Pacwit 5 Way Shootout - BMW Comfortshell Review
New level of comfort
As the warmer weather approaches us down at the bottom of the earth, we all look forward to longer days and more sunshine, but don't always look forward to finding gear that will be as changeable as the weather conditions. Perish the thought of travelling the open road with the most beautiful scenery laid forth, and not being able to enjoy it through the sweaty sweltering heat coupled with an occasional shower. Enter the magical world of the BMW comfort shell. This sporty all-weather touring suit allows you to ride in a myriad of conditions You'll be as versatile as a Platypus, and more evolved than the regular jackets on the market today.
We're in the know-how
This light weight cousin of the "Streetguard 2" allows for most of the same conditions without the bulk or heaviness. There is no need for shucking unneeded layers. The Comfort Shell is wrapped together with a 3 layer laminate of Dynatec, protective material that has a high melting point and extremely resistant to tears and abrasions, and the revolutionary "intelligent" membrane c_change. C_change was developed together by BMW Motorrad and Schoeller. Explaining how the fabric works is best described by stating that the pore size, similar to that of a fir cone, fans out at higher temperatures and close in cold ones; inevitably adapting to the ambient temperature to control the breathing capability of the clothing. In addition, the membrane is flexible, which allowed BMW Motorrad to develop a fully elastic outer material adding to the comfort. While the Dyantec is placed on the important high crash areas such as the shoulders knees, seat, back and forearms, the C-change adorns the rest of the suit allowing for breath-ability and adaption to the temperatures. The makeup of Keprotec consists of Cordura, Dynafil TS-70, Kevlar and polyurethane and has the ability repelling water, oil and dirt. For those who do care about environmental impact, no fluorochemicals are used in the manufacturing of C_change, giving it a Bluesign standard and making it environment compatible. Isn't it nice having a clear conscience while you ride?
Cha Cha Cha Chaaaaange
While my first impression of this jacket was to take it off immediately, I resisted all urges and kept it on for a few minutes until the amazing armour contoured around every curve and corner until it felt like it was no longer there. The play-dough like armour feels quite substantial, giving you superior comfort and protection like nothing before. New removable CE Protectors developed by BMW Motorrad and certified according to the EN 1621 standard: NP protectors at the shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, adjustable to 2 different heights, and in the back. They offer superior damping properties and are easy to identify due to their orange colour. The suit is very light, comprising of Dynatec and the fully elastic C_change material for comfort and an inner mesh to hold in the armour. I felt the liner mesh was a bit scratchy to the bare skin and resorted to wearing a Helly Hanson long sleeve Dry underneath. The jacket and pants are also fitted with a 40cm connecting zipper and reflective material on both sleeves ensures all round visibility.
When it comes to adverse weather conditions the C_change blocks wind and water penetration via specially engineered materials and sealed seams. Due to the lower level of body moisture development in cold weather or during periods of inactivity, the structure of the membrane closes, retaining the heat directly at the body and reducing breath-ability by 50%. Shivering or chilling is suppose to be prevented, however, I found that I required an additional layer underneath in the lower temperature range (from 8 -14 degrees, 46-57F) as it was on the cool side. This being said, I tend to get quite cold easily, and even in 15 knot wind on a ridge in 14 degree temperature Joe was shivering in his Rev'it! while I was comfy in my shell. Once this temperature was above 14 degrees (57F), the Comfortshell was in its element allowing for 100% breath-ability. At standstill conditions, the material allowed for air to flow freely, then, as I increased speed it started to close the pores, then returning to a stop it exhaled again. In theory the rain was kept at bay, but it completely saturated the c_change fabric leaving it heavy and cold on the skin. After a 2-1/2 hour ride in constant rain, I felt pretty miserable and cold in this suit. My recommendation is to only wear this if it calls for occasional showers. For warmer weather, BMW provided water repellent ventilation zippers are front and in the back to optimise the climatic comfort on hot days (I will have to revisit this once the temperature heat up here). Water repellent outer pockets 2x jacket, 2x pants, 2 waterproof inside pockets in the jacket. At higher temperatures, the structure of the c_change membrane opens as body moisture levels rise. Excess heat can escape to the outside and you are left feeling pleasantly temperate.
Camouflage for a concrete jungle
The first thing I will mention here is the brilliant blue colour the jacket comes in (it also comes in black). Feeling like a bit of a blue jay this jacket seems to bring a smile to your face, and you don't feel like you're wearing an over grown black potato sack. The tailoring has been updated, the cut is modern, and the menagerie of fabrics produces a contemporary jacket. Though functional, I found the Velcro sleeves look a bit on the cheep side; however they did their job and were very easy to use when you are trying to fasten over your gloves. I just love the fit and style of the pants with an adjustable waistband and, the material is so light and the armour fits the knees perfectly you forget it's there. In addition, the material has preformed sleeves and knees for an optimal seating position on the motorcycle, this makes for a very comfortable ride. The sizing is not as plentiful as the Streetguard 2; not offering short men's sizes but it does cover quite a few options still.
Recommendation:
I would suggest this product for late spring, summer and early fall. The way the c_change "breaths" it allows for ventilation when you need it and closed when you don't. Ideal windy mild weather conditions, occasional showers and warm and cool temperature down to 8 degree Celsius (with additional layer under)
Compatibility:
These items are interchangeable with other BMW gear that has the 40mm zipper
Durability:
Strong zippers, components, stitching, removable internal mesh liner and protectors.
Conclusion:
This jacket is great for locations that have quick bursts of rain, cool mornings to warm days; you won't need to bring a waterproof cover, its all done with one suit. It really is only a shell, if it does cool down too much as you will have to wear another layer under. Bottom line, With a price of $699 for the jacket and $499 for the pants, I think it's expensive for being a warm weather only jacket, but if you only ride in 12+ temperature, then it covers the bases for ventilation and rain protection. In addition, rumour has it that the new Streetguard will be composed of C_change material, I'm not convinced of the c_change for rain but with the right liner it could offer a four season option for the Streetguard.
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