Crashed Kit

How Ben’s kit coped with Rockingham crash…

HJC RPHA70 helmet £350

I pitched forwards so the helmet hit the ground first. Notice the 10cm-diameter white impact crater on the right forehead and the scratched visor. There is an internal drop-down visor that still works fine.

Knox back protector £40

Long Level 1 back protector held in place with a Knox armoured shirt. Marks on my back show the protector’s triangular pattern, so my back was hit. Back and ribs ached. I’m upgrading to Level 2 back, rib and chest protection.

Held Yagusa jacket

Scratches cover the plastic/titanium armour and the forearm leather is worn. Grass stains slant across the rear. Nowhere has the leather been holed, and there aren’t even any cracks in the beaten-up shoulder armour. Amazing.

Held Yagusa pants

Slight marks on the legs. Held’s soft hip protectors mean no pain in the pelvis even after repeated tumbles. Pants and jacket are back at Held being repaired and repainted. At £967 it’s an expensive set, but I can’t fault it.

Furygan Fit-r 2 gloves £130

There is considerable ripping, scratching and sliding. But considering the impact they endured that is not surprising. However, despite the damage they protected my hands, but are now headed for the bin.

TCX RT Race Pro boots £300

Top-range TCX race boots: sliders show impact and sliding marks, but the rest is only scuffed. The inner boot is a pig to get into but kept secure in the crash. No pain at all in my feet or legs. I’d happily use the same pair again.