According to a report by Robbie Bacon at RideApart, road racing legend Ian Hutchinson has debuted with his new team, RST, wearing the latest V4.2 D3O leather suit. Hutchinson, a 16-time Isle of Man TT winner and the only rider to win five solo TT races in a single week, serves as a high-profile test bed for the gear's performance and safety capabilities.
The V4.2 D3O suit is notable for its inclusion of comprehensive Level 2 armor, covering the knees, elbows, shoulders, hips, and—unusually for off-the-rack suits—the back. The garment is constructed from a blend of Kangaroo leather and drum-dyed cowhide, reinforced with DuPont Kevlar in critical impact zones, earning it an overall AAA safety rating.
Beyond standard armor, the suit integrates an In&motion airbag system. Users should note that this system requires either a monthly subscription of approximately $12 or a one-time activation fee ranging between $400 and $500. For riders looking for a professional-grade fit, the suits will be available for purchase at the RST truck during the Isle of Man TT. Attendees can be measured on-site and select custom colorways.
While European pricing is set at €1,526.95 (roughly $1,794.28), an official US price has not been confirmed. Hutchinson noted that the comfort and mobility of the suit allow him to maintain focus during the high-stakes environment of road racing, emphasizing that the protection provides confidence without being a distraction.
