The RST Moto TracTech Evo 5 D3O Leather Jacket is the fifth generation of RST’s flagship performance motorcycle jacket. Derived directly from the engineering of the TracTech racing suit, this jacket is designed for riders who split their time between spirited road riding and track days.
It introduces significant upgrades in armor technology and ergonomic refinement, delivering a high-specification protective garment that remains practical for use off the bike.
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Engineering and Protective Composition
The TracTech Evo 5 is a leather jacket that is built to the highest safety standards available for motorcycle apparel, utilizing robust materials and advanced impact management.
- Premium Drum-Dyed Cowhide: The primary structure is crafted from premium drum-dyed cowhide leather, chosen for its exceptional abrasion resistance and durability.
- Triple-Stitched Integrity: All critical seams are triple-stitched using bonded nylon thread, significantly reducing the risk of seam failure during a slide.
- D3O® Level 2 Armor Suite: A major update for this generation is the inclusion of D3O® Level 2 armor at the shoulders, elbows, and back. D3O is a “non-Newtonian” material that remains flexible during normal movement but hardens instantly upon impact.
- Safety Certification: The jacket is fully CE Certified to Level AAA, the highest possible rating for motorcycle garments, indicating its suitability for high-speed track use.
- TPU Shoulder Cups: External TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) shoulder cups provide additional slide protection and structural reinforcement at a key impact point.
Ergonomics and Climate Management
While protective, the TracTech Evo 5 is designed with a “less aggressive” cut than a full racing suit to improve comfort when the rider is in a more upright position.
- Panel-in-Panel Perforation: Strategically placed perforated leather panels provide significant airflow through the chest and torso, facilitating effective cooling during high-exertion riding.
- 4-Way Woven Stretch: Large panels of 4-way woven stretch fabric are integrated into the inner arms and torso, allowing for a wide range of motion and a precise, adaptive fit.
- Removable Thermal Gilet: For cooler conditions, the jacket includes a removable quilted thermal gilet. This allows the rider to extend the jacket’s use into the shoulder seasons.
- Neoprene Comfort Cuffs and Collar: The collar and cuffs are trimmed with soft neoprene to prevent skin irritation and chafing during long rides.
- Aerodynamic Race Hump: An integrated race hump on the upper back aids in aerodynamic stability at high speeds and provides a smooth transition to the motorcycle’s fuel tank in a full tuck.
Practical Features and Integration
The TracTech Evo 5 is designed to function as part of a modular system while offering everyday utility.
- 360° Connection Zip: A universal 360-degree waist zipper allows the jacket to be securely attached to any pair of RST leather or textile pants, creating a legal and safe two-piece track suit.
- Storage Capacity: The jacket features two external zippered pockets and four internal pockets, providing ample space for essentials like a phone, wallet, or keys.
- Waist Adjusters: Integrated hook-and-loop waist adjusters allow for fine-tuning the fit to the rider’s specific midsection profile.
- Chest Protector Pocket: The internal mesh lining includes a dedicated pocket for an optional chest protector (sold separately).
The Ledger of Advantages and Disadvantages
The RST TracTech Evo 5 D3O offers a professional-grade protective envelope at a competitive price point.
Pros:
- Maximum Safety Rating: Achieving a AAA CE rating ensures the highest level of abrasion and impact protection available.
- Premium Armor Included: The inclusion of Level 2 D3O armor in the back, shoulders, and elbows—as standard—is a significant value addition.
- Versatile Fit: The “less aggressive” cut makes it more comfortable for street riding and walking than a dedicated race suit.
- Multi-Season Utility: The combination of perforated panels and a removable thermal liner makes it effective across a wide temperature range.
Cons:
- Weight: The heavy-grade cowhide and comprehensive armor suite result in a substantial overall weight, which may be noticeable during long days off the bike.
- Ventilation Limits: While perforated, it lacks the massive airflow of a dedicated mesh jacket, making it less ideal for extreme, slow-speed urban heat.
- Sport-Specific Styling: The presence of the race hump and external TPU cups gives it a distinct “track” aesthetic that may not appeal to riders of cruisers or classic motorcycles.
In conclusion, the RST TracTech Evo 5 D3O is a highly technical sport jacket that prioritizes rider safety without ignoring the requirements of road comfort. It is a robust choice for the performance-oriented rider who demands track-certified protection in a package that is versatile enough for daily use.
Check it out at Revzilla
Check it out at Amazon
