GEAR REVIEW: LEATT GPX 4.5 GEAR SET
Leatt has made a huge push for 2020 and we couldn’t be happier about it. The whole range received an overhaul, during what we imagine would have been a busy few years of development. The 4.5 range is not the premium option from Leatt, but it still packs a hell of a punch.
Shaking down the new Leatt 4.5 gear during a recent Michelin Tyre launch.
JERSEY - GPX 4.5 X-FLOW
Price: $64.90
Offering a classic fit and made of MoistureCool 3D stretch mesh material with air channels, this jersey is super comfortable, and has new soft stretch cuffs and added ventilation thanks to its X-Flow mesh side panels. The tailored fit is designed to be worn with or without body armor and the collar can stretch to be compatible with or without a Leatt neck brace. Offers a more relaxed fit compared to our stretch fit 5.5 jerseys.
Features
Classic fit
Lightweight MoistureCool X-Flow mesh
Overlock stitched seams for comfort
Collar design for use with or without a neck brace
Tailored fit for riding with or without body armor
Silicone pant grip
What We Think
The X-Flow is just that. A lightweight jersey that really lets the air flow through to cool you down. Great for a hot warm day doing those 30-minute motos, or for when grovelling in the bush. However, with the fabric like it is, it will be prone to hooking up on things like branches and foliage in the bush so be aware. And when the winter comes, keep this jersey in your gear bag cause she’s gonna get chilly.
The fitment is super comfortable - it doesn’t feel loose or flappy in any areas when wearing it which I really like. The colar doesn’t irritate the neck and the mesh material gives a little bit too - although not like a ‘regular’ jersey fabric would, so don’t go too tight with the sizing. Especially if you wear your armor underneath. I never had any issues with the jersey pulling out of the pants while riding and the minimal cuffs are good for keeping the roost out too.
The colouring and design are simple but modern., which is my preference when it comes to ‘the look. I think the GPX 4.5 X-Flow hits the mark there. A great light, summertime jersey that is comfortable and about as breathable as you can get.
PANTS GPX 4.5
Price: $199.00
These cannot be considered entry-level pants, our lightweight and breathable constructed GPX 4.5 pants are unbeaten in their class. A pre-curved performance fit made up from Ripstop and X-Flow mesh panels, along with a heavy-duty seat area and reinforced leather knees on both sides, means these pants are ready for track or trails – whichever you choose. A premium product at a great price.
Features
Pre-curved performance fit
Light and breathable construction
Ripstop stretch and X-Flow mesh panels
Rear yoke
Heavy-duty seat and reinforced knees
Leather inner legs for bike grip
Multi-layer knee reinforcement
Multi-row reinforced stitching
Waist with micro adjuster and 270 ̊ heavy duty silicone grip
Anti-odor MoistureCool mesh lining
What We Think
These GPX 4.5 pants are light as hell - which I initially liked, but worried about their durability. Matching to the 4.5 X-Flow jersey, the pants are also very breathable, utilising the same X-Flow mesh in some of the paneling. They are a snug fit for sure, however we had no issues stretching them over knee braces - but again it’s snug. The pants are pre-curved, which helps with fitment, with reinforcing on the inner legs, knees and seat area.
The stitching is reinforced, which is a great idea when using such lightweight materials, and they almost feel at one with the body when they are one. The colorway is black, which means you can wear these pants with any of the X-Flow colours (and probably any other model too) and you will look good. A simple swap out of your jersey sees totally new look.
Riding in the gear was easy, with no issues feeling restricted or getting caught on plastics. Again, like the jersey, they are definitely for the warmer riding months, and we suspect doing hard enduro in this gear might result in some pretty decent damage. But that is what the 5.5 Enduro gear sets are for.
The slim styling, comfortable fit and stretch from the GPX 4.5 pants are a great mid-level option and will keep you running cool on the track.
GLOVE GPX 1.5 GRIPR
Price: $46.90
A light and minimalistic glove that offers good airflow and a great fit. The all-new MicronGrip palm is setting a new standard for gloves in this price range with superior feel. If you are looking for impact protection, check out the Leatt GPX 3.5 or 4.5 gloves.
Features
Ultra-light construction
MicronGrip palm
Super slim with superior handlebar feel
Excellent dry and wet grip
Very durable with touch screen function
Silicone grip print
Pre-curved, snug fit and seamless palm
Vented, Lite upper-hand material
Multi-row, technical thread stitching
What We Think
Leatt have for sure gone with lightweight as the theme for this gear set, with the GPX 1.5 GRIPR gloves hardly feel like they are there. The basic single layer glove looks simple, but it has a host of features to step it up. The MicronGrop palm is a pretty cool material, as it is very thin, but also offers above-average padding for your hands. On the reverse side, the vented material ensures your hands don’t get too hot with all the gripping of the bars.
Again, like the pants, the gloves are a super-slim fit and really feel great on the whole hand. The pre-curved fingers are a nice touch, but what I really like is that the fingers are touch screen so you can work your magic with the camera without having to take the gloves off. It won’t fingerprint scan sorry. That tech isn’t here yet.
You probably get the idea that this gear isn’t designed for NZ winter riding. Well, it’s the same with the 1.5 gloves too. Definitely summer lovers, though they do seem to grip well in the rain too. So if you are tough then no worries.
Overall
The Leatt 4.5 gear, combined with the 1.5 glove is a well priced, mid-level gear set that is focused more on breathability than durability. That’s not to take away the fact that Leatt has used double stitching and construction akin to preventing wear and tear. On the moto track, I believe you would experience longevity in this gear for sure. But if you were an avid bush rider, the function of mesh fabrics breathability could spell disaster after grazing a tree and bashing through some bush. But you’ll look bloody good doing it!
Check out other colorways and the rest of the Leatt 2020 line up of riding apparel by heading to www.bits4bikes.co.nz or clicking HERE.
Distributed by Whites Power Sports