Choosing the Best Motorcycle Race Suit for Track Riding

Our Verdict and How We Chose

The right motorcycle race suit ensures that your gear maintains its structural integrity and provides consistent protection during a full season of track use. Success on the circuit depends on a balance between mobility and the durability of the protective layers.

The Alpinestars Atem 316651512354 is the choice for riders who want a premium 2-Piece construction with DFS technology for high-impact zones. You might prefer the PERRINI W333BK-S Leather Drag Suit for its 1.4-1.5mm cowhide or the RST S1 D3O Motorcycle Race Suit for its specific D3O armor integration.

We selected these options by screening 10 motorcycle race suits and comparing 8 at Used New Car. The selection covers a price range from $199.99 to $1299.95, with a median price of $418.99.

Check the scope to understand which brands and styles are included in this guide.

Follow the buying guide to learn the key criteria for selecting the perfect suit.

Use the audience checklist to find the best match for your specific riding style.

Motorcycle Race Suits for Track Riding Compared Side by Side

Prices are approximate and move frequently – check the current price before deciding. “Not stated” means the manufacturer listing does not give that figure – we do not estimate it.

The Alpinestars Atem 316651512354 fits track riding best because it includes an aero hump and CE-approved GP-R knee/shin protectors.

Each Pick for Track Riding, Reviewed in Detail

The 3 picks below are reviewed in the same order as the cards above.

Alpinestars Atem 316651512354

The Alpinestars Atem 316651512354 is a premium choice for track riding because it balances high-level protection with the mobility required for aggressive lean angles.

What we like: This suit features 1.3 mm leather, which provides sufficient material to withstand heavy abrasion during a long slide on asphalt. The inclusion of Alpinestars Dynamic Friction Shield (DFS) technology—protective plates designed to manage friction—on the shoulders, elbows, and knees provides specialized protection for high-speed circuit use. It also includes an aero hump to improve aerodynamics and an Alpinestars one-piece GP-R knee/shin protector with a floating construction to allow for better movement.

Keep in mind: Because the 1.3 mm leather sits at the lower end of the professional range, this suit is best suited for riders seeking a balance of weight and protection rather than those seeking maximum material thickness.

PERRINI W333BK-S Leather Drag Suit

The PERRINI W333BK-S Leather Drag Suit offers a high-value option for track use, providing thicker leather and specialized ventilation for high-intensity riding.

What we like: This suit uses 1.4-1.5mm thick drum dyed top-grain cowhide leather, which provides the necessary thickness to endure a full season of track use. It features perforated leather for better airflow and dual density armor at the shoulders and elbows to manage impact energy. The 9.46-pound weight makes it a manageable option for long sessions on the circuit.

Keep in mind: This suit is designed as a drag suit, which may result in a different fit or silhouette than a standard racing bike suit.

RST S1 D3O Motorcycle Race Suit

The RST S1 D3O Motorcycle Race Suit is a highly-rated entry-level track suit that utilizes advanced materials to provide reliable protection for circuit riding.

What we like: This suit utilizes D3O Level 1 armor—a material that hardens on impact—at the shoulders, elbows, hips, and long knee protectors. The fullgrain leather construction is paired with AST+ stretch panels to improve the range of motion during leaning. It also includes integrated pockets for optional back and chest protection to customize the level of coverage.

Keep in mind: The leather thickness is not stated in the product facts, so you should check the RST size guide to ensure the fit allows for full mobility.

1-Piece vs 2-Piece Suits for Track Use

A 2-piece suit offers easier entry and exit and a greater range of motion for the rider, while a 1-piece suit provides a continuous aerodynamic seal and maximum coverage. The Alpinestars Atem 316651512354, PERRINI W333BK-S Leather Drag Suit, and RST S1 D3O Motorcycle Race Suit are all 2-piece constructions, prioritizing ease of movement and convenience during track day transitions. To decide which fits your needs, consider your priority: if you prefer maximum aerodynamic integrity, a 1-piece suit is the standard, but if you prioritize mobility and ease of use, these 2-piece options are the better choice.

If you are interested in the PERRINI W335R-M, see how the PERRINI W335R-M Suit performs in our detailed analysis.

The Specs That Decide a Racing Bike Suit for Track Riding

Leather thickness between 1.2 mm and 1.5 mm for track durability

You should look for a leather thickness between 1.2 mm and 1.5 mm to withstand heavy abrasion during a long slide on the track. The PERRINI W333BK-S Leather Drag Suit states a 1.4-1.5mm thickness, which provides the necessary durability for a full season of use. The Alpinestars Atem 316651512354 states 1.3 mm leather, which covers the minimum requirement for track riding but sits at the easier end of the protective range. While custom-made bespoke suits represent the ultimate performance ceiling for hide quality, these off-the-shelf options provide accessible protection for circuit riding. You need to know that while thicker hide improves abrasion resistance, it also increases heat retention and weight.

Stretch panels in racing suits for better body position mobility

Prioritize suits with stretch panels to maintain mobility while tucked in a racing crouch. The Alpinestars Atem 316651512354, PERRINI W333BK-S Leather Drag Suit, and RST S1 D3O Motorcycle Race Suit all state they include stretch panels, which allow for better movement in the torso, arms, and crotch. These panels prevent the leather from binding against the body during extreme lean angles. When choosing, look for “motion panels” or “stretch panels” to ensure the suit does not restrict emergency movement or high-speed body positioning. A suit that is too tight can cause skin-to-leather friction, while one that is too loose can impede your ability to move quickly.

CE-certified armor placement for high-speed impact protection

Verify that the suit includes CE-certified armor at the shoulders, elbows, and hips to meet safety standards for high-speed impacts. The RST S1 D3O Motorcycle Race Suit states it features D3O Level 1 armor at these points, while the Alpinestars Atem 316651512354 states it uses CE-certified protectors and a one-piece GP-R knee/shin protector with floating construction. The PERRINI W333BK-S Leather Drag Suit states it uses dual density armor. For the best protection, ensure the armor is positioned over the joints and impact zones. While Alpinestars and Dainese set the global benchmark for R&D and safety certifications, these models provide the specific armor types needed for track safety.

Perforated leather in racing suits for high-speed heat management

Select a suit with perforated leather to manage heat buildup during intense track sessions. The PERRINI W333BK-S Leather Drag Suit and RST S1 D3O Motorcycle Race Suit both state they feature perforated leather, which allows for airflow to the rider. The Alpinestars Atem 316651512354 does not state it has perforation. Proper ventilation is necessary because full-body suits can quickly become uncomfortably hot under heavy use. You should check the specific placement of the perforations to ensure they cover the highest-heat areas like the chest and back.

CE AAA abrasion resistance ratings for high-speed track safety

You need a suit that meets established safety standards, such as the CE AAA rating found on the RST S1 D3O Motorcycle Race Suit, to ensure the gear can handle high-speed impacts. For high-speed track riding, you need a leather thickness of at least 1.2 mm to prevent the suit from melting or tearing during a slide. The Alpinestars Atem 316651512354 and PERRINI W333BK-S Leather Drag Suit both meet these requirements with 1.3 mm and 1.5 mm respectively. Because leather is the primary material for durability and heat resistance, look for “fullgrain” or “cowhide” to ensure the hide maintains its integrity under friction. You first identify your size requirements, then compare the leather thickness and armor ratings against your riding goals, and finally select a suit that balances these protections with your mobility needs.

To better understand technical specifications, you should review motorcycle race suit terms and specs explained in plain language.

The Jobs Buyers Ask About, Checked Against Each Pick

Each row is a job this page’s buyers ask about, worked out from each pick’s listed CE protection level and leather thickness and armor density and a typical need for the job.

The needs are typical figures for each job, not manufacturer claims, and each pick’s result is worked out from its listed specifications. Your own job’s figure is the one that decides.

Who Buys Motorcycle Race Suits, and What It Really Costs

What These Racing Bike Suits Need, and What to Check on Arrival

Preparing for your first track day

You need to ensure you have the correct gear and preparation ready before your first ride to ensure the suit performs as expected. Every motorcycle race suit listed here requires a break-in period, which is the time needed for the leather to mold to your body shape for a better fit.

• The Alpinestars Atem 316651512354 includes an aero hump, which is a streamlined aerodynamic shape on the back of the suit to improve stability at high speeds.
• The RST S1 D3O and PERRINI W333BK-S do not state a hump is included, so you may need to purchase a separate one to maintain high-speed stability.
• You should buy a Leather Conditioner to maintain material integrity and suppleness during the break-in period.
• The Alpinestars Atem 316651512354, PERRINI W333BK-S, and RST S1 D3O all feature stretch panels to assist with movement, but you should still check the specific size guide for each model to ensure the correct fit.

Verifying your order upon arrival

Return policies and coverage vary by seller and country, so you should verify the following details before the return window closes. Because leather is a high-value material, confirming the condition of the hide is the priority.

• Check the leather for any surface abrasions or punctures, as 1.3 mm to 1.5 mm hide is difficult to repair once it is damaged.
• Confirm the presence of the D3O Level 1 armor in the RST S1 D3O or the dual density armor in the PERRINI W333BK-S to ensure the protection is correctly seated.
• Verify that the Alpinestars Atem 316651512354 has the DFS (Dynamic Friction Shield) protectors on the shoulders, elbows, and knees, as these are specific to this model’s design.
• Ensure all zippers function smoothly, as these are primary points of failure for 2-piece racing bike suits.

The first thing you should do when the suit arrives is put it on and check the mobility of the stretch panels to ensure you can move freely before heading to the track.

Consult the FAQ for answers to common questions about leather types and safety standards.

Review the minimum requirements to ensure your gear meets essential safety certifications.

View the comparison table to see technical specifications side by side.

Buying Questions About Motorcycle Race Suits for Track Riding, Answered

Which motorcycle race suit is best for long track sessions?

The motorcycle race suit that is best for long track sessions depends on your priority for leather thickness and protection. The PERRINI W333BK-S Leather Drag Suit provides 1.4-1.5mm thick drum dyed top-grain cowhide leather, which is enough to withstand heavy abrasion over a long slide. For those seeking a premium standard, the Alpinestars Atem 316651512354 features 1.3 mm leather and DFS (Dynamic Friction Shield) technology, which is a protective surface that helps manage friction during a slide.

How do I know if the armor is replaceable if it gets damaged?

Determining if the armor is replaceable depends on the specific construction of the motorcycle race suit. The RST S1 D3O Motorcycle Race Suit includes integrated pockets for optional back and chest protection, allowing for easier removal or replacement of those specific components.

Is there a significant price jump between “track-ready” and “street-legal” suits?

The price jump between track-ready and street-legal suits is often determined by the leather thickness and specialized safety ratings. While the Alpinestars provides a professional standard, the PERRINI provides a functional leather thickness of 1.5mm for a lower cost.

Which motorcycle race suit is best for a beginner?

The motorcycle race suit that is best for a beginner is often the one that balances protection with a manageable price point. The RST S1 D3O Motorcycle Race Suit offers D3O Level 1 armor at the shoulders, elbows, hips, and long knee protectors for $649.99. This suit provides fullgrain leather and AST+ stretch panels, which help with mobility during your first times on the circuit.

See our top picks for a quick overview of the best suits available.

Find the setup and warranty notes regarding sizing support and manufacturer guarantees.

Explore the detailed reviews for an in-depth look at each individual product.

If a full suit is not your preference, explore the alternatives to a motorcycle race suit to find other protective options.

Who Should Skip These Biker Racing Suits

If you are looking for the highest level of protection, none of the options we evaluated reach the performance ceiling of custom-made bespoke suits. These selections are designed for off-the-shelf retail use and do not provide the unique anatomical molding of a custom build.

If you require a suit for daily commuting rather than circuit riding, these options may not be suitable. You should instead look for The Motorcycle Race Suits That Work Best for Street Riding.