When Yamaha invited me to test its new FZ6R last winter, naturally I began shopping for the right coordinates to match the sizzling graphics on the sporty bodywork. The slimming style and feminine tribal graphics adorning SHIFT’s Tempest SS jacket looked like the perfect fit.

When the nylon jacket arrived, I was impressed with the quality and style, but worried about its ability to keep me warm enough in the cool northern California climate I’d be riding in. The removable, polyester, quilted vest liner is pretty thin and doesn’t cover the arms, so I decided to let out the waist adjustments, and add a few extra layers of clothing for the 140-mile trek.

This jacket is built with safety in mind. It features removable, CE-approved armor in the shoulders and elbows, and an integrated pocket for a back protector. There’s an internal zipper on the rear bottom for connecting to a pair of pants, but no matching pants are available at this time. 3M reflective material adorns the entire length of the sleeves and back, and appears on the back of the collar as well.

The size L that I ordered fit pretty snuggly once I zipped in all my extra layers, but kept me warm, dry, and protected. The exterior zippered pockets and two upper torso vents are completely waterproof, as is the jacket shell. Two interior zippered pockets allow for lots of storage in front, under the chest. The Tempest’s collar is extra soft on the interior, uses a small flat magnet instead of a hard-to-use snap or Velcro, and provides just the right amount of coverage to keep air from finding its way down the neck. Generously sized Velcro sleeves cinch at the cuffs for a good fit at the wrists.

At the launch, I scored extra points for being the best dressed. More importantly, I can wear the Tempest confidently, knowing that not only do I look good, but I’m also well protected. RB

Three snap adjustments and zippered pleats make the waist adjustable.

Hard Data

SHIFT
Women’s Tempest SS Waterproof Jacket
$179.95
888/826-5143
www.ShiftRacing.com