Once your Helite airbag is fitted and ready, using it day to day is straightforward, but a few practical points are worth knowing before you head out.
Weather
Helite's electronic vest is water resistant, and the user guide states you can ride in rain or snow without needing additional protection over it. In sustained heavy rain, some riders still prefer a rain cape over the top for comfort, though this is a matter of personal comfort rather than a requirement for the system to work properly.
Wearing a backpack
You can wear a backpack over your airbag gear, as long as the straps are adjusted loosely enough that they do not restrict the airbag from inflating properly.
Do you need a separate back protector?
Most Helite garments already include a rigid back protector built in behind the airbag, so an additional one usually is not necessary. One model, the Airnest, is compatible with a separate back protector if you would rather keep using your own.
Road, off-road and track use
Helite airbags are built for a wide range of riding styles, including road, off-road and track use, provided the rider stays seated on the bike. A dedicated track-focused model is also available.
Riding two-up
The electronic vest can be worn by both rider and pillion, and any number of vests can be paired to the same fork sensor.
Switching an electronic vest off during other travel
If you are travelling by car, train, bus, plane or boat at speeds over 20km/h, switch the electronic vest off first, since it is designed to sense motion and could otherwise be triggered by the movement of that transport. The same applies during long periods of storage, such as over winter. Day to day riding does not need this, since the vest goes into sleep mode automatically when idle and wakes again as soon as you move.
A note on the electronic system's sensors
The electronic system is not suitable for everyone. We cover who should avoid it, and why, in our electronic system guide.
If you have questions about which Helite model suits your riding, get in touch with our team at contact@helite.co.nz
Frequently asked questions
Can I ride in the rain with my airbag on?
Yes. The electronic vest is water resistant and designed for use in rain or snow without extra protection, though some riders add a rain cape in sustained heavy rain purely for comfort.
Can I wear a backpack over my airbag?
Yes, as long as the straps are adjusted loosely enough that they do not restrict the airbag from inflating properly.
Do I need a separate back protector as well?
Usually not. Most models already include one.
Do I need to switch my electronic vest off during a car or plane trip?
Yes, if travelling above 20km/h by transport other than the motorcycle itself, switch it off, and also switch it off for long periods of storage.
Can I use my Helite airbag off-road or on the track?
Yes, provided you stay seated on the bike. A dedicated track-focused model is also available.