Harley-Davidson has released a large range of adventure riding gear to accompany the launch of the Pan America. Instead of trying to build a complete range of its own gear from the get-go, Harley has teamed up with REV’IT! to create a range that will provide the quality, versatility and practicality demanded by adventure touring riders.
At the launch, every journo was given a Grit jacket to use and keep and it performed as faultlessly as you’d expect from a top-quality jacket on its first day in the field. The press release describes the Grit like this:
“Designed for four-season use, the Grit jacket and pants feature a removable thermal liner and a removable waterproof liner. The rider can use the thermal liner in cooler weather or on the highway and remove it for warmer conditions or exertion during trail riding. The thermal and waterproof liners can be combined for comfort in cold, wet weather. If it’s warm and wet, the rider can choose to use only the waterproof liner inside the jacket. The rider gets the versatility of adjustable comfort.
“The Grit jacket and pants feature the highly breathable Hydratex® 3L membrane technology lining a breathable shell designed to repel rain and wind with abrasion and tear resistance, offering the rider gear that is rugged and comfortable. The liner is detachable from the pants.
“Because the Hydratex® 3L liner is detachable, the Grit jacket is not fully waterproof. Both jacket and pants feature VCS Aquadefence, a ventilation system designed to enhance airflow in warm-weather riding. Vents can be opened and closed with one gloved hand. Mechanical fasteners secure the vents in an open position, using a system similar to a magnet. When opened, the VCS Aquadefence system allows direct ventilation to the body. When the zipper or panel is closed, it seals to the incorporated rain gutter and the jacket and pants are windproof and waterproof. These features combine to offer the rider multiple ventilation options while retaining waterproof performance when the vents are closed for versatile all-conditions comfort.
“PW Shell 500D textile offers tear and abrasion resistance and durability. The customer can be confident this gear will stand up to off-road use.”
There are CE Level 2 protectors at the elbows, shoulders and back.
I’ll publish a more detailed review of the Grit at a later time, but so far I’m impressed — it feels really well designed and built, with the vents and linings you need for a four-season jacket. For summer riding, with the massive vents fully open and the other linings removed, you should get plenty of airflow.
On the bike the cut works well, especially the stretch panels just below the shoulders. There are numerous pockets, including a back pocket big enough to take a lining, and places to hook things on if that’s how you like to roll.
PRICE: RRP $959.51
Availability: Harley-Davidson dealers
SIZES: S-3XL
ARR was supplied a jacket at the launch of
the Pan America.
