine for the first few rides or weeks you may have been a bit hesitant about your movements while wearing it.
And what will happen if at a speed of 200-250km \ hour with an airbag running, they will then return the money to me for the purchased item and for the broken BMW s1000rr motorcycle of the fourth generation?
Why do you think your airbag is going to deploy at 155 mph?
Why are you twirling off of your motorcycle while you are riding at 155 mph?
Where exactly are you riding your motorcycle at while riding at 155 mph?
@@bladecutter1 якщо ти не знаєш де можна їхати з такою швидкістю це твої проблеми! Я запитав що буде якщо він спрацює на швидкості 200 250?
What a stupid question. Unless you are on a track, you are a danger to everyone on the road at 200+ kph. Even at anything over 120in my area. Maybe you live near the sections of the autobahn where this is still legal, but I don’t get that impression. Ya lose your bike at those speeds in the highway, I don’t thing you deserve to get it, or your license back, EVER!
I think I prefer the tether version. A back and chest protector won't give the same level of protection. Especially for the neck, so an airbag is a good idea. I just have to remember that it has a tether so I don't get off my bike and set it off.
With the force needed to set off a tethered vest you would have to fall off your bike to trigger it. And, if by chance you do accidently trigger a tethered vest it's quick and cheap to reset the vest and can be done by you.
@@Zookeeper101 Exactly. A friend and I are heading up to Vanson this winter to get fitted for new race suits with the airbags.
Wow bro!!! Glad youre ok... great video amd review.
He wasn't in any danger at any point. This comment is pointless 🙄
Hi Alex, Did Alpinestars fore warn you of the need to update your vest Software Prior to your incident ?
If not it would seem they bear the responsibility to Recharge your vest at their expense !
Go with a tether system. You might have one mishap and thats it. Ive never forgot mine and my memory is terrible
Great video!
Why don't you retry the same motion with the updated airbag?
Who man! When this is happening when your riding it's very dangerous I think. I definitely takes the wired option because you don't forget the lanyard attached to your bike because it becomes a habit. Thanks for this useful video!
I've had my Helite for 5 years, but I still forget I'm tethered when I get off every now and then. However, it takes quite a bit of pressure to get it to release so I've never had it deploy
Tether ones if you forget to unclip won't just deploy if you get off your bike. It take 60lbs of force
i dont think it was a 'twist' that caused the deployment. When you stepped off the bike, you stomped your left foot. You simulated a crash at that moment. example; You were moving, moving , moving, THEN impacted the ground, aka Stomped your foot. The vest worked as designed.
Pogledao sam ovaj video na vrijeme.
Hvala.
I've noticed that the air bag is completely messy inside the vest.
I didn't find any guidance in the user guide so I will be grateful if you can advice how to e-organize and connect the airbag inside the vest.
Thanks.
I have one of these... AS does not notify my of updates which seems like a really bad idea. Every user has to have an account and register their suit #, etc.
I wouldn’t mind trying the airbag system. It’s just a bit steep of a price for me right now.
I have at last got my Ducati Diavel into the country I am now just waiting for it to get unloaded and shipped to the dealer, Only been waiting for 6 months lol but then this is NZ. I was looking into this system however given its over pricing and tech failures I shall be going for alternatives. NO aspect of critical safety should be dependent on a 'software update' to this degree. It staggers me they replied in such a lousy way. Thanks for saving me the bother.
Have wanted an airbag vest but this type of stuff makes me think it needs a few more years of refinement before I can spend that type of money. Don't know if I missed it but doesn't Aplinestars have a monthly subscription to use the airbag?
Thanks for sharing your experience! Appreciate it.
No subscription required for the tech air. Thats a different one though its cheaper up front to buy and then monthly payments. I think they now (klim?) have an option where you pay the full higher cost up front and no subscription fee.
Helite is a much better option.
You can repack it yourself in 2min, and the tethered one for 20bucks. I'm not sure how much it costs for their e-vest. But it's in the same ballpark.
did you have to pay for de reload anyway ?
you should be happy that it was a false positive rather than a false negative. With an algo system like this you need to understand that there will be outliers and the fact that they erred on the false positive is actually reassuring.
I’d marry the love-child of Dainese D|Air and Alpinestars vests:
In July, my 2020 Alpinestars TechAir Race didn’t deploy when I flew over the bars at 80 km/h on a tight technical racetrack. I’m still on disability recovering.
Dainese algorithms appear more forgiving, w highside deployment threshold at 50kmh instead of Alpinestars TechAir Race’s 100kmh
While Dainese might have deployed in my July off, the coverage is much less than the AlpineStars.
Fellow racers & coached won’t go out on-track without their Hit-Air.
A couple of racers run Dainese D|Air with Hit-Air on top.
Bubble wrap much safer.
lol
^ What I do
Good video Alex. I wear an Hit-Air airbag vest with a tether and that would never happen since it takes 70 pounds of pressure to trigger it...
A little spooky to see this.
Alpinestars do some good products but I prefer put my faith on the hands of a tether than an algorithm.
Cheers
🤓🙏
So did they fix it for free, or not? Did I miss that? I just saw the e-mail with their response and no real answer.
I am thinking the KLIM might be better now that the algorithms misread you getting off off your bike too fast. This is why that the service plan has regular updates in the service plan that come out monthly.
Next. KLIM and similar titheless vests are only around $100 to reinsert an air canister that you can do yourself. Saving you around $200 dollars on the refill.
The KLIM has abrasion basic rating without the need for an extra jacket.
But lest face it,, the KLIM is a racket due to the fact that it does NOT come with any way to use it without signing up with the $120 entrance service plan FIRST!! On top of that you pay a $20 per month extra update charge for the service. Even if you are a seasonal rider, too bad for you!
On the positive side,, you have a more compact vest on the Tech 5 and you can ware it under any other jacket without binding up your air bag vest function due to a smaller outwear jacket.
The KLIM is updated using an APP on your phone and you never know if it gets shut off if your payment is late or something went wrong in your bank auto withdrawal that you KLIM vest is using for your update payments.
Bottom line?
Even a tether air bag vest is better than nothing.
Thanks
The alpinestars airbag vest I bought came with the center clasp half torn off, wouldn't pair with the app at all, and refused to fully charge. *NO* real help from Alpinestars AT ALL. When I called their company, all I got was "I'm not answering your question. Call back tomorrow." Returned that thing QUICKLY.
It would be cool to get the data from the Airbag Sensors. Maybe it would be a good idea on adding a device that tells the airbag if your stand is up or not. I also think they don't have a gps in there cause they would have seen that this motion has not enough force to injur you. But i need to say from a technical point of view this stuff isn't that easy to implement.
Hi there! Can you use a back bag while using it?
Alpinestars typical response from my experience. Unless they issued a recall for that defective software on that thing they sold you, I'd file a NHTSA or CPSC complaint/report. It failed to provide its basic function during its intended lifetime without a major service that would not have been needed without their screw up. Thanks for the video, I'll add Alpinestars to the long (sadly) list of companies that I will think long and hard about before making a purchase.
It says they had an update for this very reason, unfortunately Alex missed it. They still repacked the bag for free. Other commenters on the post state the update Alex needed was out 7 months before the incident happened.
I don’t blame Alex directly, I don’t know all of the details. What I do know if the details, shows that Alpinestar were on top of this and even though they didn’t have to repackage the airbag as the update already existed, they did so for free and updated his vest to current specs. Don’t really see an issue here. Ya just have to make sure you stay up to date with your product as an owner.
I don’t own one but am seriously considering it. I have full protection the old school way with Belstaff products. I ride a Ryker Rally, so was of the idea that maybe I don’t need an airbag, but a recent local rider was in an accident that has made me think twice.
@@shitloveaduck The update you mention is in the video at 6:26. There was nothing to miss, because Alpinestars didn't contact Alex with a notification of their defective software or any other recall. He only found out after the defective product inadvertently deployed and he contacted them. In no way do I see Alpinestars as "on top of this". Now if we found out that Alex failed to register his product when new, or ignored recall or safety notices ... that would be a different story.
If you buy one of these things are you going to check for a software update every day before you ride? I really do hope it it works out and it helps you if you need it. I don't mind the "it is firmware updateable" beta testing/marketing technology cycle when it is my action cam or my 3d printer. It is a different story when we are dealing with direct safety items.
I bought some Alpinestars off-road gear just this morning, so your comment was timely (and apparently my memory is short). Stay safe.
@@adaycj - you are one of those guys, see the responsibility to stay on top of the updates is on the owner of the vest. Called taking on the responsibility yourself. It’s implied but you are someone who needs to be spoon fed. I have wasted enough time on you. Calm down,,,,,,,,,
@@shitloveaduck Who isn't calm? You commented on a 4 month old video under a 4 month old comment. You offered a belated rebuttal. If you can't handle a different point of view I'm not sure why you posted an opposing view to my comment anyway. Were you just looking to have the last word?
Some advice you didn't ask for: Don't assign made up traits to a person when you don't like their point of view. Maybe we should put a Holley on it?
@@adaycj - I’m still calm. I don’t find people who chose to always point the blame on the corporations, neighbours, and anywhere else but to accept responsibilities for themselves. You read too much into what I said. Bye.
More air flow? Not true i gave mine back as it was hot and also deployed for no reason
Best way to prevent it is to release the fastener when you stopped and gonna get off from the bike no?
Mechanical tether every time for me just my preference, also the neck doesn’t seem as protected with this system……Shocking when the thing just explodes on you randomly that would certainly wake you up fast 😂
I didn't hear you say if they covered the cost or not
play the last 2 min of video..... its there!
This is one of my concerns
do you need to pay for sub in order to use theAlpinestars Tech-Air 5 System?
I love the idea of this thing but I am 100% sure I’d stink it up to high heavens after a ride or two in the summer, esp since it’s guaranteed to make me sweat even more. I watched the Alpinestars “cleaning” instruction video and it was silly. “Use a damp microfiber cloth”. Uh, right, that will get rid of my stank 🙄. Have you experienced horrible BO building up in the Tech-Air 5?
Also, I assume part of the trade-off with wearing this is you remove the back and shoulder armor from whatever jacket you wear over it, right? Seems like it would be super bulky otherwise. Have you also been removing your elbow armor and rolling the dice there?
I agree your accidental deployment is goofy. You didn’t make any particularly violent movements. And yours is not the only case, based on some other reviews (one dude just rode over a bump in the road, and not a particularly bad one). But I guess that’s the nature of “AI” and “algorithms”, they are based on statistics and training and can only account for what they’ve encountered before. Hopefully the firmware update solved the issue.
You need to do two different videos on each airbag vest
I’m late I’m a new rider. I want to get one of these jackets but is it better a year later and is it worth it since they came out recently with a new suit system. Please help me with my purchase
I've been riding since 1986, It's been 11 months since you posted this. $750.00 for safety 1 and done. Your life is worth saving. New systems are always trial and error in real world environment, there is going to be advancements as time progresses. I believe if you ask to have a free repack they may have understood the issue because of the expense and error. They admitted to you not getting an update or were you notified and not aware. After all a safety measure is addressed. It's all about safety, and honestly you could have left that scene and something traumatic may have happened that the device may have not been able save you from the error. Twisting motions are always happening when coming off a bike, fast or slow. We are talking impact and "dramatic" motion. Another words sudden impact or striking motion. I do not think your actions on the video is either.