Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 Plasma preview spec, features
The latest Alpinestars airbag vest combines ultra-slim design with AI crash detection. Riders can choose street, track, or off-road modes while staying protected in style and comfort.
Alpinestars has unveiled the Tech-Air 5 Plasma, which is now available in Europe and internationally, having first appeared in the US earlier this year.
The Tech-Air 5 Plasma joins Alpinestars’ existing lineup of airbag systems, which cover street riding, commuting, track, off-road, and motocross. It is designed for both riders and passengers, aiming to offer versatile protection without compromising comfort or mobility.
Weighing just 1.53kg, the Tech-Air 5 Plasma is more than 25 per cent lighter than its predecessor, making it the lightest airbag system from Alpinestars so far. Its minimalist design allows it to fit discreetly under most jackets while still leaving the rider free to move comfortably.
The system allows riders to replace the gas inflator themselves up to six times after deployment, provided the airbag itself hasn’t been damaged. In countries where this is permitted, it means continued protection without needing a full-service replacement after every incident.
Tech-Air 5 Plasma uses an advanced algorithm with three selectable riding modes: off-road, street, and race/track. Riders can switch between modes easily, even with gloves on, using a small LED display button on the vest. That’s a small but important point, as it means you don’t have to faff around changing the settings on your smartphone while wearing gloves.
Bluetooth connectivity is still a feature, though, which links the system to a smartphone app allowing riders to monitor battery life and system status, record rides, update software, and consult the user manual.
To arm the system, the user simply has to zip it up, which will close a magnetic activation flap, and the system is ready to go. LED indicators and haptic feedback show that the airbag is armed and what mode it is in - be it road, track or off-road. A USB-C port on the display makes recharging the 30-hour battery straightforward, and Alpinestars claiming that an hour on change can provide up to eight hours of protection.
The ultra-slim vest houses an integrated back protector made from flexible, breathable material. The system’s six sensors use AI to detect crashes and deploy the airbag when needed. The airbag can be removed quickly for vest cleaning, and key components such as the gas inflator can be serviced easily.
Tech-Air 5 Plasma is CE-certified under European regulations and meets UK safety standards. The passive back protector is certified to EN1621-2 Level 1, while the inflatable airbag meets EN 1621-4 Level 1. The vest itself is certified as a Class C undergarment under EN 17092-6.
Review to follow
I’ve just taken collection of the Tech-Air 5 Plasma, so I’ll be putting it through its paces - hopefully not literally - in the coming months. We got loads of launches planned, on road, track and trail - stay tuned for the full review.
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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!
