Alpinestars introduces the Tech-Air MX Airbag System, “groundbreaking” autonomous airbag inside body armour for rapid deployment to protect the rider’s shoulders, chest, and back for motocross and off-road including enduro.

We’ve seen airbag systems in motorcycle racing for a number of years now, since the early 2000s in fact. They’re mandatory in MotoGP and Rally world championship racing, and have become common place in those sports at lower levels as the technology became accessible to regular riders.

The airbag jackets used by the riders at the Dakar Rally have also filtered down into Adventure riding where they are proving popular with those who can afford it.

But we have never seen a practical and lighter weight solution for off-road where more active and intense riding rules out any of the bulkier systems on the market.

Until now as Alpinestars launch the Tech-Air MX Airbag System which is 10 years in the making and developed in collaboration with MX and Supercross riders.

Not just for MX riders

But don’t be put off by the lack of lights and all the 19-inch rear wheels used in the development, Alpinestars say the Tech-Air MX isn’t limited to the short-circuit, moto guys and girls as it comes with different riding modes to use in MX, Enduro and Rally.

How it works

Alpinestars say the Tech-Air MX provides upper body protection in a compact chest protector that comes with an autonomous Airbag System embedded inside. Designed to be worn as a standard part of a rider’s kit, over or under the jersey, the system is a fully autonomous, industry-leading Airbag System equipped with six integrated sensors (one triaxial accelerometer and one triaxial gyroscope).

The sensors monitor rider movements in real-time, transmitting data to the system’s computer every millisecond—1,000 times per second. Developed and analysed through thousands of hours of riding and crash data, the algorithm determines when to deploy the airbag before an impact or dangerous riding event.

82% reduction in transmitted energy

When a crash event is detected, the Airbag System deploys within 28 to 37 milliseconds, depending on the chest protector size (small to large). The inflated airbag provides impact absorption equivalent to a claimed 82% reduction in transmitted energy compared to conventional passive chest protectors.

The shoulder zones are also protected during deployment, even though in the riding configuration no passive protection elements are present in those areas, allowing full range of motion without restriction under normal riding conditions.

Customisable riding modes

Tech-Air MX comes preloaded with a dedicated MX Mode for motocross tracks. Additionally, it offers two customizable modes—MY RIDE 1 and MY RIDE 2—configurable via the Tech-Air App.

Riders can select from four riding modes (the default MX mode, or MX Race, Enduro, and Rally) tailored to specific disciplines, each with algorithms fine-tuned for crash detection in varied conditions. Riding Modes can be switched effortlessly using the LED display button or the app, providing flexibility for different riding scenarios.

“I’ve been testing the Tech-Air® MX, and it’s a massive step forward. It’s so comfortable you barely notice it, but the added protection is a huge boost for rider safety. This is the future of motocross gear.” Jeffrey Herlings.

“Looking at it from the point of view as a team manager, of course you don't want your riders to get hurt, so maximum protection is what you're looking for. Now I'm really happy with the evolution of the airbag and my son, even if he's only racing on national amateur level, will not ride without it, that's for sure.” Joel Smets, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager

Easy gas inflator replacement

The System includes a quick-release cover for easy gas inflator replacement, with certification for up to six deployments before requiring service, assuming no damage to the airbag.

Tech-Air App and Software Updates

Bluetooth connectivity enables software updates via the Tech-Air App, which also allows riders to monitor system status, battery life, and ride data through Google Maps integration (subject to network coverage). A fully charged battery supports approximately 30 hours of active ride time, with an integrated LED display showing operational status, battery life, and selected Riding Mode.

The Tech-Air MX provides CE L1 passive protection for the chest and back, with CE L1 active protection on the back when the airbag is deployed. Certified to Category II of the 686/89/EEC European PPE Directive and EN1621-4:2013, the System guarantees impact protection within 40 milliseconds to 5 seconds of full-pressure inflation, covering the rider’s shoulders, chest, and back.

Cost: $689.95/£569.99/€599.95

Sizes: S/M/L/XL/XXL (Note, a check look by us revealed not all sizes are currently available depending on your country)

The Tech-Air MX Airbag System available online at www.alpinestars.com and at Alpinestars dealers.