Review: REV’IT! Overshirt Tracer Air 2
When it’s 100 degrees out, you still need proper riding gear. We explained in our Aug ‘23 issue that hiding your skin from the sun’s rays actually keeps you cooler, so you have no excuse not to wear a jacket—or, in this case, something that looks more like a shirt.
The Tracer Air 2 is full-on mesh, and it’s ideal for temperatures above 80 degrees when you have a big fairing blocking some wind. I tested it on a 2,500-mile ride from Chicago to Santa Monica. From the stifling Midwestern humidity to the dry heat of the west, most of my riding days were in the 90s and 100s. The hottest day was 113 degrees.
The humidity lasted until Oklahoma City. I didn’t bother taking the Tracer Air 2 off each time we stopped for photos, but, somewhat surprisingly, it never got uncomfortable. One of the highlights of this jacket is its light weight. There’s really not much to it. Some buttons, two chest pockets that are there more for looks, and two internal pockets. I did find myself wishing for a regular side pocket, though, and for one little pocket on the left sleeve. You can put your earplugs in there, your ICE info, and—more recently—your credit card. When getting gas, you just have to hold your arm up to the card reader. The collar is stylish and adds a little class. I wore this jacket in the airplane, and I bet nobody knew it was motorcycle gear.
Once in the glorious western dry heat, I often soaked my technical base layer in water for instant air conditioning (for 15 minutes). A few times, I wetted the REV’IT! piece, too, and I could watch how it dried up.
After 17 days on the road, I was pleasantly surprised by how clean the jacket stayed. Even though I was behind the Road Glide’s fairing, no bugs or dust clung to it. Cleaning is easy as well, with an inside-out wash and hang drying.
On the protection side, the super thin Seesmart CE-level 1 pads don’t exactly inspire confidence. You have little pads in the shoulders and elbows, and a back protector is optional. Most importantly, the Cordura 750D outer shell and the PWR fabric provide sufficient cut, tear, and abrasion resistance. If you find yourself sliding down the road, you will get some bruises but at least your skin will be intact. I will add my airbag vest underneath the Tracer Air 2 in the future. A big plus for REV’IT! for including reflective panels. They’re welded to the fabric, making the garment a little safer.
Pair the Tracer Air 2 with some riding jeans and brown boots, and you got yourself a classic look that will go well with any cruiser or vintage motorcycle. I thoroughly enjoyed looking way cooler than I actually am.
REV’IT! Overshirt Tracer Air 2
$299.99
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: black, brown, Camo Dark Gray