For years, motorcycle enthusiasts have often criticized cruiser riders for opting for just a vest instead of a full-armor jacket, arguing that vests lack the necessary protection in the event of a crash. Indeed, sleeves, elbow, and shoulder padding are crucial for high-speed falls. However, Harley-Davidson’s latest innovation promises to address these concerns. Introducing the Harley-Davidson Smart Vest, equipped with Dainese’s advanced D-air technology, this vest could potentially be a game-changer for rider safety.
The Harley-Davidson Smart Vest features built-in sensors that detect a crash and deploy an airbag to protect the chest and center back areas. This advanced technology aims to absorb impact forces that could otherwise result in serious injury or death.
The vest is powered by a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 26 hours and can be charged via USB. Harley-Davidson notes that the vest can be worn either over or under a riding jacket. If worn underneath, it should be positioned with at least two inches of space around it to allow for proper inflation.
Unlike earlier airbag systems that required a tether to the motorcycle, this vest operates independently. It features an indicator light on the left chest that displays the battery status and readiness to deploy. When the vest is zipped and the snap-tab power switch is secured, the light will flash blue, and the vest will vibrate to signal that it’s active. The airbag will deploy if the vest detects the vibrations of a running engine or speeds exceeding 6.2 mph (10 kph), but not if the rider simply trips and falls.
In the event of an airbag deployment, the vest must be returned to a dealer for recharging. Although Dainese has long been a leader in airbag technology, this vest is tailored specifically for cruiser riders, a demographic that may have previously overlooked such tech due to its sportier associations.
The Harley-Davidson Smart Vest is available in both men’s and women’s sizes, featuring zipper handwarmer pockets, black reflective material, and the iconic Harley-Davidson branding on the back.