At Rs 8,000, this is one of the best looking jackets in the market which also happens to be good and affordable!
I was looking to pick up a new jacket for myself as I had grown out of my Dainese Air Frame D1. My added weight has all gone to my tummy and the Dainese believes everyone who rides motorcycles has to be as fit as Rossi, so we no longer fit together. In just about the right time, the good folks at Reise sent the Dalton Jacket for review. And when I saw the Khaki – it was impressive at first sight. It was time to pull the seniority card and take it home.
First impressions
The jacket I picked was XL size. It was a perfect fit for my 5’7” 82kg frame. Usually, I struggle to either have the right belly space in a jacket or have the correct length of sleeves and protection. This time around – it was almost perfect. The L size would have been a more natural fit for my arms and shoulders, but then the years of pizzas and colas would have immediately shown. XL managed to be easier around the waist while not being too loose on the shoulders. The fit feels relaxed and natural – just what you need in a daily riding jacket.
The materials feel premium too. The mesh feels sturdy and the PU-coated polyester feels rugged enough to withstand impacts and scratches. What I particularly like is this color. The top part has a desert camo-style design and the rest is a light tan and khaki shade. This feels like a casual, everyday jacket more than a sporty riding jacket – a look that most brands seem to be going towards and is oversaturated at this point. This is something fresh.
Protection and comfort
What I like about the armour on this jacket is that it is ventilated. Combined with a full mesh frame, it remains very breathable. Even on a hot day, the jacket manages to offer excellent ventilation. I wore this jacket on two very hot occasions – one in Goa for the 390 Adventure media ride experience and the other one was a casual track day at NATRAX with Jawa motorcycles. On both days, I did not have any complaints about ventilation, protection or fit. This has also become my daily driver to office on various motorcycles and scooters as well.
|
Area |
Armour |
|
Elbows |
EASYFLEX CE Certified Safetech (Italian) Level 2 Protectors |
|
Shoulders |
EASYFLEX CE Certified Safetech (Italian) Level 2 Protectors |
|
Back |
VISCOFLEX CE Certified Safetech (Italian) Level 2 Protectors |
|
Chest |
VISCOFLEX CE Certified Safetech (Italian) Level 2 Protectors |
The negatives so far
The only issue in the fit is the collar. With the zipper all the way up, the top edge of the collar rubs against the neck causing discomfort. If it was better designed or was coated with a smoother and softer material, this problem could have been avoided. And yes, it is a light colour so it does get dirty more easily. But I am not shy of washing my gear so this, in particular, is not a problem for me.
I will continue using the jacket for another 6 months at least which will include much hotter temperatures – which is going to be the true test of this jacket. Stay tuned to BikeDekho for more detailed coverage.
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