In an age when the pursuit of the open road is an all-season affair, the rider is no longer resigned to surrendering to the bitter cold. The Gerbing 7V Battery Heated Flannel Shirt is a marvel of contemporary design, a bold synthesis of casual style and sophisticated technology.
This is a portable source of warmth, a discreet and effective tool for those who extend their riding season well into the colder months, or simply endure the chill of an early morning departure.
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Construction and Heating Technology
At the core of this flannel’s remarkable performance is Gerbing’s patented Microwire heating technology. It’s not like other flannels. This system consists of thousands of conductive filaments, a fraction of the thickness of a human hair, strategically woven into the fabric.
The flannel is equipped with three Microwire heating zones: two on the chest and one on the back, a strategic layout designed to provide core warmth where it is needed most. Powering this system is a rechargeable 7V lithium-ion battery, a self-contained power source that grants the rider complete freedom from a direct connection to their machine.
The shirt’s outer shell is a durable premium cotton, providing a classic flannel aesthetic, while its inner liner is a breathable mesh. This combination allows for a comfortable fit that can be worn either as a mid-layer or as a standalone piece.
The flannel also features under-arm vents, a thoughtful addition that provides a measure of climate control for comfort in changing conditions. The garment is designed to attach to one’s belt or pants, a clever feature that prevents it from lifting during a ride.
Functional Features and Specifications
The Gerbing 7V Flannel is replete with functional features that belie its simple appearance.
- Integrated Battery Controller: The shirt includes a battery-integrated temperature controller with a simple push-button operation. This control, often located on the chest, allows the rider to adjust the heat output to their precise needs without fumbling for a separate controller.
- Adjustable Heat Settings: The 7V battery system offers four distinct heat settings, allowing the rider to fine-tune their level of warmth:
- 100% (High): 2 hours of continuous heat.
- 75% (Medium): 3 hours of continuous heat.
- 50% (Low): 5 hours of continuous heat.
- 25% (Ultra-Low): 8 hours of continuous heat.
- Added Protection: While not a dedicated piece of armored gear, the shirt includes armor pockets at the shoulders, elbows, and back, providing the option to install separate armor for a heightened level of impact protection.
The Ledger of Advantages and Disadvantages
For the dedicated rider, the Gerbing 7V Flannel presents a compelling set of advantages.
Pros
- Wireless Freedom: The self-contained battery system provides a high degree of mobility, allowing the shirt to be used on and off the machine.
- Effective Heating: The Microwire technology delivers consistent and even heat to critical areas, keeping the core warm and comfortable in cold conditions.
- Versatility: The shirt’s casual flannel appearance and ability to be worn as a mid-layer make it a highly versatile piece of gear.
- Lightweight: It offers warmth without the bulk of heavy layers, making it a comfortable alternative to more cumbersome cold-weather apparel.
A complete assessment must also acknowledge a few considerations.
Cons
- Heating Area: Some riders note that the heating elements are confined to the upper chest and back, and they might wish for more extensive coverage, particularly in the lower back and abdomen.
- Battery Life: While the low setting offers extended life, the high heat setting provides only two hours of continuous warmth, which may be insufficient for a full day’s journey without a spare battery.
- Subtle Heat: For the heat to be most effective, a rider often needs to wear a jacket or another layer over the shirt to press the heating elements closer to the body.
In conclusion, the Gerbing 7V Battery Heated Flannel Shirt is a masterful blend of form and function. It stands as a sensible, well-executed choice for the rider who values warmth and comfort without sacrificing personal style or mobility. It is a modern solution that proves the cold need not be a deterrent to the pursuit of the open road.
Check it out at Amazon
Check it out at Revzilla
Check it out at J&P Cycles
