Kawasaki Blue Max Jacket

KAWASAKI BLUE MAX JACKET

CW EVALUATION

Looks like denim, protects like leather

JUDGING A BOOK BY ITS COVER. WE'RE told, can be a bad thing. and judging a riding jacket by its color can be equally as erroneous. At least when that jacket is the Kawasaki Blue Max.

Looking for all the world like a stylish, stone-washed, denim jacket. the Blue Max —made for Kawasaki by Hein Gericke—is actually a functional, all-leather riding jacket. This bit of trickery is so convincing that most people don't believe the denimlook Max is leather until they've inspected the material close-up.

The Max's loose-fitting, blousonstyle cut allows plenty of room for layering in cold weather, and makes the jacket a natural for riders of touring, standard or cruiser-style bikes. The sleeves are cut with a forward rotation and they don't pull up or bind when riding, courtesy of a large pleat in the jacket's back. For added protection in the event of a get-off.

there's padding at the elbows and shoulders. A dropped, padded lower back, wide stretch bands at the waist, and elastic cuffs keep wind blast at bay. A pleated nylon lining covers a thin layer of insulation.

Warm-weather riding comfort is enhanced by two zippered air inlets in the breast of the jacket and two outlets in its back. Once opened, these vents let air pass through perforated nylon backings.

Although this handsome jacket can be worn almost anywhere and not stand out as riding gear, the motorcyclist's storage requirements haven't been forgotten. Four zippered slash pockets—two on each side—are concealed in the jacket's layered styling, and there’s an inside pocket with a snap closure.

If you're looking for a functional riding jacket that doubles as a stylish piece of sportswear, the Blue Max is for you. It is available only from Ka wasaki dealers in unisex sizes from XS to XL for $364. with an XXL model selling for $389.