Alpinestars Bionic Rib Protector

The Alpinestars Bionic is a karting rib protector for 4 cycle racing, including club and regional Briggs LO206, when you want a shell under the suit and the series does not require an FIA 8870 vest. The product FAQ states it plainly: this protector is not FIA 8870 certified.

The shell is a high-density, impact-resistant PE hardshell with a fiberglass core in the protectors, and internal bio-foam. Padding is dual composition: a 3 mm high-density poly-foam layer laminated with 4 mm EVA. The outer is 500 denier Cordura for abrasion. The inner is soft poly-lycra, so the piece can sit under clothing or over it. A perforated rear and the ventilated build are the airflow. None of that adds an FIA stamp.

Fit is adjustable. A central back panel uses Velcro. The front strap closes with a D-ring and has an elastic section. Shoulder straps are breathable 3D mesh with an elastic gusset. The shape is contoured to sit under a kart suit, and the FAQ says it is available in adult and youth sizes. Check the size chart against chest measurement. A vest that digs into the ribs or rides up is the wrong size for that driver, and a loose seat lets you move no matter which shell you bought. Try the fit. Do not assume one brand's shape matches your rib cage.

Use this Bionic when you want that ventilated bio-foam shell and elastic straps for club karting. The Alpinestars AK-1 Kart Body Protector is the other rib protector from this brand, and it is the one homologated to FIA 8870-2018, with a thermoformed shell and energy-absorbing foam. Pick the AK-1 when the class or the organizer requires the FIA rib standard. Pick the Bionic when the FAQ's non-certified club protector is the one that matches the rulebook you are running.

A kart rib vest only helps if it stays where the size chart put it. Swift Karting stocks the Bionic for LO206 club racing.

Sizing