As a successor to the popular original Blaze motorcycle jacket, the Blaze 2 provides an affordable and feature-rich option for riders seeking protection without compromising comfort.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the key features of the Blaze 2 jacket, examine what owners are saying about it, highlight the pros and cons, and see how it stacks up to other BILT jackets.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best motorcycle jacket for summer? Let’s find out!
Bilt Blaze 2 Jacket Review
Key Takeaways
- Excellent ventilation and breathability
- Lightweight and comfortable fit
- Ample safety features for the price
First Impressions of the Bilt Blaze 2 Jacket
I am really impressed with the comfort and airflow. The wind bounces right off me. I had no problem riding in the South Florida heat, as long as you’re moving.”
“This is not my first riding jacket (1) so I don’t know if it runs small or if they are supposed to fit a little tighter, but it was a little tight. Although I did add some armor in the back.”
Having tested this jacket in Florida where it’s always hot this jacket has been great! I also use it for city commuting and I’ve been comfortable with it.”
A Lightweight and Breathable Design
When temperatures start to climb, the last thing you want is a heavy, bulky jacket trapping heat against your body. The Blaze 2 tackles this problem head-on with its construction:
- The chassis combines 600D polyester textile panels with extensive ultra-flow mesh inserts. This provides abrasion protection while allowing maximum airflow.
- Stretch panels interspersed throughout grant flexibility and prevent binding.
- Neoprene collar and cuffs seal out wind while remaining soft against the skin.
Ventilation spans the entire torso region along with underarm and rear exhaust vents. Riders consistently praise the Blaze 2’s ability to flow air in warm conditions. The textile also resists water fairly well for unexpected showers.
Rider Protection You Can Count On
Despite its lightweight feel, the Blaze 2 doesn’t sacrifice safety with its protective features:
- CE-rated armor in the elbows and shoulders exceeds minimum standards.
- A pocket accommodates optional CE-level back armor for full upper-body protection.
- Reflective detailing boosts nighttime visibility.
- Abrasion panels constructed from 600D textiles reinforce the high-impact zones.
The armor remains comfortable and unobtrusive for all-day wearability. Overall, the Blaze 2 provides reassuring safety for such an affordable summer jacket.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent ventilation and breathability
- Lightweight and comfortable fit
- Ample safety features for the price
- Reflective accents boost visibility
- Water-resistant construction
Cons
- Not suitable for cold weather use
- Sizing runs small
- Limited color/style options
- Elbow and shoulder pads may feel bulky
As with any gear, the Blaze 2 has both advantages and potential drawbacks depending on your needs:
On the whole, the jacket delivers fantastic value as a highly vented protective layer for hot rides. Just don’t expect it to perform like a winter jacket.
How Does It Compare to Other BILT Jackets?
BILT offers several other mesh and textile jackets that may better suit certain needs:
- The Techno 2 has a similar mesh/textile design but more style options and a taller back. It costs more at around $150.
- The Amber jacket features a full leather construction with premium armor for maximum protection. Expect to pay over $250.
- The Tracker is a waterproof textile touring jacket with a removable thermal liner. It retails for approximately $180.
- The standard Blaze model has identical styling but lacks the updated chassis and stretch panels. It’s $20 less than the Blaze 2.
The Blaze 2 hits a nice sweet spot between protection, ventilation, and affordability. Riders wanting more weather protection or a stylish leather option may prefer one of the alternatives above.
Look Out for Potential Sizing Issues
One word of caution – some riders caution that the Blaze 2 runs smaller than expected. If your measurements put you between sizes, consider ordering up a size.
As examples:
- A rider who normally wears a size large found the medium too tight in the chest and arms. The large fit better in those areas.
- Another owner who takes XL in most jackets found the 3XL Blaze 2 to fit like his usual 2XL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Blaze 2 come with a waterproof liner?
A: No, it does not include a waterproof liner. The jacket is water-resistant but not fully waterproof. For heavy rain, you would need to wear a separate waterproof layer.
Q: How does the sizing compare to other brands like Tourmaster or Joe Rocket?
A: Some riders have found the sizing to be smaller and recommend ordering a size up. It’s always best to carefully measure against the size chart and read recent reviews about fit.
Q: Is the Blaze 2 jacket good for street or track use?
A: With its combination of airflow, armor and abrasion resistance, the Blaze 2 works well for either street riding or occasional track days. Some serious track riders may opt for a more technical jacket.
Q: Does it have a zipper to attach riding pants?
A: Yes, it includes a short connecting zipper to attach to BILT riding pants for a complete suit. This helps prevent wind and