Knox Aegis Back Protector - Review http://www.bikechatter.net/media/reviews/photos/thumbnail/320x320s/92/77/1f/1001_knoxaeg1_1249662129.jpg Hot

Light and flexible back protection for track and road riders, this is both comfortable and reassuring.

Top Protection

Initial Thoughts

This is now my fourth back protector on test and so far the one I am most impressed with, initially it looks like there is a lot to it that might go wrong or not work but as you flex it around you soon realise that this is about as close to an external spine as you will get, allowing free movement to a certain angle and then locking up to prevent damage in case of an incident. The knox has a quality feel to it throughout from the thick velcro and kidney protector right through to the padded and vented back - you can tell someone has done their research before producing this.

Construction

First and foremost this thing is well engineered, with double velcro straps for not only your waist adjustment but also to then adjust the position of the kidney protectors and the position of the waist band Knox have gone to town to ensure this protector fits the highest number of people possible and is remains comfortable while on, the back plates all articulate incredibly well and when it is strapped to your back it follows your body position perfectly - something that other 'slab' type back protectors cannot even begin to compete with.

Speaking of comfort though the fabric and padded back is not only raised but also vented to keep the heat from building up under the protector that would ordinarily lead to a sticky and generally uncomfortable fit, even in 25 degree heat the Aegis stayed remarkably cosy and really did give a reassuring feel of confidence in the product. The Aegis moves with you as you slide across the bike in the many positions used to corner and brake and at no point did it feel intrusive or restrictive.

Fitment wise I went for the 8 plate model that corresponded with my torso height on the Knox fitting chart, this is something I have only seen Knox offer on their back protectors. I have a wide back and  the protector covers it well but I wonder if it may be a touch too wide for most other users, I also found the length of the Aegis a smidge too long for my textile suit to zip up with the full zip but no such problem with my leathers - looking back at other back armour though this seems to be universal.

Protection wise the Aegis is CE certified to Level 2 and is right on the money for that level of protection, many of the older style units cannot match this so you have a product that is ready for road and track riding.

• 7 sizes available to fit all riders.


• The most technically advanced back protector available and is the result of an intensive 12 month R & D programme.


• The new Aegis is 30% lighter than its predecessor.


• It is low profile under clothing and is totally flexible for comfort and fit.


• A system of flex channels allow it to sculpt around the back, making it more comfortable to wear under tight outer riding apparel.


• The new Aegis is completely breathable with a superior air venting system for maximum air flow to keep riders cool.


• The spine section articulates freely moving with the rider but at the same time ensuring maximum protection is maintained in all positions.


• A multi position waist strap system gives precision fitting. It ensures that the rider can fix the back protector in the correct position so it does not move upwards during use.


• A new integral shoulder strap slider system allows the straps to adjust automatically to the correct position during use.


• Fully adjustable and removable kidney protectors in soft PU give added performance.


• CE approved EN1621-1 Level 2


• Optional CE approved chest protector can be purchased separately.