Kevlar

AGV Spots Group products are designed “by riders for riders,” which means that they know what motorcycle enthusiasts want.  They know that most riders want the ultimate in protection so that they can stay safe. On the other hand, there are days when riders would prefer gear that looks casual and can be worn comfortably.   

The AGV Sports line of denim jeans that utilize Kevlar panels are perfect for these situations.  The Assault, Excursion, Midnight, and Shadow fit and look like a normal pair of jeans when off the bike, and they also feature Kevlar panels to keep the rider safe on the bike.

The story behind Kevlar is actually quite interesting. It was discovered by Stephanie Kwolek in anticipation of a gasoline shortage in 1964. At the time Kwolek was working for DuPont, and researching a new light yet strong fiber to use for fuel efficient tires.  After only six years of further research and designs changes, Kevlar was introduced to the world in 1971.

Kevlar currently has hundreds of applications, however there are some that are a bit more relevant to most people’s everyday lives.  Kevlar actually lines the inner tubing of the majority of bicycle tires in order to prevent puncturing.  The synthetic is also used in an abundance of protective Army gear, such as helmets, gloves, vests, and vehicle armor. Kevlar vests can even protect the user from multiple knife attacks. 

The synthetic also provides homeland security agents with protection against chemical and biological germs.  Most importantly, for motorcycle riders at least, Kevlar is used in protective clothing.  As mentioned before all four pairs of AGVPOSRT denim jeans utilize Kevlar panels to provide protection against tearing and abrasion.

Kevlar is so useful in motorcycle safety apparel because it is playable and can form to the rider’s body. It is also used because of its high tensile strength-to-weight ratio. Basically, this means that Kevlar is strong, really strong, like five times stronger than medal.

History of AGV Helmets

AGV is an acronym for Amisano Gino Valenza, the initials of the founder AGV Helmets, which is one of the most respected manufactures of on and off-road helmets. The company was first introduced to the world in 1946, but at that time they were manufacturing bicycle saddles and leather seats.  Only two years later the company entered into the helmet manufacturing market. 

In only their second year of operation, AGV Helmets introduced the first open-face helmet with a leather shell. In 1953, the first fiberglass vulcanized helmets were brought to the market.  The company’s next big innovation came only one year later, in the form of the first 100% fiberglass open-face helmet. The development of the open-face helmet ultimately lead to the creation of the first fiberglass full-face helmet. Although innovation within manufacturing is the company’s ultimate goal, they were also fully committed to giving back to the motorcycle community.  In 1977, they funded the “Clinica Mobile,” which provides care to riders who have been injured while racing. More than 30 years later, the “traveling Hospital” is still providing excellent care to injured riders.

In 1985, Nelson Piquet raced the Formula 1 World Championship sporting a brand new Kevlar/Dupont fiberglass full-face AGV helmet. At this point in time AGV Helmets was looking to expand into additional markets. They accomplished this with the acquisition of MDS, which was a brand that quickly gained popularity based on its versatility.  In 1995, Valentino Rossi began wearing AGV Helmets on his way to winning seven World Championship Titles. This relationship provided AGV Helmets with a great ambassador to World Championship motorcycling racing.

In 2002 AGV Helmets became part the IMAG group, which is the fourth largest worldwide producer of helmets.  AGV Helmets last major merger came in 2007, when they combined with the world famous Dainese.

AGV Sport designs and develops motorcycle safety apparel for racing and street. Leather suits, textile jackets, gloves, and boots - from sport to high quality AGVSPORT custom made 1 piece racing suits.

AGV Sport Tempest Jacket Review

One of the first things you will notice about AGV Sports Tempest Textile Jacket is that the quality is much higher than you would expect from a jacket at its price. This jacket is also very comfortable when in the riding position. Accordion style pleats are incorporated into the elbows, shoulders, and back for increased mobility.

The AGVSPORT tempest does not have a removable liner; instead the water resistant Reissa membrane is sewn into the shell. Although the membrane does not make the jacket 100% waterproof in torrential downpours, it will keep the rider dry in periods of light to moderate rain. 

Another nice feature of the Tempest is the insulated liner, which really does keep a rider warm in cooler conditions. As the temperatures begin to rise throughout the day the liner can be easily removed and stored in a backpack. While on the subject of warmer temperatures AGV Sports Tempest Textile Jacket is well ventilated, and the mesh lining is great for temperatures in the 80’s and 90’s. 

As with all AGVSPORT products the Tempest was built with performance and protection in mind. This jacket includes well shaped CE-approved dual-density elbow and shoulder protection. The backside also includes a pocket that comes with an 8 mm back foam protector. If you are not a huge fan of the back protector it can be easily removed. 

Another feature the Tempest has is a zipper attachment in the rear that is designed to fit the AGV Sport Telluride pants. Overall, the Tempest is a really well designed practical jacket.  It will work in a wide range of temperatures and provide a good fit at the same time. Between everything mentioned above and the $200 price tag; the Tempest is a great value.