Alpinestars R2 Mode d'emploi

USER’S GUIDE

IMPORTANT READ THIS MANUAL.

SAFETY CRITICAL INFORMATION INSIDE.

v. 1.8

RACE

Please read the following important

WARNING and LIMITATION of use notice

carefully:

Motorcycling is an inherently dangerous activity and an

ultra-hazardous sport, which may result in serious personal

injury, including death. Each individual motorcycle rider

must be familiar with motorcycling, recognize the wide

range of foreseeable hazards and decide whether to assume

the risks inherent in such an activity with the knowledge of

the dangers involved and accept any and all risks of injury-

including death. While all motorcycle riders should utilize

appropriate protective equipment, each rider should exercise

extreme care for safety while riding and understand that no

product can offer complete protection from injury including

death or damage to individuals and property in case of fall,

collision, impact, loss of control or otherwise. Riders should

ensure that safety products are correctly used and fitted. DO

NOT use any product that is worn out, modified or damaged.

Alpinestars makes no guarantees or representations,

express or implied, regarding the fitness of its products

for any particular purpose.

Alpinestars makes no guarantees or representations,

express or implied, regarding the extent to which its

products protect individuals or property from injury, death

or damage.

ALPINESTARS DISCLAIMS ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR

INJURIES INCURRED WHILE WEARING ANY OF ITS

PRODUCTS.

RACE

89/686/EEC CAT II

SAB1

2007/23/EC

AIRBAG MODULE

0080.P1.14.XXXXXXX

37 - 40cm

0080

AIRBAG

1FB

CHASSIS NUMBER:

0000000

MADE IN ITALY

89/686/EEC CAT II

SAB1

2007/23/EC

AIRBAG MODULE

0080.P1.14.XXXXXXX

37 - 40cm

0080

AIRBAG

1FB

CHASSIS NUMBER:

0000000

MADE IN ITALY

5 EN4 EN

2. Principles of Operation

The Tech-Air® Race airbag Vest contains an airbag control unit (with built-in sensor)

integrated into the back protector, and two external sensors positioned on the shoulders

(Figure 1). These three sensors monitor the user’s body for shocks or unexpected movements.

In the event the user’s body is subject to a high and/or sudden amount of energy, the airbag

will inﬂate. This may occur when the rider loses control, falls from or (in the case of a high

side) is launched from the motorcycle.

3. Activation and non activation conditions

The Tech-Air® Race airbag system oﬀers protection to riders in the event of an accident;

notwithstanding, like any other product, there are limitations to the protection that it can

provide. NO PRODUCT CAN PROVIDE COMPLETE PROTECTION FROM INJURY, DEATH, OR

DAMAGE TO PERSONS OR PROPERTY IN THE EVENT OF A FALL, ACCIDENT, COLLISION,

IMPACT, LOSS OR CONTROL OR OTHER EVENT.

In general, there are three basic factors that determine whether an airbag system will

provide protection to a user:

(a) Whether the forces experienced by the user during a crash occur within an area covered

by the airbag; and

(b) Whether the airbag deploys during the event, and if so, whether it is fully inﬂated before

the user hits the ground or collides with an obstacle.

(c) Whether the airbag deploys before the user collides with parts or accessories of their

own motorcycle. For example, the windscreen.

The deployment time consists of the time for the sensors to detect the event together

with the time it takes to ﬁll the airbag fully with gas, which is about 45 milliseconds (“ms”).

The time available to deploy the airbag is dependent on the accident.

The Tech-Air® Race airbag system provides impact protection for those areas of airbag

coverage shown in Figure 2.

Figure 1 – Sensor Locations

(Front)

(Back)

Figure 2

Area of Airbag

coverage

Table of Contents

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

Introduction

Principles of Operation

Activation and Non Activation Conditions

Limitations of Use

System Overview

Sizing

Health and Age Restrictions

Vest Installation

Fitting

Transportation of Objects Inside the Compatible Airbag Garment

Battery Charging

Race Mode Operation

Display Indications

Cleaning, Storage and Transportation

Maintenance, Servicing and Disposal

Actions in the Event of an Accident

Tech-Air® Data Portal

Street Mode Operation

Troubleshooting

Index of Error Codes

Tech-Air® Support

Certiﬁcation Information

4

5

7

8

10

11

12

13

15

16

18

20

27

28

WARNING! Use of an Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket without the airbag

vest will provide the user with NO airbag protection.

WARNING! It is essential to read this manual carefully, understand it

completely and to follow the advice and warnings. If you have any questions

regarding the equipment contact Tech-Air® Support (Section 21).

1. Introduction

The Tech-Air® Race Airbag Vest is an active safety system optimized for use on the racetrack.

The Tech-Air® Race Airbag Vest system also permits the ability to change the software

running on the electronic unit to make it suitable for use on public roads (See section 18).

In the event of an accident or other triggering event, the airbag system provides upper

body protection to the user. In addition, provided that such accident did not damage the

system, the Dual Charge concept, provides upper body protection in a second accident

without requiring the airbag to be returned to Alpinestars for recharge. (See section 12 -

Race ModeOperation - Dual Charge Concept).

In this manual the following three presentation styles are used to provide information:

Tip: Provides useful advice regarding the system.

IMPORTANT! Provides important information regarding the limitations of the system.

WARNING! Provides critical information which, if not followed, may cause

injury, death, system malfunction or non-function, and/or an exaggerated

expectation of the system’s abilities.

The Tech-Air® Race Airbag Vest is comprised of two components

1. The Alpinestars Tech-Air® Race airbag Vest (“airbag Vest”) and

2. An Alpinestars suit/jacket (“Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket”) compatible with and to

be used with the airbag vest. The airbag vest and the Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket

are sold separately.

WARNING! The airbag system, including its components (the airbag vest

and the Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket), are technically advanced

pieces of motorcycling safety equipment and should not be treated like a

normal motorcycle garment. Similar to one’s motorcycle, the system and its

components must be cared for, serviced and maintained, so that they may

function correctly.

WARNING! The airbag vest MUST be used with an Alpinestars’ Compatible

Suit/Jacket.

RACERACE

7 EN6 EN

WARNING! The user does not need to be involved in a crash for the system to

deploy. For example, the system may deploy if the user falls while wearing

the system, such as when dismounting from the motorcycle if the system is

still armed. These types of “non-riding” deployments are not failures of the

system because the user’s body was at risk of injury.

Motorcycle Type

The Tech-Air® Race airbag system can be utilized on any type of motorcycle, including

electric motorcycles.

4. Limitations of Use

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system is to be used ONLY for

motorcycling in a closed circuit race track within the conditions and

limitations delineated above.

WARNING! Remember that when using your Tech-Air® Race airbag system on

a race track, the ﬁrmware must be the Race ﬁrmware. If you have downloaded

the Street ﬁrmware onto your Tech-Air® Race airbag system, you MUST

CHANGE the ﬁrmware back to Race mode before using your Tech-Air® Race

airbag system on a race track.

The system is NOT for use in:

• Enduro, Motocross, or Supermoto events;

• Motorcycle stunts; or

• ANY non-motorcycling activites.

WARNING! Due to shocks, movement and/or other input detected and/or

received by the system while in use, although unlikely the system may deploy

even though there is no crash-event.

The Tech-Air® Race airbag system will activate (provided the system is armed, see section 12)

within the following parameters:

•

A Highside crash*

•

A Lowside crash** with at least one the following characteristics:

•

Crash start speed over 80km/h

•

Where there is a collision or sudden deceleration during the slide (such has hitting the

curb or another bike)

•

Where there is high energy in the body limbs (tumbling or not).

•

A crash against an obstacle over 30km/h (such as hitting another bike or a tire barrier)

•

Falling oﬀ the bike without sliding (such as in a gravel trap)

The Tech-Air®Race airbag system will NOT activate under the following parameters:

•

The system is switched oﬀ, or not armed.

•

In a Lowside crash with at least one of the following characteristics

•

The speed of the crash is under 30km/h

•

The rider slides without touching the ground with their back or shoulder

•

Crashes against obstacles under 30km/h

* A Highside crash is where the rear tire momentarily loses grip, compressing the rear suspension

which can catapult the rider into the air.

** A Lowside crash is where the front tyre loses grip during cornering, causing the motorcycle

to fall onto side.

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system provides only limited protection

against forces experienced at the areas of airbag coverage depicted in Figure

2. No guarantee is given that the Tech-Air® Race airbag system will prevent

injuries (including severe or fatal injuries) inside and/or outside the covered/

protected areas.

WARNING! The protective performance of the airbag is only warranted in the

FIRST crash of a new system or after an airbag recharge. Even if there is no

damage visible on the Vest.

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system cannot prevent accidents.

WARNING! No protective device, including the Tech-Air® Race airbag system,

can provide protection against all possible sources of injury and therefore

cannot provide complete protection against injures.

WARNING! Wearing the Tech-Air® Race airbag system is not a substitute

for wearing other protective motorcycling clothing and gear. To provide full

potential protection, the Tech-Air® Race airbag system must always be worn

in conjunction with suitable motorcycling apparel, including a helmet, boots,

gloves, and other appropriate protective equipment.

RACERACE

Figure 4

Figure 3

89/686/EEC CAT II

SAB1

2007/23/EC

AIRBAG MODULE

0080.P1.14.XXXXXXX

37 - 40cm

0080

AIRBAG

1FB

CHASSIS NUMBER:

0000000

MADE IN ITALY

89/686/EEC CAT II

SAB1

2007/23/EC

AIRBAG MODULE

0080.P1.14.XXXXXXX

37 - 40cm

0080

AIRBAG

1FB

CHASSIS NUMBER:

0000000

MADE IN ITALY

9 EN8 EN

15

1

2

4

3

13

14

5. System Overview

The diagrams below illustrate the diﬀerent parts of the Tech-Air® Race airbag system

(airbag Vest and an Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket - Figure 3). The numbered parts

are used to guide you through this user’s guide.

TECH-AIR® SYSTEM

COMPATIBLE SUIT

1. Vest attachment

zips (Vest)

2. Detachable belt

3. Sealed Closure zip

4. Control Unit

5. LED Display socket

6. On board power

LED RACE

7. On board power

LED STREET

8. Master Switch

9. Micro USB Port

10.Vest attachment

zips (Suit)

11. LED Display

11a. Green Indicator

11b. Orange Indicator

11c. Red indicator

12. Collar Attachment

Vecro Flap

13. Collar Attachment

Velcro

14. Upper Shoulder

Attachment Velcro

15. Lower Shoulder

Attachment Velcro

16. LED Display cable

17. LED Dispay plug

storage pocket

18. Activation Flap

11c

11b

11a

8

11

9

7 5

6

4

12

17

16

18

10

ELECTRONIC UNIT (4)

RACERACE

Figure 6 Figure 7

3. Fold out the second Velcro ﬂap (12) and attach the collar Velcro on the Vest (13) to this

new ﬂap, centering it correctly (Figure 6).

4. Proceed to attach the lower shoulder velcro (15) and upper shoulder velcro (14) to the

corresponding patches inside the suit lining on both the left and right shoulders.

5. Remove the LED display plug from the storage pocket (17) and plug it into the grey socket

(5) (Figure 7).

6. Turn on the Master switch(8). Note that the master switch should remain always on,

except during shipping or storage.

7. Place the rest of the Vest inside the leather suit .

8. Use the yellow zips on the suit (10) and the vest (1) to zip the Vest into the suit.

9. The suit is now ready for use.

11 EN10 EN

6. Sizing

The Tech-Air® Race airbag Vest is available in sizes from S to 2XL. The

airbag inside is available in ﬁve sizes that correspond to the waist to

shoulder length of the user (Figure 5). Table 1 below lists the sizes of vest

and the airbag size which they contain. This chart contains suggested

sizing.

IMPORTANT! The airbag Vest must be installed inside an Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/

Jacket ﬁrst.

MTF = Mean Transmitted Force attained during testing.

Table 1

Vest

Size

Euro

Size

US

Size

User’s Waist to Shoulder Range Suggested Height Range MTF

S 44,46 34,36 37 – 40cm (14.6” – 15.7”) 1.41 – 1.52m (4’7” – 5’0”) <4.5 KN

M 48,50 38,40 40 – 43cm (15.7” – 17.0”) 1.52 – 1.63m (5’0” – 5’4”) <4.5 KN

L 52,54 42,44 43 – 46cm (17.0” – 18.1”) 1.63 – 1.75m (5’4” – 5’9”) <4.5 KN

XL 56,58 46,48 46 – 49cm (18.1” – 19.3”) 1.75 – 1.86m (5’9” – 6’1”) <4.5 KN

2XL 60,62 50,52 49 – 51cm (19.3” – 20.1”) 1.86 – 1.94m (6’1” – 6’4”) <4.5 KN

Figure 5

7. Health and Age Restrictions

IMPORTANT! In Europe the pyrotechnic directive (2007/23) prohibits the sale of

pyrotechnic articles to anyone under the age of 18.

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system must not be handled by

children at any time.

WARNING! In event of a crash, the inﬂation of the airbag will cause sudden

pressure across the back and torso. This can cause discomfort and for users

in poor health this may cause complications.

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system must not be used by persons

with a history of heart problems, or other diseases, conditions, aﬄictions or

illnesses which may weaken the heart.

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system must not be used by persons

ﬁtted with a pacemaker or other implanted electronic medical devices. Note

also that magnets are contained inside the activation ﬂap (18).

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system must not be used by persons

with neck or back problems.

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system must not be used by women

during pregnancy.

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system must not be used by women

with artiﬁcial breast implants.

WARNING! Any body piercings which coincide with the airbag coverage area

should be removed before electing to use the Tech-Air® Race airbag system,

as inﬂation of the airbag into and against the body piercings may cause

discomfort and/or injury.

Allergy Advice

Persons with certain skin allergies to synthetic, rubber or plastic materials, should carefully

monitor their skin each time the Tech-Air® Street airbag system is worn. If any irritation

of the skin occurs, immediately stop wearing the system and seek medical advice and/or

attention.

Tip: If quickly trying only the ﬁt of the garment, steps 5 and 6 can be skipped.

8. Vest Installation

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag Vest must ALWAYS be used with an

Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket of corresponding and appropriate size.

Use of the airbag vest with the incorrect size of Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/

Jacket, or a non-compatible Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket, may result

in injury, including severe injury and/or death.

To install an airbag vest into a Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket:.

1. Remove the all the patches which are attached to the velcro panels on the Vest (13,14,15)

2. Detach the suit lining at the Velcro on the collar.

1

2

3

2

List of Compatible Garments

315 5016 GP PRO 1PC LEATHER SUIT TECH AIR COMPATIBLE

315 6017 GP TECH V2 LEATHER SUIT TECH AIR COMPATIBLE

315 0118 MISSILE LEATHER SUIT TECH AIR COMPATIBLE

310 8517 GP TECH V2 LEATHER JACKET TECH AIR COMPATIBLE

310 0118 MISSILE LEATHER JACKET TECH AIR COMPATIBLE

310 8118 CHARLIE LEATHER JACKET TECH AIR COMPATIBLE

320 0518 TMISSILE DRYSTAR JACKET TECH AIR COMPATIBLE

330 0618 TMISSILE AIR JACKET TECH AIR COMPATIBLE

330 2519 24RIDE JACKET TECH AIR COMPATIBLE

310 7219 SPECTER LEATHER JACKET TECH AIR COMPATIBLE

316 0119 MISSILE 2PC LEATHER SUIT TECH AIR COMPATIBLE

RACERACE

13 EN12 EN

Charging and Use Times

Approximately six hours are required to recharge a discharged battery with the supplied charger.

A fully charged battery will provide approximately 25 hours of use. If time is limited, charging

the battery for approximately one hour will provide approximately three to four hours of use.

Battery Life

If the system is not in regular use it is required to recharge the battery at least once every 12

months to prevent the battery dropping below a minimum charge after which the battery life

would be notably reduced.

WARNING! The unit should be recharged as soon as possible when the red

Battery Level LED light (11c) ﬂashes, as this indicates low battery level.

Tip: The unit may be charged by connecting it to a computer, or to an alternative

Micro USB charger, however if the current output is under 2 Amps then charging

times will be longer than stated above.

12. Race Mode Operation

Turning On

1. Check that the Master switch (8) has been switched to the ‘I’ position (See section 8).

2. Put on the Compatible Suit/Jacket, but do not zip it closed.

3. Close the activation ﬂap(18). This is best done by covering the velcro tab with your

thumb and letting the magnets snap together ﬁrst, then engage the velcro.

4. At this point the system will turn on – check that the LED Display (11) illuminates.

5. Close the outer zip of the Compatible Suit/Jacket.

6. Continue to follow the LED Display indications (Section 13 below) to check that the

system starts correctly.

Tip: If the system does not power on (No LED Indications illuminate) check

that there is nothing in between the two activation ﬂaps and that the two

ﬂaps are correctly overlaid.

Tip: The Activation Flap (18) functions using magnets. Magnetically sensitive

items (such as credit cards) should be kept at least 1 cm away from the sensor

area.

WARNING! In order to activate the Tech-Air® Race airbag system, the Master

Switch (8) must be turned on (“I” position) AND the activation ﬂap (18) of the

Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket must be closed.

10. Transportation of Objects Inside the Compatible

Airbag Garment

Where pockets are present on an Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket consideration needs to

be given to the objects which may be placed inside the Compatible Suit/Jacket pockets. For

example:

• Sharp or pointed objects placed in pockets may pierce the airbag and compromise inﬂation.

• Bulky objects will reduce the amount that the airbag can expand, reducing or potentially

reducing the eﬃcacy of the airbag and/or making the system feel much tighter when inﬂated,

possibly increasing discomfort or causing distraction or injury.

IMPORTANT! Where a breast pocket exists on an Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket extra

attention should be paid to the contents stored in such breast pocket. ONLY ﬂat objects such

as a wallet should be stored there.

WARNING! Under NO circumstances should a user attempt to transport objects

of ANY size or shape, including sharp or pointed objects, stuﬀed inside the

Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket, as they may cause injury to the user and/

or damage to the airbag. Where pockets are provided, only blunt objects should

be transported in the Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket provided that they ﬁt

completely inside the pockets.

Tip: Users should note that Tech-Air® airbag system has been tested to be safe

when used in combination with backpacks loaded up to a maximum of 6kg

(approximately 13 pounds) in weight.

11. Battery Charging

Charge the unit fully before ﬁrst use. To do this, connect the supplied charger to the Micro USB

port (9) on the unit. The LED display (11) will display an animation. When the battery is fully

charged all three LEDs will remain illuminated.

IMPORTANT! The battery will only recharge when the ambient temperature is between 0-45°C

(32°F-113°F).

IMPORTANT! It is not possible to charge the Tech-Air® Race airbag Vest when in use.

WARNING! Do not leave the unit unattended while charging the battery. Charge

only in a dry location with a temperature range of 0 to 45°C (32°F-113°F)

Tip: When the Tech-Air® Race airbag system is installed in a leather suit, the

MicroUSB port can be accessed easier by unzipping one of the vest attachment

zips (1) and partially lifting the vest outward. (See ﬁgure 8).

9. Fitting

Once the airbag Vest has been installed inside the Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket it may

be worn and fastened like any other garment. For those users who prefer the airbag Vest to ﬁt

snugly, the internal belt (2) can be used, however this is a matter of personal preference and the

airbag Vest may be worn with the belt unfastened or removed.

When ﬁtting the Tech-Air® Race airbag system, users should check in particular that:

• The suit is not too tight across the chest

• The legs and arms are of acceptable length to work with the gloves and boots that will be worn.

Tip: It is recommended to try the Compatible Suit/Jacket seated on a sports

motorcycle, to ensure that the suit is still comfortable when the arms and legs are

bent. Note that leather stretches slightly over time and thus it is better to select

the suit with a slightly tighter ﬁt, rather than a slightly looser ﬁt.

WARNING! It is imperative that the Tech-Air® Race airbag system is ﬁtted

correctly in order to provide the maximum potential protection in an accident.

Compatible Suit/Jacket which are too small will cause severe discomfort when

the system is inﬂated, Compatible Suit/Jacket which are too large may not hold

the airbag vest in place during a fall or accident. In case of doubts or questions

regarding ﬁt, seek advice from an Alpinestars dealer.

3

1

2

Figure 8

RACERACE

Turning Oﬀ

Unzip the Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket and separate the two activation ﬂaps (18).

The orange LED (11b) will ﬂash and the system will shut down after 5 seconds. Conﬁrm that

the system is oﬀ and/or not receiving power by checking to see that there are no indicator

lights illuminated in the LED Display (11).

If you want to continue wearing the Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket after shutting the

system down, then zip the garment closed again keeping the two halves of the activation

ﬂap (18) apart.

To make power unavailable to the system, move the Master Switch (8)to the oﬀ position.

Turn the Master Switch (8) oﬀ if the Tech-Air® Race airbag vest is to be stored, transported

or shipped.

Tip: It is easier to access the master switch (8) by ﬁrst unzipping one of the Vest

attachment zips (1) and partially lifting the Vest out of the suit (See Figure 8).

Naturally after switching the master switch back on, the vest attachment zip

requires to be reattached.

WARNING! ALWAYS turn the system oﬀ [by separating the activation ﬂap]

when you are not riding a motorcycle if you continue to wear the system.

Keeping the system powered up and/or active increases the possibility of an

unwanted deployment and drains the battery.

Note also that the system will power back up if the activation ﬂap is closed

again.

WARNING! When not in use and being stored, transported or shipped,

the system must be shut down at the Master Switch. This makes power

unavailable to the system, prevents battery drain and possible reduced

battery life, as well as inadvertent supplying of power to and powering-up

of the system.

Dual Charge Concept

The Tech-Air® Race System oﬀers a Dual Charge concept which provides the rider with a

second airbag inﬂation after a ﬁrst inﬂation.

In the event of a ﬁrst accident or other triggering event that causes the airbag to inﬂate for

the ﬁrst inﬂation, and provided that such ﬁrst accident did not damage the system or injure

the rider, the Dual Charge concept allows the rider after a ﬁrst accident to continue riding.

Upper body protection will be provided in a second accident without requiring the airbag to

be returned to Alpinestars for recharge.

IMPORTANT! For the Dual Charge feature, even if no damage is observed on either the

Tech-Air® Race System or Compatible Suit/Jacket, the performance of the airbag in the

second deployment (re-use of the same airbag) cannot be warranted to be the same as

the ﬁrst.

WARNING! Dual Charge operates ONLY if the system is in Race Mode.

WARNING! Street Mode can only be used if BOTH charges are NOT activated.

13. Display Indications

The LED Display (11) has three coloured LEDs which are used to monitor indicate the status of

the system.

Indications During Use

14. Cleaning, Storage and Transportation

Airbag Vest Cleaning

Use only a cloth dampened with water to clean the airbag vest (fabric and plastic parts).

Solvents or chemical cleaners must not be used, as they may compromise the integrity of

the airbag.

WARNING! Under NO circumstances should the airbag Vest be washed in

a washing machine, submerged in water, tumble dried or ironed. This may

cause permanent damage to the airbag system and cause malfunction.

IMPORTANT! This indication

At any time means there is a

fault and the system will not

deploy in an accident.

Oﬀ On Slow

Blink

Battery Level

Under 2 hours

Standby mode (Disarmed) - Two charges Standby mode (Disarmed) - One charge

Running mode (Armed) - Two charges Running mode (Armed) - One charge

2 to 8 hrs over 8 hrs

Fast

Blink

Turn On

Turn Oﬀ

3s

5s

Tip: With a single red indication, the red LED will blink a number of times

to indicate the code of the system error for the problem that the system is

experiencing. These codes and the corresponding errors are listed in Section

20, and the errors can also be viewed using the Tech-Air® Connect software

(Section 17, available from the DATA PORTAL).

IMPORTANT! The single Green LED indicates that the system is functioning

and will deploy in a crash.

WARNING! A single RED LED or Orange + Green LEDs indicate that

the system will NOT Deploy in a crash.

If the ﬁrst charge has been activated, then the software will give an error

and no protection will be provided. In case only one charge is remaining, the

system will NOT work in Street mode. Send the system for a recharge service.

15 EN14 EN

System Arming

Once the system has started up, the LED Display (11) will provide a Green (11a) and Orange

(11b) indication. At this point the system is not live and will not inﬂate in case of an accident.

The system will become live automatically once the user starts riding, and this is conﬁrmed

when the orange indication (11b) is switched oﬀ. Note that the sharp accelerations and

braking from racing assist the arming – without them a constant speed of around 100km/h

must be maintained in order to maintain the system in the armed state. If the rider stops

or the speed drops below 100km/h for an extended time then the system will disarm.

WARNING! If the rider chooses to ride a slow sighting (or celebratory) lap

then the system may not be armed. This can be veriﬁed by checking for the

steady Orange (11b) indication on the LED Display.

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system will not provide protection if

the rider is stopped.

WARNING! ALWAYS Ensure that you have the Orange (11b) and Green

(11a) indication on the LED Display (11) before starting to ride. It is also

recommended to check the display status occasionally during riding to

conﬁrm that the system is live (Steady Green indication- 11a) and that there

are no errors (Red indication – 11c)

RACERACE

15. Maintenance, Servicing and Disposal

Garments with electronically activated airbags are critical safety systems which must be

maintained in good working order to ensure their correct function. If not, they may not

function properly or at all.

Maintenance

Prior to each use, the user should conduct a check of the Tech-Air® Race airbag system

(Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket and the airbag vest), looking for any signs of wear

(loose threads, holes, marks on the airbag surface) or damage. If found, the system should

be inspected further by an authorized Alpinestars dealer.

Post Crash Inspection

After a crash the following must be checked:

• Compatible Suit/Jacket: That there are no holes anywhere in the leather suit (checking

carefully the joining seams between leather and stretch areas) and that all three bulbs of

the LED Display are undamaged.

Outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket Cleaning

Once separated from the airbag Vest, the outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket may be

cleaned according to the instructions on the garment.

Storage

The Tech-Air® Race airbag system (i.e.: airbag Vest + and outer Alpinestars’ Compatible

Suit/Jacket) is best stored hung from a rail. It may also be stored ﬂat, provided no heavy or

sharp objects are placed on top of it. The Tech-Air® Race airbag system should be stored

in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight and the Master Switch (8) should be turned oﬀ.

If storing the airbag Vest only, it is best stored in its original packaging. Likewise, it may

be stored ﬂat in a drawer provided that no heavy or sharp objects are placed on top of it.

Also, it should be stored in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight, and the Master Switch

(8) should also be turned oﬀ.

WARNING! Do NOT leave the airbag Vest in direct sunlight inside a closed car

or otherwise exposed to high temperatures. High temperatures will damage

the battery and possibly the other electronics of the unit.

WARNING! Do not use the activation ﬂap on the Alpinestars’ Compatible

Suit/Jacket as a means to stop the garment falling oﬀ a clothes hanger. This

will cause the system to activate. To prevent this, it is essential that

the Master Switch (8) be turned oﬀ or that only the main zip of the suit is

closed, without closing the activation ﬂaps (18) Failure to do so will cause

the unit to remain powered, which will cause the battery to drain. Conﬁrm

the system is oﬀ by checking that there are no indicator lights illuminated

on the LED Display (11).

Transportation

Users should be aware that the airbag inﬂators are pyrotechnic devices, however the

Tech-Air® system has been classiﬁed as ‘Not Dangerous’ with reference to the UN shipping

regulations. This means that the system can be safely transported – including by air

provided that the airbag vest is checked into the aircraft’s hold as checked luggage.

When transporting the vest by air, users are strongly recommended to download and print

a copy of the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) in the event they may be questioned

by airport staﬀ. This can be downloaded from the Tech-Air® Data Portal (Section 17) or

obtained from your Alpinestars dealer.

Note: Not all countries worldwide permit the import of pyrotechnic devices. Prior to

travelling, users should check with the appropriate authorities of countries through which

and to which they are travelling to determine if the system will be permitted entry or not.

Tip: Whenever the system is returned for airbag replacement or routine

servicing, the airbag vest will be disassembled and washed.

• Tech-Air® Race airbag system: that there are no holes in the Vest, no frayed seams, no

cracks to the back protector plastics or electronics casing, and no exposed areas of the airbag.

WARNING! If any of the above damage is found then the Compatible Suit/

Jacket and/or the Tech-Air® Race airbag system MUST be returned for

service, otherwise it may not provide any protection in a second crash event.

If in doubt seek advice from your Alpinestars dealer.

IMPORTANT! For the dual charge feature, even if no damage is observed on either the

Tech-Air® Race airbag system or Compatible Suit/Jacket, the performance of the airbag

in the second deployment (reuse of the same airbag) cannot be warranted to be the same

as the ﬁrst.

Routine Service

A routine service by Alpinestars must be conducted at least every 2 years, in cases where

the airbag vest has never previously been returned for recharge. Where the airbag vest has

been recharged, then the 2 years start from the recharge date. The routine service permits

the wear of the airbag and the unit’s components to be inspected in detail. Service can be

requested directly from an Alpinestars Tech-Air® dealer. The following work is undertaken

as part of the routine service:

• All components are removed from the airbag vest and the airbag vest is washed.

• The diagnostics of the electronic unit are checked (and ﬁrmware upgraded, if applicable).

• The airbag is inspected for wear and/or damage.

• The system is reassembled into the airbag vest and function checked as per new

production items.

Tip: Two years is the maximum recommended period between inspections,

however if the airbag vest is used extensively, then a recommended inspection

and service interval of 6 months to 1 year is recommended.

WARNING! If no service or recharge operation has been conducted after

two years of the purchase date or last service/recharge date, there is the

possibility that the system will not always function in accordance with the

activation and non activation conditions listed in section 3.

IMPORTANT! Even if serviced regularly, Alpinestars cannot guarantee that after 10 years

the system will always function in accordance with the activation and non activation

conditions conditions listed in section 3.

WARNING! There are NO user serviceable parts inside the airbag vest. Under

no circumstances should users attempt to open, service, disassemble or

modify the airbag vest. Any and all work performed on the airbag vest must

be done by Alpinestars or an authorized service provider. Severe injury or

damage may result otherwise.

IMPORTANT! The access zipper to the airbag vest is sealed (3). Cutting this seal voids the

warranty on the product.

Disposal – Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket

The outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket should be disposed of in accordance with

local waste regulations. Note that under the European WEEE regulation, the LED Display

cannot be disposed of in normal household waste. This must be removed from the airbag

garment and disposed of at a suitable facility for the recycling of electronic parts.

Disposal – Fired Airbag Vest

A deployed airbag vest contains electronic components. Under the European WEEE

regulation these must be removed and disposed of at a suitable recycling facility. The

remaining airbag vest chassis and used airbag can be disposed of in accordance with local

waste regulations.

Tip: A deployed Vest can be conﬁrmed by turning on the system and checking

that the ‘airbag ﬁred’ fault is indicated on the LED Display, which gives 25

blinks of the red LED (11c).

17 EN16 EN

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Figure 9 – User Registration Dialogue

Disposal – Unﬁred Airbag Vest

WARNING! An undeployed airbag Vest still contains live pyrotechnic charges

and thus must NOT be disposed of in household waste or incinerated.

Undeployed airbag Vests must be returned to an Alpinestars dealer for subsequent return to

Alpinestars who will handle the disposal. This service is free of charge.

19 EN18 EN

• Download the street version of the ﬁrmware and ﬁrmware upgrade instructions, which are

important for Street Mode use.

• Download the Material Safety Data Sheet (See Section 14)

• Locate the nearest Alpinestars dealer who can handle Tech-Air® Systems.

• Be kept up to date on news relevant to your system.

Similar to a motorcycle, each airbag system has a serial number called the Chassis Number.

This can be found under the QR code on the inside of the airbag vest near the collar. Scanning

the QR code with a mobile phone will automatically connect to the Data Portal and provide

manufacturing and service history for that system.

The Data Portal also records details on the ownership of the system (customer name and a contact

e-mail address). Normally ownership is registered by the dealer during purchase of the system,

however if this did not happen registration can be executed following the instructions below.

IMPORTANT!

It is essential that each owner is correctly registered in the Data Portal. Alpinestars

will not use owner information for marketing purposes or pass the information to third-parties.

IMPORTANT!

Requests made for servicing, recharge, or warranty returns will only be carried out

if the system ownership has been registered with Alpinestars.

New User Registration

In order to register ownership there are two steps, ﬁrst to create a customer record, and then to

transfer the ownership.

Registration can be made directly from the Tech-Air® website: techair.alpinestars.com

Click on the “New User registration” button and a dialogue as shown in Figure 9 below will appear:

Complete the details requested and click “Register”. A customer number will be assigned, which

the customer should note for future reference. Note that at this point this customer does not

“own” any systems.

Transfer of Ownership

Ownership of a system can only be assigned by a Tech-Air® dealer or by Alpinestars Tech-Air®

support. Transfer of Ownership is applicable for ﬁrst owners (brand new systems) as well as

systems that have then been sold privately, second-hand.

• At a dealership:

The user shall present the airbag vest and provide the dealer their customer number. The dealer

will then register ownership of the system.

• By Tech-Air® support:

The user shall advise the chassis number and (for brand new systems) provide proof of purchase.

Alpinestars will then register ownership of the system.

Tip: System ownership can be transferred by any Tech-Air® dealer, it does not

need to be the dealer where the system was purchased. A list of dealers which

handle Tech-Air® systems can also be obtained from the Tech-Air® web page.

16. Actions in the Event of an Accident

Accident WITHOUT Deployment

In the case of minor accidents which fall inside the non activation conditions in section 3, it is

likely that the airbag will not activate. Nonetheless, a thorough inspection of the Tech-Air® Race

airbag system (i.e.: Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket and the airbag vest) must be made as per

the post crash check outlined in Section 15.

Tip: If the outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket has sustained considerable

damage, but the airbag Vest is completely undamaged, then it may be more

economical and faster to purchase a replacement outer Alpinestars’ Compatible

Suit/Jacket instead of arranging for repair.

Accident WITHOUT Deployment, BUT Where The User Believes The System

Should Have Deployed.

IMPORTANT!

In these circumstances the system must be turned oﬀ IMMEDIATELY after the

accident because the electronic unit only holds 2 minutes of data. After that, the crash data will

be overwritten and the possibility to analyze the data will be lost.

The airbag Vest should be returned to an Alpinestars Tech-Air® dealer along with a detailed

account of the event (including photos, if possible). Alpinestars will then analyze the information

and respond.

Accident WITH Deployment.

Where the airbag has deployed a recharge service is available from Tech-Air® dealers to have the

airbag and inﬂators replaced. During this service, a full inspection will be made of the airbag Vest

and of its electronic equipment.

The outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket should also be inspected. For an extra fee, the user

may have the Alpinestars’ Compatible Suit/Jacket inspected for damage and repaired while the

airbag vest is being recharged.

Accident or Other Situation WITH Deployment, BUT Where The User Believes The

System Should Not Have.

The airbag Vest should be returned to an Alpinestars Tech-Air® dealer along with a detailed

account of the event (including photos, if possible). Alpinestars will then analyze this the

information and respond.

17. Tech-Air® Data Portal

The Tech-Air® Data Portal is an on line resource which records information on the manufacture

and servicing of each individual airbag system. By using the Data Portal users can access the

following information:

• The service history of Tech-Air® system(s) (Race and Street) owned.

• The status of any systems undergoing service.

• Manufacturing information on Tech-Air® system(s) owned.

• Ask to be sent a reminder when the next service is due.

• Download the Tech-Air® Connect software.

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21 EN20 EN

Customer Login

Once registered, customers can login from the Tech-Air® website. This presents a main

screen (Figure 10) where the following information can be seen:

1. Account info - use to verify an update user details.

2. Change Login Password.

3. List of products owned.

4. Download area.

5. News Bulletins

By clicking on one of the products owned, manufacturing information and the service history can

be viewed. If the product has been submitted for servicing, the progress of the service can also

be viewed here.

IMPORTANT! - Download Area

The download area is the most important resource of the data portal.

From here you can download:

- The ﬁrmware upgrade instructions (for changing from race mode to street and vice versa)

- The Material Safety Data Sheet for the shipping or air transport of the system.

- The Tech-Air® Connect software.

- The latest ﬁrmware versions – for both street and race mode.

Note that the download area is customised depending on the products that you own – if the

Street version of the system is additionally owned, further documentation will be available.

18. Street Mode Operation

WARNING! STREET MODE OPERATION DIFFERS FROM RACE MODE! IT IS

CRITICAL THAT USERS, READ AND UNDERSTAND FULLY THE FOLLOWING

INFORMATION WHICH APPLIES TO STREET MODE.

As supplied new the Tech-Air® Race vest has the racing ﬁrmware installed – which is optimized

for detecting crashes on the racetrack. It is possible to install the street ﬁrmware on the unit to

permit the use of the street algorithm for those users who will wear a Compatible Alpinestars

Suit/Jacket on the road for street riding, instead of the race track. The alternative ﬁrmware

version and the instructions on how to change it can be downloaded from the Data Portal.

IMPORTANT! Street mode can only be used if BOTH charges are NOT activated. If the ﬁrst charge

has been activated, then the software will give an error and no protection will be provided.

Figure 10

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

3.

18-1 Tech-Air® ‘Envelope of Protection’

The Tech-Air® Race airbag system when used in street mode oﬀers protection to both riders and

passengers in the event of an accident or other triggering event; however, like any other product

there are limitations to the protections that it can provide.

WARNING! NO PRODUCT CAN PROVIDE COMPLETE PROTECTION FROM

INJURY/OR DEATH, OR DAMAGE TO PERSONS OR PROPERTY IN THE EVENT

OF A FALL, ACCIDENT, COLLISION, IMPACT, LOSS OR CONTROL OR OTHER

EVENT.

The “Envelope of Protection” is used to generally describe situations and/or circumstances where

the Tech-Air® Race airbag system may provide protection (”inside the envelope”), and those

where it will not (“outside the envelope”).

In general, there are three basic factors that determine whether an airbag system will provide

protection to a user:

(a) Whether the forces experienced by the user during an event (such as an accident) occur within

an area covered by the airbag; and

(b) Whether the airbag deploys before the user collides with a vehicle, an obstacle or the ground.

(c) Whether the airbag deploys before the user collides with parts or accessories of their own

motorcycle. For example, mirrors, windscreens or tank bags.

The deployment time consists of the time for the sensors to detect the event plus the time it

takes to ﬁll the airbag fully with gas, which is about 45 milliseconds (“ms”). The time available

to deploy the airbag is dependent upon factors such as the type of the accident, the type of

motorcycle (e.g.: scooter, custom, sports) and the speed of involved vehicles.

The Tech-Air® airbag system provides impact protection for those areas of airbag coverage shown

in Figure 2.

WARNING! The Tech-Air® airbag system provides only limited protection against

forces experienced at the areas of airbag coverage depicted in Figure 2. No

guarantee is given that the Tech-Air® Street airbag system will prevent injuries

(including severe or fatal injuries) inside and/or outside the covered/protected

areas.

WARNING! The Tech-Air® airbag system cannot prevent accidents.

WARNING! No protective device, including the Tech-Air® Street airbag system,

can provide protection against all possible sources of injury and therefore cannot

provide complete protection against injures.

WARNING! Wearing the Tech-Air® airbag system is not a substitute for wearing

other protective motorcycling clothing and gear. To provide full potential

protection, the Tech-Air® airbag system must always be worn in conjunction with

suitable motorcycling gear and apparel that covers the rider from head to toe,

including a helmet, protectors, boots, gloves, and other appropriate protective

equipment.

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Loss of Control Crashes

A Loss of Control Crash often results in the motorcycle falling over during riding. This

commonly happens when tire grip on the roadway is lost during a turn or heavy braking.

These are often similar to crashes in racing (known as “low-side” crashes).

WARNING! The user does not need to be involved in a crash for the system to

deploy. For example, the system may deploy if the user a falls while wearing the

system, such as when dismounting from the motorcycle. These types of “non-

riding” deployments are not failures of the system.

Motorcycle Type

The Tech-Air® airbag system can be utilized, by riders or passengers, on any type of

motorcycle, including electric motorcycles.

Oﬀ-Road Riding

The Tech-Air® airbag system in Street Mode may be used oﬀ road IN A LIMITED CAPACITY

riding on gravel roads only.

For the purpose of using the Tech-Air® airbag system oﬀ road, the deﬁnition of a gravel

road is:

• An unpaved road surfaced with gravel.

• Has a minimum width of 4m (13ft).

• Has no gradients +/-30%.

• Has no ruts, steps or holes greater than 50cm (19.5”) in depth.

IMPORTANT!

The chances of falling are notably higher when riding oﬀ-road, particularly

when a rider is inexperienced. Even when stopped, a fall may cause the Tech-Air® airbag

system to deploy, leaving the user without protection until the system is returned for

recharging (See Section 16).

18-2 Limitations of Use

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system in Street Mode is to be used ONLY

for motorcycling within the conditions and limitations delineated above. The

system is NOT for use in:

• Any racing or competitive events;

• Enduro, Motocross, or Supermoto events;

• Motorcycle stunts; or

• ANY non-motorcycling activities.

WARNING! Due to shocks, movement and/or other input detected and/or received

by the system while in use, although unlikely the system may deploy even though

there is no crash-event.

WARNING! Depending on the motorcycle type, for example a scooter or trials bike,

it cannot be guaranteed that the system will inﬂate before the user collides with

parts or accessories of the motorcycle.

WARNING! Wearing the Tech-Air® Race airbag system in Street Mode is not a

substitute for wearing other protective motorcycling clothing and gear. To oﬀer

full potential protection the system must always be worn in conjunction with

suitable motorcycling apparel that covers the rider from head to toe, including a

helmet, boots, gloves, and other appropriate protective equipment.

Arrival Speed

From 25km/h (15mph)

to 50km/h (31mph)

ANY

From 60° to 120°

Impact Angle

Impact Angle (Fig 11)

23 EN22 EN

Envelope of Protection

Crashes Where a Vehicle Strikes a Stationary Motorcycle:

• Valid for both rider and passenger

Crashes Where a Motorcycle Strikes a Vehicle or Obstacle (Figure 11):

• The above parameters are valid for both the rider and passenger.

IMPORTANT!

If the speed of the vehicle is less than 25km/h, the system may not deploy at

the time of the collision, but may deploy if the rider or passenger suddenly falls from the

motorcycle after the impact.

IMPORTANT!

Figure 11 outlines the envelope where the Tech-Air® Street airbag system is

expected to inﬂate before the user’s body contacts an obstacle. At speeds above 25km/h

the system will deploy regardless of the impact angle, but outside the envelope the airbag

may not be fully inﬂated before there is contact between the obstacle and the user.

Figure 11

50km/h

60°

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18-3 Health and Age Restrictions

IMPORTANT!

In Europe the pyrotechnic directive (2007/23) prohibits the sale of

pyrotechnic articles to anyone under the age of 18.

WARNING! The Tech-Air® Race airbag system in Street Mode must not be handled

by children at any time.

WARNING! In event of a crash, the inﬂation of the airbag will cause sudden

pressure across the back and torso. This can cause discomfort and for users in

poor health this may cause complications.