1 piece or 2 piece suit

apfire26 · 08-04-2006, 7:23 PM

I'm starting to get the track itch, but before I can go do a track day I've heard I need some more protection.
What are some pros and cons about a 1 piece leather suit compared to a 2 piece? I know nothing about this topic so any help would be nice. I can't even afford the suit yet but I need to know what to save for.
Also, do most tracks require a 1 piece or will they allow a 2 piece? Are there safety concerns with a 2 piece?

See what I mean....I know nothing. Thanks.

sheepofblue · 08-04-2006, 7:32 PM

1 piece is stronger thus safer
2 piece is easier to get in and out of. Two piece is allowed but most require a 360º zipper

seamus · 08-04-2006, 7:35 PM

I like my one piece although I have trouble getting into and out of it at times. I feel safer without the zipper connecting the top and bottom.

2 piece will allow you to use just the jacket on the street if you so choose.

Most 2 pieces are allowed at track days if they have the 360 degree zipper holding the upper and lower together. Check with the specific track day organizer to make sure.

Make sure to save a little extra for a quality back protector too.

fastjester · 08-04-2006, 7:39 PM

I just bought a one piece. I had a two piece. So here is my

The two piece was nice in the fact that you could take off the jacket and cool off. But the way it zipped together didn't thrill me. It was a J/R and the jacket zipped to the pants with a neoprene type cloth.

The one piece feels better while riding so my vote is for the one piece.

ucfmotorcycle1 · 08-04-2006, 7:40 PM

I bought a teknic Violator 1-piece brand new for less than $300 on ebay. If you can afford a track day you can afford that.
1-piece is better because there are less seams. There are alot of 2 piece suits out that really don't give you enough protection. But there are good quality 2-piece suits also. For track days as long as you have a 2 piece that zips together a full 360 degrees then you will be ok. If you start racing you will need a 1 piece.

Besides that don't forget the boots, gloves, and back protector. Check online for good prices because the stuff retail can be very pricey.

RC51Mike · 08-04-2006, 7:59 PM

I have a Bates two piece suit with a full zipper and I like the versatility. On track days in the paddock, it's easy to take the jacket off and leave the pants on between sessions. I've crashed it twice on track and the zipper was not compromised in the least. I think the quality of the suit matters more. I went with a two piece because the suit doubles as my street and sport touring suit as well and wanted the same protection in either venue.

apfire26 · 08-04-2006, 8:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RC51Mike

I have a Bates two piece suit with a full zipper and I like the versatility. On track days in the paddock, it's easy to take the jacket off and leave the pants on between sessions. I've crashed it twice on track and the zipper was not compromised in the least. I think the quality of the suit matters more. I went with a two piece because the suit doubles as my street and sport touring suit as well and wanted the same protection in either venue.

Thats what I need. I will mainly use the jacket on the street. But I do need the pants for a possible track day and my rides on the local back road track.
Thanks for the help.