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Recently, in the space of days, BMW, KTM and Dainese have announced new riding kit that focusses on the only part of the rider anatomy that rarely gets a protective sheath – the neck. In each case, the systems target off-road riders, and all are designed to allow full neck motion while relieving the loads (Dainese) or preventing hyperextension (unnatural motion, which usually leads to torn muscles, broken bones etc.)
I believe that the KTM riders at the 2007 Dakar already used the Dr Chris Leatt developed braces in competition, so obviously they must work. Or else professional riders would ride right by them.
The BMW Neck Brace system is made of carbon, kevlar and glass fibre reinforced plastic. Obviously that would probably be uncomfortable to wear, so its covered in a layer of impact-absorbing foam that also happens to be more touch-able. BMW says the rider will place the NBS around his neck like a collar and simply snap the two side-mounted rapid action catches into place. The NBS is designed to sit on the upper body and does not actually connect the helmet to the rider's body. This allows full motion but the size and shape of the NBS will not allow the head to perform any unnatural, potentially disastrous contortions. BMW also says the any helmet impacts that may act on the spine will also be mitigated to some extent.
Chris Pfeiffer, the stunt god, competed at the 2006 Erzberg Rodeo wearing one, and he finished in the top 10, so while it may not boost your performance, it certainly does not hinder it. And I'm told that the neck brace is also beginning to make its appearance in road racing, with the South African Superbike Series already using them.
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