The Atem V4 is the - ah yes - fourth version of this pretty pure leather racing jacket. Alpinestars at its best, in other words: making a thoroughbred top level track jacket, that's what the Italians do best.
The Atem V4 stands on the shoulders of a whole family tree of namesakes and is category 2, AA, fully CE certified. This puts us one step below professional racing clothing.
Premium cowhide forms the basis of this short, highly pre-shaped motorcycle jacket. With a minimum thickness of 1.3 mm, this provides a sturdy 'chassis' and a lot of wear-resistant protection. Of course leather has to set a little, but thanks to the large stretch panels and accordion stripes you are still assured of the necessary freedom of movement. Those panels are located where you expect them the most (elbows, shoulders) and get extra reinforcement on the chest and the inside of the sleeves, for just that little extra comfort. The leather is extensively perforated, which - combined with the mesh lining - results in good ventilation.
On the sleeve ends you'll find two zippers. The puller of the central YKK-zipper is hidden behind a strip of Velcro and at the waist you can tighten or loosen everything. The two zippered pockets and waterproof inner pocket show that this jacket can also be used outside the track, although it's still clearly a racing jacket, not a touring one.
The latter is undeniable: the aerodynamic hump on the back gives it away. The performance at high speed obviously benefits from it. And if the hump doesn't convince you, the integrated protection material will: Nucleon Flex Plus protectors on shoulders and elbows are standard, while a Nucleon Plasma back protector (level 2-certified) or Nucleon KR-CELLi back protector (level 1-certified ) or Nucleon KR-R CELL back protector (level 2-certified, snap-on system) can be easily fitted as an option. The sliders on the shoulders and the extra cup on the outside of the elbows leave no doubt. This is a racing jacket.
One that is finished in great detail. The collar, the sleeve ends, the 3D-mesh lining ... it all feels very comfortable and of high quality. The necessary logos are printed directly on the materials used.
The connection zipper allows all combinations, as long as you stay more or less within the Alpinestars range. That's as it should be, with a half race suit of this caliber.
There is maintenance clothing and then there is clothing maintenance. Good, solid motorcycle clothing is an investment in comfort and personal safety. So invest in its maintenance after your purchase and enjoy your gear for longer.
We put the best tips & tricks on this maintenance page.