Here is why you should buy Alpinestars Tech-Air Airbag system

Motorcycles and riding them is usually associated with positive emotions for people who enjoy the activity. It's a great feeling to twist that throttle, regardless of your riding style. However, there is one very dark side of motorcycling that is rarely talked about. Injuries. Pain. Tragic loss of your loved ones. Death.

Since my life revolves around motorcycles 24/7, I have a grim picture of that reality. It's scary how many people get hurt doing what we all love to do.

Our customers always ask about the safest options. I always respond it's staying home. Now we all know that giving up riding is not an option, so we need to do our best to minimize the risks associated with motorcycling.

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of visiting the Alpinestars headquarters and getting a demo of their Tech-Air in-suit airbag system. It was an eye-opening experience. I was so impressed with what I saw, that Beach Moto is now a proud Alpinestars Tech Air dealer.

Air dealer.

How Does it Feel?

If you have ever been in a car crash, you may know that the airbag exploding in your face can be a painful experience. When I tried a test-run of the Tech-Air airbag system, I was ready for a similar sensation. But despite my concerns, when the airbag went off, it didn't hurt at all.

It was loud, and I felt a reassuring pressure pretty much all over my upper body. This was the most surprising aspect of the experience. I expected it to inflate mainly around my shoulders and collarbone area, but it wrapped my entire torso. In the blink of an eye, I felt like I was surrounded by a 2-inch concrete cocoon. It was rock hard and stayed fully inflated for a while.

And all I could think of at that moment was if my friend who died from chest trauma after a car flipped a U-turn in front of him had been wearing one, he would still be alive. It was a powerful moment that instantly sold me on the technology. 

 How Does it Work?

The Tech-Air airbag system uses sensors to detect a crash. Once a crash has been detected, Argon inflator cartridges are deployed to inflate the airbags. The airbags get fully inflated in 25 milliseconds. To give you a perspective on how fast that is, think of this—it takes us about 300 to 400 milliseconds to blink. So the airbags deploy 16 times faster than the blink of an eye!

Not only do the algorithms detect a crash impact while moving but while stationary as well. So if you happen to get rear-ended at a red light, the airbag will be fully inflated even before you get hit.

Other things you may want to know

• Tech-Air is completely independent of your motorcycle. No sensors or tethers required. It's armed once you zip your jacket.
• Tech-Air is sold separately from Tech Air compatible jackets and suits, and there are several options to choose from.
• Tech-Air needs to be charged, but a single charge lasts up to 25 hours of continuous use.
• In the unfortunate case where you get to experience it, the Tech Air can be recharged for about $300.
• Although new to the public, Tech-Air has been used in MotoGP since 2009. The system has been tested in over 2,000 crashes with a 100% success rate in airbags deploying as intended and zero false deployments.

Why I think everyone should get on board with Tech-Air

There is a reason all modern cars come equipped with airbags. Also, there is a reason that starting in 2018 airbags will be a requirement in Moto GP. Plain and simple—the system works. It's by far the best way to decrease your chances of a serious injury or worse.

Now let’s tackle the main argument we know we’ll get from people regarding Tech-Air, the cost. Alpinestars Tech-Air vest costs $1,149.95. And you need to buy a jacket. At first, it may seem like a lot of money. However, we insist it's dirt cheap.

If you spend a day in a hospital ICU, how much would you pay not to have to? What amount would a paraplegic pay to be able to walk again? How much would your friend pay not to get killed by a car making a left turn? What is it worth to come home and hug your family? That's right. It's way more than $1,150. Tech Air is not a fancy gadget. It serves one purpose—to make sure your loved ones don't have to endure losing you.

So, start saving up! Do what you have to do—launch a GoFundMe campaign and send it to your loved ones or charge it on your credit card because it’s one of the few purchases worth the additional debt. Ask your mom for help. We are believers—Tech-Air works, and it saves lives. All our friends will be buying one because we will make them. 

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