When it comes to motorcycle apparel, there’s definitely a moment of truth. For some riders that boils down to safety; for others comfort is the primary concern. When a jacket addresses both of those needs, the designers have done their job. Speed and Strength’s Moment of Truth motorcycle jacket and gloves live up to the name by offering riders comfortable and stylish apparel with standard safety features. I tested this gear over the course of several weeks in an array of riding conditions.
The Moment of Truth Jacket has an AR600 textile and AR400 super stretch-fit frame that is breathable as well as form-fitting. The size Large fit my 200-lb, 6-foot-1 frame like a glove thanks to waist and sleeve adjusters. After dialing in the jacket, I found it well suited for a range of riding styles. I enjoyed outings on sportbikes, standards, and cruisers, and the gear adapted to each scenario and the ergonomics with ease. This three-season jacket caters to a broad temperature range. I’ve worn it in the heat of the summer as well as on cooler fall days and appreciated its versatility.
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The jacket comes with removable CE Level 2 shoulder and elbow protectors and a removable CE Level 1 back protector. The armor doesn’t make those areas of the jacket feel cumbersome or rigid. The back of the jacket also includes two belt loops to connect the jacket to pants for better protection. And for visibility, the jacket comes with reflective trim in all three colorways: black, black and gray (shown), or black and red.
A jacket’s storage is an important consideration. The standard outside pockets on the jacket can accommodate a large mobile phone without the zipper feeling tight. The jacket also comes with two inside pockets, one outfitted with a hook for a key ring and the second a cavernous option for an extra helmet faceshield.
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The Moment of Truth jacket is a sensible option for riders looking for a versatile piece of apparel. It comes in sizes S-3XL and retails for $199.95.
Speed and Strength’s Moment of Truth Gloves are constructed from a combination of leather and vented textile fabric and incorporate thermoplastic knuckle protectors. For further safety, the palms are reinforced with leather and include a thermoplastic-rubber palm slider. The short neoprene cuff closes with a hook-and-loop strap on the inside of the wrist, but the textile fabric in the glove can get caught in that hook-and-loop strap, so opening and closing with the leather-covered fingers is advised. Those fingers are also touchscreen sensitive, so riders can use mobile devices while wearing the gloves.
The Moment of Truth gloves are lightweight and, given their venting, are best suited for warm weather. They remain comfortable through extended rides. And like the Moment of Truth jacket, the gloves come in black, black and gray, or black and red. They are available in sizes S-2XL, with the XL fitting my 4-inch-wide hand in a snug but not tight manner. These gloves retail for $59.95.