THE mesh Piledriver jacket from Harley-Davidson is a well-appointed offering that not only provides a lighter option for riding during the warmer months, but also a solid option for cooler months, thanks to its removable quilted vest.
Made from a Carbolex shell, its colour scheme and design helps contribute to this jacket’s sporty appearance. It’s an affordable, solid choice, with the added advantage of the zip in and out lining.
In our case, the removable liner was straight out for our hotter test period. There are six zippable ventilation pockets as well to ensure the Harley-Davidson Piledriver jacket provided adequate ventilation.
Two in the arms, two in the torso and two at the back make riding in the heat and wearing a jacket for extra protection, much more tolerable. With the breeze blowing through the inside of the jacket, it creates a huge relief from the heat.
Combined with the lightweight textile material, the Piledriver jacket is a lot lighter for the rider, when compared to a traditional full leather offering.
There are four sealable external pockets, as well as two internal pockets, with one of those being completely sealable. To add to this rider storage, there is also another pocket in the removable jacket liner.
The sleeves can be zipped too, just like on Harley-Davidson’s leather jackets, to make tucking your gloves in that little bit easier. The main jacket zipper also mirrors that which you would find on the more expensive leather offerings.
Also, incorporated into the Piledriver jacket are body armour pockets, which are designed to hold lightweight body armour units that can be purchased separately. It’s disappointing these don’t come standard, even if that meant the jacket was dearer to buy.
The Harley-Davidson Piledriver jacket utilizes 3M Scotchlite reflective material to ensure extra visibility to other motorists when travelling at night. The white segments on the jacket have also been Teflon treated to repel dirt.
Available in sizes from small to 5XL, the Harley-Davidson Piledriver jacket has broad market appeal, and should be a popular choice for Australian riders. Priced at $286.95, it’s definitely an affordable riding gear option.
As a rider who has leather and mesh riding jackets from Harley-Davidson, this author can confirm that the Piledriver will be getting more than its fair share of use over summer here in Australia.
For further information, visit your local authorised Harley-Davidson dealer, or visit their online store. We also recommend trying on any riding gear before purchasing to be sure of fit.
Our test product was provided by Harley-Davidson Australia. Exhaust Notes Australia has not been paid to review this product. Pictures courtesy of Jessica Jenkin Photography.
Pros – lightweight; good ventilation; price point.
Cons – body armour is optional and does not come standard.
