hor racing gear is engineered to meet the demands of professional riders. This is true for the gear we see on some of the fastest racers in the sport, but sometimes it’s the safety gear we don’t see that is the most important. Thor MX engineers their safety products that you don’t see to meet the demands of pro riders as well.
     The newest addition to the Thor “protection collection” is the Quadrant Deflector SE. Offering full protection and lightweight/breathable construction, the Quadrant Deflector SE is the best of both worlds. Additional padding on the forearms and biceps protects from roost while the Ride-Lite moisture wicking chassis and open armpits promote ventilation and airflow. Molded bio-foam chest and tapered sleeves provide protection that won’t reposition while riding. Sizes are offered in: S/M–L/XL with a suggested retail price of $59.95.
     Roost hurts, and that’s why top professionals wear roost guards when they race. Thor is proud to introduce their next generation in roost protection with the Sentinel. The Sentinel is the most versatile, best fitting, lightest roost protector Thor has ever created.      Weighing in at only 1.4 lbs., the Sentinel incorporates numerous vents and air channels for maximum ventilation. Designed for riders who are looking for coverage without the bulk and excess weight, the Sentinel is pure performance. The exclusive Uni-Shoulder design helps provide structural rigidity whether the Sentinel is used as a full version, or in its front-only style. Protection doesn’t do you any good if it’s not securely in place, so Thor developed their first ratchet-style closure system for a secure comfortable fit. Versatility was also a crucial element, so Thor included both the back strap and number-plate with every Sentinel. Now you’re ready to go racing right out of the box. Additional features include molded bio-foam interior, an injection molded exterior shell, slim profile to fit under jersey, ratchet buckle closure system, extensive venting for maximum airflow, TPR chest logo and an integrated sternum plate.
     The trick thing about the Sentinel is its three-way Modular Design, which allows the rider 3 choices: 1. Full back plate attached, 2. With full back plate attached and number plate, or 3. With back-strap for front-only configuration. The Sentinel has a MSRP of $89.95 and fits most riders in the 120-200 pound range. Colors are Black/White, Black, Blue/White, and Red/Grey to match a variety of Thor riding gear.
     Another finely engineered product from Thor is the Force Kneeguard, which has been completely redesigned to incorporate a floating knee cup that’s encapsulated in durable Aramid material. The new Force Kneeguard offers improved comfort and performance. Designed for riders who require more coverage than conventional knee guards, but less support than expensive knee braces, the Force is in a class by itself.
     Thor’s innovative dual-pivot system mimics the action of the knee without the bulky mechanics that can get hung up on your bike. So you’ll feel more like you’re wearing standard knee guards, and less like a human robot. The Force Knee Guards are also anatomically correct, so there’s a specific left and right side, which match the contour of your legs for improved comfort and reduced chafing. Made from an Airprene chassis for support and secure fit with extended thigh protection and impact resistant polyethylene.      The knee cup is encapsulated in durable Aramid fiber for maximum coverage. The S/M size fits most riders up to 5’7” and the L/XL size fits most riders taller than 5’7”.      Riders can choose from the standard black for $84.95 or pay a little extra for the cool plaid design at $94.95.
     Underneath all that gear and safety equipment, a rider wants to feel comfortable when he races. That’s where the Thor Comp Shorts really pay off. The completely redesigned Thor Comp Shorts are form-fitting shorts constructed of a lycra/nylon blend for a no-bind fit. The Comp Shorts eliminates bunching and provides support during riding and the new Tricot wrapped foam crotch pad greatly reduces “monkey butt.” Plus, a wide elastic waistband keeps roost and sand out. It’s offered by Thor in black in sizes small through XXL for a suggested retail of $29.95.
     So when your customers come in and want to buy a set of new Thor riding gear, offer them the whole package; roost protection, knee guards and Comp Shorts. They’ll ride a lot happier and safer. It’s all available through your Parts Unlimited rep.