Bionic 2 for men (left) and women.

Alpinestars has released a trio of jackets designed to add protection to riders on the road and off.

The Bionic 2 Protection Jacket comes in flavours for men, women, and kids, and contains CE elbow and shoulder protectors, a chest plate, stretch mesh lining, and a "Bionic Race Back Protector" that's removable and has the highest level of CE Certification possible (that would be level 2).

It's thinner and lighter than previous armour but offers twice the protection to the rider of Level 1 stuff.

Arm and shoulder fit can be adjusted, and there's a dual waist with kidney support closure straps.

Prices range from $180 for the youth jacket to $300 for an adult model that serves as an "outer protection" jacket — but that's meant for off-road riders. The Bionic 2 Protection jacket shown could serve as an inner armour system for street riders, worn under an unpadded leather jacket. It's $230.

See www.alpinestars.com for info.