Dainese Smart GO motorcycle airbag vest launched
The Dainese Smart GO motorcycle airbag vest weighs 780g and offers Level 2 chest and back protection, with smartphone power and optional backpack integration.
Dainese’s new electronic airbag weighs 780g, offers Level 2 chest and back protection and can be powered by a compatible smartphone, removing the need for a conventional charging routine.
Priced at £329 in the UK, Dainese is hoping that Smart GO will be both simpler to use and more affordable than a traditional airbag system, thanks to some innovative first-in-class features.
The new system tips the scales at just 780g, including its gas generator, making it one of the lightest products of this kind on the market by some margin. It’s designed to be worn over or under motorcycle clothing, as well as casual jackets. It features adjustable straps allowing a single size to accommodate different body shapes, while its packable construction means it can be stowed in a backpack, motorcycle luggage or under a scooter seat when not in use.
The vest provides Level 2 protection for both the chest and back under the EN 1621-4 standard, with Dainese claiming it can be used without an additional rigid back protector. The system is fully electronic, requiring no physical connection to the motorcycle, and uses Dainese’s D-air algorithm to detect dangerous riding dynamics and trigger inflation in milliseconds.
Dainese says the algorithm has been developed for road riding and light off-road use, which effectively rules out track use. An internal diaphragm structure is designed to distribute inflation evenly across the protected area, while the gas generator can be replaced by the user up to three times.
One of the Smart GO’s more unusual features is its power supply. Rather than requiring riders to charge the airbag itself, it can draw power from a compatible USB-C smartphone that supports USB On-The-Go (OTG), or use an optional dedicated power bank.
Dainese claims the latter provides up to 72 hours of riding autonomy. The system is controlled through the D-air app via Bluetooth.
The Smart GO can also be paired with a dedicated 15-litre water-resistant backpack, which attaches to the vest using a magnetic fastening system.
The backpack includes an organiser, a laptop compartment and an external pocket, and can be detached in seconds for use away from the bike.
At £329, the Smart GO undercuts many established electronic airbag systems, although the optional accessories add to the overall cost. The dedicated power bank costs £35, a replacement gas generator is £59, and the backpack is priced at £119.
Opt for the full package, and you are knocking on the door of £550 all-in. Still cheaper than most of the competition, but a slightly more expensive option than just the vest on its own.
The headline price puts Dainese’s latest airbag into a more accessible bracket, while its low weight and smartphone-powered operation address two practical considerations for everyday use. How well the system works in real-world riding, particularly in terms of fit, comfort and the convenience of its power arrangements, remains to be tested and will be happening in the coming weeks – stay tuned!
You can find out more information on the official website.
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Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
