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Submitted by
Q
a Weekend Warrior
from Dallas, TX USA
Date Reviewed: August 14, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | beyondbikes.com | | Strengths: | Lightweight, durable, extremely comfortable, heavy-duty materials | | Weaknesses: | cant find any so far | | Similar Products Used: | My knees :) | | Bike Setup: | Raleigh Ram 1.0, Candy-C's, | | Bottom Line: | STOP COMPLAINING ABOUT THE HEAT!! I live in Dallas, TX where its been 95-100+ degrees everday this summer (high 80's since January), and I found these to be perfectly comfortable no matter what trail I've been on. All I can say is that the first ride out these things saved my ass; I would've lost the whole side of my right leg to some rocky terrain otherwise. My right arm on the other hand wasnt so lucky; I am now going to purchase the arm/elbow guards from Roach, as I have no skin left on the lower half, and bits of skin missing from underneath my bicep (riding with a hangover = bad falls). Buy yourself a pair; you'll be glad you did!! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik Solymar
a Downhiller
from Ottawa
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | kanata lakes | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | cambria | | Strengths: | holds up well, good ventillation, doesnt itch, doesn't move around, comfortable hours later, good protection | | Weaknesses: | looks (i like the look of the rally pads better), hard to clean when really muddy, too many straps but thats not a huge problem | | Similar Products Used: | 661 shin pads | | Bike Setup: | 04 Specialized Hardrock Pro. Stock except derailler hanger, front tire, seat, dh tubes | | Bottom Line: | These things vent really well and i recomend them to any trail hardcore rider and black diamond rider. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
token
a Downhiller
from Korea
Date Reviewed: May 10, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$46.00 | | Purchased At: | airbomb.com | | Strengths: | Amazingly comfortable, don't move around on my legs and provide full leg protection from right above my shoe to above my knees. | | Weaknesses: | A little hot but so comfortable that you don't need to take these off to hike up. | | Similar Products Used: | Dainese Kneeguards, sixsixone 4x4 | | Bike Setup: | big hit DH, Monster T, hayes hfx-9, fox vanilla, platforms, holzfeller two ring setup. | | Bottom Line: | They are the best pads I've bought to date. The Dainese although confortable and easy to take on and off slipped and slided all over the place whether pedalling or not and also during crashes. The initial impact protection was there but after than the pads would just rotate out of the way of the next one.
661 offered better pad stability but some of the fasteners ripped of on my first ever run and they are so uncomfortable (even thought I only used them for shuttling).
Basically, Roach have got this type of pad nailed. The lining inside is super soft and ergonomically padded, the thing doesn't slip at all and you'll find yourself getting in the shower at the end of the day totally having forgotten you are wearing them.
Maybe a little more expensive that other pads but very much worth it.
These are probably more suited to freeriders rather than DH racers, but I'm gonna use mine for both. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Dorchester, MA, USA
Date Reviewed: November 1, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Comfortable and stable. No interference riding. Once I'm on the trail, I forget that I have them on. Full coverage without excess weight. | | Weaknesses: | The full wrap around strap (under the knee) had to be cut off. It kept coming undone and hanging dangerously close to my drivetrain. This did not have a noticeable affect on the pads' stability on my legs. | | Similar Products Used: | my legs | | Bike Setup: | I built it. | | Bottom Line: | I bought these based on the reviews. Good choice! I will not be looking for another leg pad for quite awhile. These have saved my knees and shins from some seriously jagged landings. I look at the places I've landed and shiver at the thought of not having THESE pads on. No more scars! They do trap some heat BUT I'd rather endure some sweaty heat on my bike for a few hours than in a cast for 3+ months! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Ottawa
Date Reviewed: October 27, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Foreplay | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$85.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Excellent fit, stays in place, good protection from the handlebar stem over the interior of the knee near the MCL, lightweight, reasonably breathable for armour, smart strapping placement, good articulation at knee joint, looks like part of a stormtrooper's outfit | | Weaknesses: | Straps can occasionally chafe a bit behind the knees (the price you pay to keep the pads in place while moving), looks like part of a stormtrooper's outfit, can sometimes bind on exposed derailleur cables and hydraulic lines, and expensive at my LBS | | Similar Products Used: | Band-aids | | Bike Setup: | Medium '03 Santa Cruz Heckler with XT hydraulic brakes and platform pedals | | Bottom Line: | This review is for the Rally FreeRide Leg armour . . . and they are 'da bomb!!! They have a grey perforated plastic shell for ventilation and impact dissipation. Please don't mix this up with Roach's Indy armour.
*** it's probably a good time for the moderator to create a new product review for the new Rally line of pads - hint hint ***
These pads are stellar in the technical stuff. They're sized well and provide full coverage over and around the knee as well as down by the ankle from the pedal. I've gouged my shins with my Wellgo B-37 studded pedals more times than I'd care to admit and it absolutely sucks! These pads have saved my bacon far more often than I can mention with my recent explorations into wheelie drops and aggressive rocky trail riding / DH. They also stay put all the time. They're a lot cooler riding aggressive XC with lots of climbing than Roach's older solid cloth full-wrap around Indys. The Indys were good fitting pads as well but damn they're hot for urban assault and even worse for trail riding.
My only complaint about these Rally pads is probably a rare situation. I bought a new Santa Cruz Heckler and the front derailleur cabling + hydraulic brake line are routed on the side of the top tube. I don't know why Santa Cruz didn't route it on the top like everybody else's wire cables. The inside edge of plastic shell and foam lining interface creates a catch edge that grabs the cable when my leg swings inward during abrupt weight transfers on uneven terrain. It's incredibly frustrating during aggressive climbing because the front derailleur suddenly binds my chain just when I need the most torque! I would expect this to become more and more frequent as side attachment points for hydraulic lines become more popular so maybe check for compatibility with your ride style and bike before dropping coin on this set of pads.
Please bear in mind that my Heckler trail / freeride bike is much larger on me than my Kona Cinder Cone XC trail bike so my leg is hitting my top tube much more often than before. I never had this $hitty problem on my Kona ever.
I give the Roach Rally FreeRide leg pads 4 flamin' chilis overall because of my unique gripe (hopefully nobody else will have this issue) and 4 for value because they were double to triple the cost of other albeit lesser pads. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lyle
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton Alberta Canada
Date Reviewed: October 20, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Local Bike Shoppe | | Strengths: | This armour is the best! It takes spills amazingly. It doesn't feel as bulky as some other armour I've tried (all cheap NON CANADIAN) And looks sick. | | Weaknesses: | May be a bit hot in the summer but just fine in the fall winter and spring. Makes me do all this ridiculus stuff. | | Similar Products Used: | six six one
lizard skins | | Bike Setup: | 2003 trek 4900 | | Bottom Line: | This Armour rocks.
If you want some assurance for doing some crazy things this is the stuff to get. ROACH IS THE BOMB(proof) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bird
a Weekend Warrior
from Las Pinas, Philippines
Date Reviewed: October 14, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | peak 2 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$58.00 | | Purchased At: | Trixx Bike Shop (LBS) | | Strengths: | -stays in place
-very good protection | | Weaknesses: | -hot
-inside lining being shredded by velcro | | Similar Products Used: | fox, shift | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Bullit, Super T, avid mechanicals 8-inch, Mavic 121 rims | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up review after 1 year of use.
I always use it for DH, and for XC, I put it in my bag and put in on even on short DH.
Saved a me from a lot of skinning.
I'm quite sloppy with the bike, but this and the roach elbow always saves the day for me.
It's worth every $$$ and more for what I paid for it.
It's still the same as the day I purchased it. I just take care not to let the velcro touch the inner lining.
It's a good thing my brother is going to start biking
I have an excuse to buy a new set of roach elbow and knee armors.
I highly recommend.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe Becker
a Downhiller
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Snow Summit's dowhills baby | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Beyond Bikes.com | | Strengths: | These are great! Awesome protection that stays put and takes the abuse well. I got the new Indy design, which has the mesh back, so it's cooler, too. The pads have numerous straps which really keep them in place-- I never have to waste time re-adjusting. The inside front panels have foam channels which cushion impacts well, and actually gives a nice bit of airflow inside. All this at a good price, too!
| | Weaknesses: | If anything, I'd have to say they can rub you the wrong way after extend use. I got a couple of raw spots, but I was riding for 8+ hours, and I think any kind of pad would have caused at least as much irritation over such a long period of time. | | Similar Products Used: | Knuckle Bone pads-- sucked! | | Bike Setup: | Specialized Big Hit Expert with several assorted upgrades | | Bottom Line: | I fell numerous time on my first day wearing these at Snow Summit doing the downhill runs and freeriding some of the uncharted, very rugged single track. These pads saved my knees from certain injury on several occasions. In particular, I fell knee-first into a splitering tree stump which would have caused massive penetrating trauma--I came away without a scratch thanks to these pads, and they didn't even tear! Best of all, these pads were a great deal at just about $50, and they should last a long, long time. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a Downhiller
from Vancity
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$40.00 | | Strengths: | good protection for shins
paid 100CAN for arm and leg armour set | | Weaknesses: | poor knee protection...poor knee protection...poor knee protection... | | Bike Setup: | .243, Junior T2, Avid mechs | | Bottom Line: | these do the job on the shins and knees for little crashes, but I wear them all the time and they do not protect my knees at all. Very annoing - I'm trying Hoots knee and shi
n armour next. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
stunt
a Weekend Warrior
from rochester
Date Reviewed: July 3, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | P-kill | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$53.00 | | Strengths: | Great protection!!! Feels and looks like they could stop bullets! | | Weaknesses: | Hot, and they scratch the area just above my knees no matter how I adjust them | | Similar Products Used: | Dainese Freestyle | | Bike Setup: | Pimped out Gemini | | Bottom Line: | I use these pads primarily for downhilling. They have saved me quite a few times. The only thing that keeps me from wearing them all the time is the way the rub sores above my knees when pedaling. I use the Dainese Freestyle for freeriding, but the Roach pads offer more protection. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wade Simmons
a Downhiller
from North Shore
Date Reviewed: June 16, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | UBC | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | brought to my house | | Strengths: | good padding and ventalation, don't crack, actually fit | | Weaknesses: | hot, 2003's insides make marks on your legs. | | Similar Products Used: | none these are the bombers | | Bike Setup: | wade simmons signature... | | Bottom Line: | These are best shin/knee combos ever had. I had 661's but the plastic inside cracks easily ya get these and im sponsored so hahahah and im planning to leave RMB | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ill
a Downhiller
from Colorado
Date Reviewed: June 8, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | 50 | | Strengths: | Fit, don't move around, good protection. Comfortable. | | Weaknesses: | I guess they are hot. | | Similar Products Used: | Bombshell, fox stuff. | | Bottom Line: | The guy below cracks me up "They wore through my riding tights!", thats rich. To each their own I guess. I like mine, they don't move around like some other stuff I've bought. Yeah, they are hot, but still super comfortable. I wear mine for hours at a time and don't even think about them. I really can't add anything other reviews haven't covered, just buy them, you won't regret it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
pamela funk
a Weekend Warrior
from san jo, ca
Date Reviewed: May 27, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | braille | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | don't remember | | Strengths: | full coverage, comfortable and durable | | Weaknesses: | can be hot
Straps were too long, and I had to shorten them | | Similar Products Used: | same product, smaller size | | Bike Setup: | 03 titus loco moto, fox float r, 02 marzocchi atom race, mavic rims, michellin wild grippers | | Bottom Line: | I'm updating my previous review. I originally had size small and they didn't fit. Roach agreed to exchange them for me. It took over a month to get them back, but I'm stoked! The new ones it much better. My guess would be anyone who tells you the are uncomfortable to pedal in got the wrong size.
I've been wearing them almost all the time now, and really like the extra protection. I wore them for five hours a couple of weeks ago, and they didn't get uncomfortable until the end. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zak Wilson
a Downhiller
from Boulder, CO, USA
Date Reviewed: May 5, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$59.00 | | Purchased At: | sports grage | | Strengths: | Not to hot
Comfortable
good coverage
Stay put | | Weaknesses: | A little hot, on hot days
Take a long time to get on
If you don't put them on right they are uncomfortable | | Similar Products Used: | My shin bones,, some Thor Sh!t | | Bike Setup: | hardtail with azonic, hayes, maxxis and a DJ III | | Bottom Line: | I love these things, they stay right were I put them. I have heard the the 2002 versoin in unbaribly hot, but the 2003's have a mesh backing that provides alot of ventilation (not quite enought but close). I spend weeks puting on the thor shin guards that floped all over and had very poor coverage, until I finialy went out and bought these, I am very happy with my purchess, these give me alot of confedence toi try new jumps and stuff like that, buy some! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sebastian
a Weekend Warrior
from Maine
Date Reviewed: April 30, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Our trail | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Ski rack sports | | Strengths: | -protective
-comfortable
-tons of straps
-full wrap around leg
-feels smooth on legs | | Weaknesses: | -they get hot...FAST
-little sharp corner above the knee that chafs skin, it can be fixed nice and easy tho | | Similar Products Used: | -first leg pad | | Bike Setup: | -02 kona stinky,boxxer,mag 30s, wierwolfs, extended plates
-03 kona scab
-02 redline monocog single speed | | Bottom Line: | - they rule, i wouldnt buy anything else. i would recommed them to anyone who rides in fall,spring,winter weather. the summer could be alittle uncomfortable in these pads but if you FR/DH these pads are worth it and the are cheap compared to other pads ive seen. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thom
a Cross Country Rider
from Kirkland, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: April 9, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Paradise Lake | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | mail order | | Strengths: | good all around protection.
they stay in place.
Good as long as you don't pedal. | | Weaknesses: | HOT! (but good for winter)
Overly stiff for XC.
Too wide-wearing through my bike frame.
heavy. | | Similar Products Used: | Fox ventilators
Nike soccer shin guards and various home made knee pads. | | Bike Setup: | Specialized FSR stumpjumper, Avid discs, rock ring, grip shifts, Smoke Dart tires, XT hubs and derailleurs | | Bottom Line: | Rough seams have eaten through my riding tights, and would eat through skin. Wide band in knee makes the knee area too wide which wore through my bike paint and was wearing THROUGH the aluminum. They do tend to cut off circulation on long rides. They really need to add some ventilation to those heavy duty leg warmers. They can really slow down your riding with their restriction of movement. But they do an excellent job of full coverage protection. Good if you are working your way downhill on a freestyle run. Bad if you are whipping through miles of technical cross country that includes uphills. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
pamela funk
a Weekend Warrior
from san jose, ca usa
Date Reviewed: March 6, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | don't remember | | Strengths: | full coverage, soft & comfortable inside (mostly, see weaknesses) | | Weaknesses: | There are some scratchy spots on the seems inside. You can burn them slightly with a lighter (move fairly quick back an forth over the area, let cool for a brief second, then push down with your fingers) to soften them up.
A little hot on warm days. | | Bike Setup: | Right now - Giant Youcon, Very soon (on the way) - titus loco moto, 02 marzocchi atom race 100, shimano xt, terry butterfly saddle | | Bottom Line: | Like a dope, I bought the wrong size. Yesterday, I e-mailed roach to verify sizing for my height. I got a response from Ingrid at Roach who verifyed that I should have the next size up. Although mine are lightly used, Ingrid agreed to exchange them for the next size up. I have to pay for the shipping, but I'm very pleased with the customer service.
If I have any problems getting the new ones, I'll update. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bryce Watkinson
a Weekend Warrior
from La Conner, Washington
Date Reviewed: January 31, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Down Hill | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Skagit Cycle Center | | Strengths: | Real confy and easy to move legs when pedaling. Can handle any kind of abusing. | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | fox pads | | Bike Setup: | Trek Bruiser 2 with marzocchi dj3, evil bashguard, azonic a-frame pedals, azonic big drop seat, and marzocchi fender | | Bottom Line: | Great pads for the price. Can withstand anything and are very confortable. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rafael Ertel
a Cross Country Rider
from Amherst
Date Reviewed: January 17, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Amethyst | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | AirBomb (came with elbows) | | Strengths: | The pads pretty much cover your whole leg from the shin to a couple of inches over the knee. Great protection. I haven't crashed in them yet, thank G-d, but I feel way more confident with them on. Another strength is it gives my wife peace of mind so I can go riding more often :) | | Weaknesses: | I feel a bit self conscious wearing these comprehensive pads being a Xcountry rider, I think I get some funny looks, but the trails around here are very rocky, long climbs and long descents, it really pays to wear these mojos. | | Bike Setup: | I was riding a Trek 6000 with 02 RS Duke race, but have just purchased a Giant AC Air, can't wait to hit the trails this Spring! | | Bottom Line: | The bottom line is forget what people think about you and your pads, these will keep you safe, that’s good for you, your family and mountain biking. I think it is clear that anyone who rides challenging terrain can benefit from these pads. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bird
a Weekend Warrior
from Las Pinas, Philippines
Date Reviewed: December 8, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$54.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | -doesn't move around
-very good in absorbing impact
-looks good. | | Bottom Line: | I read the reviews here first before I decided to buy this product. I must admit that everything good that I read about the product is true. No problems with it so far. I certainly gave me confidence to tackle the more technical tarrain which I previously walked before. I do light DH on weekends(the only riding I do) and I wear this in combination with an answer team bmx-2 pants and I have no problems with it(i wear the pads inside the pants). I little hot but tolerable | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert Starling
a Weekend Warrior
from Orlando, Florida
Date Reviewed: December 8, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Anyplace but work! | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Roach direct | | Strengths: | Excellent contruction, built to take some serious punishment and keep on going. Good fit and finish. | | Weaknesses: | A bit hot for here in Florida but my legs are so happy now! | | Similar Products Used: | None - lost a lot of skin | | Bike Setup: | '03 Trek 8500 stock | | Bottom Line: | I should have bought this things when I bought my first bike. Ingrid at Roach was very helpful. Shipped same day. BC to Orlando in five days. I bought the legs and arms as a set for $99 USD. Great value for a top quality product. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris S
a Downhiller
from Newtown CT
Date Reviewed: November 17, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Trumbull | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Cambria bikes | | Strengths: | They are Word! They don't slide and they take impacts very well. They were cheap and are still the best! | | Weaknesses: | There is a little seam near the top that is sharp but I put some tape over it and now it's prefect. I does cut the blood off from your knee down after like 6 hours of rideing. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | 00 Bullit, Z1 QR20, monkey bars, Chris kings nothreadset, kooka stem, bonz cranks, zuzu pedals, north shore bash ring,fox RC on back, gazz 3.0 on front and a high roller on back, hayes 6 in hydro brakes, double wides and hugi hubs. | | Bottom Line: | There great buy some now! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tanner
a
from Kamloops BC Canada
Date Reviewed: November 13, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Any | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$55.00 | | Strengths: | Great durablility and comfort | | Weaknesses: | NONE YET | | Similar Products Used: | NONE YET | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Kona Stinky, 2002 Marzocchi Z1 Wedge, Vanilla R, Maxxis 2.35 Mofo (Back) .243 Racing DH/SHORE 2.6 (Front) | | Bottom Line: | These pads are so comfortable and strong that I dont think that I will ever buy a different pad. They stay in place and are durable.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jordan
a Weekend Warrior
from Squamish B.C. Canada
Date Reviewed: October 13, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$5.00 | | Purchased At: | Garge Sale | | Strengths: | Stronge | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bottom Line: | Sweet. There are so strong, and for the riding I do, North SHore, The save my legs every time | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
brian
a Weekend Warrior
from castlegar
Date Reviewed: September 21, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything built by Dave S. | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$130.00 | | Purchased At: | sacred ride rossland | | Strengths: | What can I say that hasen't already been stated? Comfortable and durable full coverage that lasts forever.
Don't settle for "brand x" knock offs, buy Canadian! | | Weaknesses: | Tendancy to slide a couple of inches down my leg. This isn't a design flaw, but more a commentary on my freakishly skinny calves(see below)
| | Similar Products Used: | None. In store comparisons with other brands models made the decision to purchase easy. | | Bike Setup: | '01 Super 8 with industrial strength build kit. | | Bottom Line: | On the good days, you'll forget that you are wearing them.
On the bad days, you'll get on your knees and thank God you bought them. When I look at my pads, I shudder to think what my legs would like without them. I combined them with a pair of 661's excellent high top shoes for the ultimate in lower extremity protection(which also cured the above mentioned slipping problem). I've tumbled through boulder fields, hit trees at speed and suffered a major high speed logging road yard sale and the roach pads always keep me coming back for more. If anyone at Roach is reading this, my hats off to you for designing and manufacturing a superb product! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
gonzostrike
a Downhiller
from Missoula, MT
Date Reviewed: August 30, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Flying Monkey | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$40.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Doctor. Go Safety Team! | | Strengths: | full coverage, durable build, adjusts well, comfortable | | Weaknesses: | very warm | | Similar Products Used: | Core Rat | | Bike Setup: | Bullit love | | Bottom Line: | For DH and risky FR/stunts, these are far superior to the Core Rat leg armour. They look and feel bulky until you put them on and ride with them, and then they become almost invisible. Not great for pedaling uphill, but that's when I strap them onto the top tube.
They don't slide around, or up/down, like the Core Rat armour did. I took some nasty scrapes to the knee because my Core Rat armour moved so easily. Not an issue with the Roach armour.
Don't buy 'em for XC, but for all else, yes indeed! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bertaintsayin
a Downhiller
from vancouver
Date Reviewed: August 29, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | sherry sakamoto | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | dunno | | Weaknesses: | sort of flimsy in the back doesn't seem like you got alot of calf protection there, what if your crank snaps and stabs you in the back of the leg, better get ready for 60+ stiches. | | Similar Products Used: | CRUSHERS (or something lame) | | Bike Setup: | NORCO VPS | | Bottom Line: | well i rode around in em a few times, i never fall so it's like a waste of money. although it does give me alot of confidence to do really stupid sh*t. you don't notice they are on when riding, except when you get a stabbing feeling in your knee, and it seems some leg hair is being pulled in an odd direction from the pads (gross huh) yeah i'm no lycra fa**ot and i ain't shavin my damn legs just to go biking, so i'm putting up with it. it builds alot of confidence knowing you won't be bleeding all over the place. i don't much mind the bruises, because i know how to fall from extreme sports, the secret is to start rolling (i got body armor also), never i repeat never just fall and scrape make sure you take the fall and roll with it, it won't hurt you at all, your gear / clothes won't rip (as much) and you will be able to continue riding.
i wouldn't know if i should recommend these to anyone it all depends if you want to get hurt, and the type of clothing you wear. sorry fa*s, roach leg armor will not fit under your lycra spandex hahaha. aside from that, if you got some crazy shorts like the CORERAT battle long shorts (wicked shorts) then you got no problem looking cool with some roach armor on. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jim
a Downhiller
from anaheim , ca
Date Reviewed: August 9, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | dark hollow | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Strengths: | Tough outer material | | Weaknesses: | Slides off and exposes the knee during a wipe out. | | Similar Products Used: | fox | | Bike Setup: | norco z1 / fox | | Bottom Line: | These are better than the fox but tend to slide off during a wipe out. I have had the knee guard slide many times it allows my knee to get scuffed up. Any rocks / boulders will pull the upper part down during a fall. If you wear these make sure to strap them on really tight. Also the inner shin gaurd is really delicate avoid touching the velcro to it or it will tear. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kai n Max
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver BC Canada
Date Reviewed: August 4, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Road to Avonlea | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$65.00 | | Purchased At: | Simon's Bike Shop | | Strengths: | 100 bucks Canadian buys legs and arms. That's a kickass price for armour that not only protects better than you'd expect but also isn't too hard to pedal in if necessary and flexes better than full plate armour. Straps securely in place and doesn't shift when pedalling. Boosts confidence which in turn reduces the number of falls you take. | | Weaknesses: | A little time consuming to put on and the liner rips of course if you get sloppy and let the velcro stick to it. also if packed flat they take a while to break in but only a ride or two. alternately, you can wear them around the house and jump against walls. The neighbours do get a little alarmed however. | | Similar Products Used: | Flesh.
That's not a brand name, that's what we've left scattered across the shore. | | Bike Setup: | We both ride StumpJumpers which are aluminum XC frames, Max rides Manitou SX forks and Kai rides Dirt jumpers. Shimano, Black Spire, NRG and so on. | | Bottom Line: | These kick ass. We haven't tried full plate like Dainese or Core Rat but so far these are working just great. Several hard falls that would have meant walking home dripping before we got armour have been reduced to a few moments by the side of the trail shivering like a rabbit before hopping on and continuing to ride. If you freeride or even just trailride on weekends a set of armour will make a huge difference in your confidence and medical bills. These should do the trick. Happy falling! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Leo
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Angeles, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: July 20, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Ken Burton | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$69.00 | | Purchased At: | airbomb.com | | Strengths: | Great protection. Pads don't move once well secured. | | Weaknesses: | Really hot. No ventilation whatsoever. Kinda tough to pedal in, but I got used to it. | | Similar Products Used: | Fox Knee and Shin set. | | Bike Setup: | XC steel hardtail. | | Bottom Line: | Used the pads for the first time on a ride today and lo and behold, I endoed when I got lazy and didn't shift my weight back on the Sunset Trail. I landed heavily on my left knee and the pads protected me quite well. Too bad I didn't take the arm sets along too since my right arm could have used them. Next time, I'll take them along too. Oh, and I gotta get a Giro Switchblade now to protect my chin.
And other reviewers already posted that you gotta watch out to keep the velcro from touching the inside liners. The liners will torn quite easily if the velcro touches them.
Bottom line is that it's a great deal from airbomb.com. For $69, you get both leg and arm sets. Can't really beat that. A set of Dainese leg armor alone would cost you that much. But if you order them from airbomb.com, you gotta be patient. Took me about a month to get mine. I guess it's more Roach's fault or maybe Roach's having a tough time keeping up with demand. Now I see why. They're worth every dime and time you spend waiting for them. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria
Date Reviewed: July 17, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | WestShore | | Strengths: | Durable and great protection
Warranty - now through RaceFace
Keep you warm on winter rides | | Weaknesses: | Smokin' Hot on summer rides - get used to it | | Similar Products Used: | Fox 911 | | Bike Setup: | who cares | | Bottom Line: | Superb product. I had the stitching come out of the top of one pad where the upper strap attaches to the front-rear seam. Not enough material was left at the seam when they were first sewn and so it all parted after time.
I too have struggled with the online ROACH website recently but heard that RaceFace was now the new owner. Called the RaceFace warranty line and spoke with Andrew who was great! I was in Vancouver on business and so I swung buy their office. Very cool place and everyone was really nice...absolutely NO ATTITUDE like some shops or other bike spots. He fixed me up with a new pair of pads and said he would show the pads to Ingrid.
I have dealt with Ingrid on the phone for other things like INDY shorts and she has been great also but she had distribution problems for her stellar products. RaceFace seems to have all that sorted now and are backing her up very well. It is not a surprise that the 661 pads are a CARBON COPY of her design! She has the original and best. Top marks to ROACH and RaceFace! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
adam buck
a Weekend Warrior
from plainview, minnesota,USA
Date Reviewed: April 8, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | the street | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$75.00 | | Purchased At: | Roach Direct | | Strengths: | everything | | Weaknesses: | none other than customer service. I waited two months but wasn't dissappointed once I got them. | | Similar Products Used: | fox | | Bike Setup: | 01 enduro stock | | Bottom Line: | great pads. haven't got to much riding in with them but with what I have had they have performed outstanding.
i can't give them five flamin turds for overall though because of poor customer service. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a Weekend Warrior
from Kansas
Date Reviewed: March 22, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Clinton Lake | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Strengths: | Great Protection without hindering movement. | | Weaknesses: | Inside material is very delicate. If the velcro comes into contact with the inside material, it can rip it rather easily. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Cannondale Super V (all XTR) | | Bottom Line: | Just be careful that the velcro doesn't brush up against the inside lining. Otherwise, the pads are very durable. I've had one very bad fall on concrete where the outer material did not even show the slightest damage whatsovever (this was after a jump and crash off of a loading dock). If I hadn't had these Roach pads on at that time I would have surely been missing a great deal of skin along with a trip to the emergency room. I am not kidding - there would have been exposed bone had I not been wearing these pads. The pads held up perfectly and provided highly effective protection. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jan
a
from MA
Date Reviewed: February 14, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Bottom Line: | An update to my earlier review. . .
It looks like I was having communication problems with Roach during the time that they were being purchased by RaceFace. I'm sure that's why things were a little crazy.
Ingrid was kind enough to make a pair of pads to fit my sister. Thank you Ingrid! She also sent out a pair for me in time to receive for my husband's Christmas present.
Roach pads are essential in my mind! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jan
a
from Franklin, MA
Date Reviewed: October 8, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Milford | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Roach | | Strengths: | My leg pads are amazing. I just don't know what I'm going to do when they wear out. This worries me. I'm a small woman and I know it's going to be almost impossible for me to find a good set of leg pads again. | | Weaknesses: | I'll try to be nice, but the customer service is the worst! Your emails will go unanswered, and you will be promised things that will be undelivered. My credit card was charged well in advance of anything being shipped to me. Not good. | | Bike Setup: | Ellsworth Truth (my dream come true)/Race Face / Marz / XT / King. It has two wheels and makes me very happy when I go up the hill and then down the hill. | | Bottom Line: | I tried to be as nice as I could to Ingrid at Roach, however, I was so angry when I found out my credit card had been charged and no product had been shipped. I think her products are brilliant, and I'm quite disappointed that I won't be able to purchase any more products. The reason being, I can't get anyone to answer a bloody email message! I wanted to order a pair of pads for my sister, but they won't be able to fill this order either. My sister tried the sixsixone pads but they just don't fit her. She must return them and go without until she finds something else - unless someone at Roach decides to contact me before the end of the year . . . My overall rating represents my customer service experience only - I think the pads are wonderful if you can get them. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a
from Seattle
Date Reviewed: August 15, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | technical up, technical down, longer the better | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Airbomb | | Strengths: | Comfortable, light, durable, works well, STAYS PUT | | Weaknesses: | The Roach pads use flexible plastic inserts underneath the outer layer of nylon weave for impact spread and protection from penetration. This isn't as full-on tough as a big, heavy, solid plastic cap over the knee is, like on the Core Rats or some other pads (which have rotated on me right when I needed them - fat lot of good the heavy knee-cup does when it's not actually on my knee!). However, I think it's a good trade - these pads are still plenty tough for me, and their construction is what makes them light and stationary. | | Similar Products Used: | Core Rats | | Bike Setup: | SC Superlight with burly wheels, Hayes hydraulic discs, Z-1 X Fly | | Bottom Line: | I received these pads on a Friday, went chairlift riding in them at Snoqualmie Summit the following day and had the most gigantic wipe-out I've ever experienced on the face of the mountain. After the yard sale was done (and it took a while for me to stop tumbling) I was absolutely certain I was going to be injured in some multiple-hospital-visit-worthy way. But when I took physical stock of myself and disentangled myself from my bike, I realized that I was virtually unharmed (except for several large bruises). I had tumbled like 20 feet and slammed into quite a few huge, nasty rocks with all of my limbs and the pads hadn't budged an inch. Since I "should" have been fractured and gouged beyond all recognition, I decided that those pads paid for themselves easily 8 or 9 times over just in that one wreck. Thanks go also to my Pryme full-face helmet and my Camelbak Mule (which was thankfully still full of water), but these pads are a true thing of beauty. I wanna kiss them. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kyle
a Downhiller
from Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 16, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Sweet Street ( ontario) The Shore (BC) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | cove bike shop | | Strengths: | AMAZING AMAZING AMZAZING. They are a little warm, but hell. Whats a little sweat compadred to stiches or broken bones? | | Weaknesses: | of chourse not. THEY ARE ROACH. I think this section should be removed for Roach pads. | | Similar Products Used: | 661 | | Bike Setup: | 01 Kona Stinky. Hayes Hydros. Axiom guide. | | Bottom Line: | These are the kewlest, strongest and most amazing pads I have ever seen or tried. Sure they are gonna be a little warm. but compared to an injury thats nuttin! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony
a Weekend Warrior
from NJ
Date Reviewed: July 11, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$35.00 | | Purchased At: | airbomb | | Strengths: | suprisingly protective for a such a light pad.
very comfortable (barely know they're on).
fits like a glove after break-in.
versitle (dh, freeride, urban) | | Weaknesses: | can definitely "feel" high impact hits. However, I'll take a bruise over a fracture. | | Similar Products Used: | azonic | | Bike Setup: | freeride | | Bottom Line: | A light pad that offers the perfect combination of protection and comfort. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
STEVE KAHLUA
a Downhiller
from Port moody, BC
Date Reviewed: July 9, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | The Wall | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | the ridge | | Strengths: | lives up to the bombproof ads, it's canadian | | Weaknesses: | kinda itchy sometimes if you put it on wrong but that's my fault, it's hot in the summer | | Similar Products Used: | 661 | | Bottom Line: | THE BEST, BUILT FOR THE SHORE | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
North Shore Posse
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver,BC
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | 4 Lost Souls | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$85.00 | | Purchased At: | Cove Bike Shop | | Strengths: | No North Shore outing would be complete without my Roach leg armour,eh!100% made in Canada,so you know it's good!Never slips or comes loose.Fits so damn well you barely know it's there.This armour ain't about fashion--it's all about freeridin' eh! | | Weaknesses: | I wanna buy more! | | Similar Products Used: | I have sampled Core Rat and loved it,but it cost more than Roach and performs just as well,so.. | | Bike Setup: | 3 BIKES:Cove Stiffy trials bike,modified Norco VPS-2,and Balfa BB7.ALL CANADA,ALL THE TIME! | | Bottom Line: | Armour is a North Shore necessity,and everyone in my group wears Roach.It's the best,eh!Don't settle for Dainese or other crap--Buy Roach(or Core Rat)or go home!!5 sh$ts! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mr. Freeride
a Downhiller
from West Vancouver, The Shore
Date Reviewed: May 29, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Boggie Man, Groovula The trail formely Know as Reaper | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Purchased At: | The Roach Store | | Strengths: | Dead Sexy. Perfect protection. LIFE TIME WARRANTY!!!
They are Canadian. It has a canada flag on the tag. | | Weaknesses: | Nothing except... The useless warranty. These things will never break so whats the point. | | Similar Products Used: | Fox 911.661.Core Rat | | Bike Setup: | Stock Stinky Primo w/ Super T's (the best freeriding machine) | | Bottom Line: | Kona bikes and Roach armor are dangerous for ure health. Lets all do 8 footers and kill r selves. OK FRIEND. These are without a dought the best armor on the market. PERIOD. I am a 12 year old Xtreme freerider and these are THE best.
ROACH RULEZ. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a
from Vancouver, BC
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Nicole's | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$140.00 | | Purchased At: | Overtime Sports | | Strengths: | Stays in place. | | Weaknesses: | Hot - if you're riding XC. Otherwise, none. | | Similar Products Used: | Fox. | | Bike Setup: | GT Ruckus. | | Bottom Line: | I paid 140 of our Canadian pesos for both the arm and leg armour, and I'm glad I did. I've gotten pretty good at jumping over the bars when things go wrong, but that's not always possible. Aside from riding the local mountains, I also like dirt-jumping, and this is where my Roach gear saved me. I screwed-up the take-off, overcompensated in the air, and crashed. My arms and legs were covered with dirt, but I was completely scrape-free. I didn't feel a thing on impact, either. I'd recommend Roach to anyone. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Todd Votano
a Weekend Warrior
from Burnaby, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 19, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | The Shore | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | To be able to hit a tree at 40mph, get up and jump back onto your bike. | | Weaknesses: | One size fits all. Mine had to be custom made because of my 19" calves. | | Similar Products Used: | All of them. | | Bike Setup: | Custom 2001 Norco Shore. | | Bottom Line: | Riding the Shore the other day and out of no-where, a deer runs across the trail and sends me flying into a tree. My right knee smacks against the trunck at 40 mph and I felt nothing. I immediately jump up and run over to my bike to check for damage. After checking the bike, I adjusted my pads and was surprised that my leg was fine. Love my Roach pads. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Downhiller
from Dana Point CA USA
Date Reviewed: May 8, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | holey Mackrel | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Tek | | Strengths: | Fits well, bullet proof, comfortable. | | Similar Products Used: | AXO, fox. Nothing compares to Roach. | | Bike Setup: | Demon and Mad Dog by Psyclewerks. Nothing more needs to be said. | | Bottom Line: | These pads kick A$$. Some people have complained about the leg temp problem but there is an easy solution. Take them off for the hike or ride back up and use the velcro straps to attach them to your handlebars. This is really only an issue in the summer but this little trick makes taking them on the long rides a no brainer. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Victoria, BC
Date Reviewed: April 23, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Bulletproof
Lifetime warranty....on clothes!?! | | Weaknesses: | Hot in the summer | | Similar Products Used: | Fox 911, Dianese | | Bike Setup: | irrelevant | | Bottom Line: | The best damn pads money can buy | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tyler
a Downhiller
from Vancouver
Date Reviewed: April 22, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | The Flying Circus | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$49.00 | | Purchased At: | Roach direct | | Strengths: | Every thing very, well padded ect, ect, ect ...... | | Weaknesses: | none...yet | | Similar Products Used: | Fex | | Bike Setup: | Marin Quake 9.0, Judy dho, shimano XTR | | Bottom Line: | Awsome pads for your money, i would definatly recomend anyone to buy these ..... ......... ...... ....... .......
They're Grrrrrrrrreat | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston, Texas
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | just find me a mountain... | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$75.00 | | Purchased At: | Roach Clothing | | Strengths: | Rugged, Durable, Tough - Hardly feel impacts | | Weaknesses: | Hot | | Bike Setup: | GT Zaskar custom build | | Bottom Line: | Got these for some downhilling in Colorado and MAN they rock! Actually they keep you from feeling the rocks! I never wiped out on the slopes, but my friend did (he was also wearing a set) - and was essentially untouched thanks to these pads. His helmet was caved in, and took some shoulder damage (no armor there), but the pads absorbed most of the impact.
Just thought I would pitch in towards the already sky-high rating on these fine pads! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a
from Edmonton
Date Reviewed: April 7, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Ewok Forest (Damn city tore it down....@$$holes)) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | These are the best leg armor I have EVER tried. I own the DH version, and they work better then anything I have ever tried. They are a bit stiff in the knee, but that is something that can be changed with use. They are really rare too, which adds a "wow" factor to them. I love the wrap around style which adds some extra security. Roach knows what they are doing. | | Weaknesses: | A bit stiff, but they save your ass. | | Similar Products Used: | Dainese | | Bottom Line: | The best leg armor EVER. Roach deserves a Nobel Prize for these pads. They inspire confidence, and protect you when that confidence carries you a little too far. My only quibble is that it can be kind of constricting around the knee for cross country rides, but who rides XC with these babies??? If you are in question on what to buy, get these. They are the best on the market. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob F
a Weekend Warrior
from New haven, CT
Date Reviewed: March 24, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Purchased At: | roach | | Strengths: | they do their job, stay put and look cool | | Weaknesses: | dont feel cool | | Similar Products Used: | fox 911 | | Bike Setup: | GF paragon with upgrades | | Bottom Line: | these pads kick a$$. Today can honestly say these pads saved my butt from serious injury. I have some fox 911s... that will never again see the trail.
the only thing about these pads is that their hot... so when the summer comes its either sweat it out... or not try the nasty stuff...
i guess i'll sweat it out :)
if you value your skin and bones you'll get these pads! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris
a
from NYC
Date Reviewed: January 27, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | not trails, lines-this is nyc ya know | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | thru Roach direct | | Strengths: | looks
comfort,comfort,comfort
of course, protection
ooooooooooh factor(in NYC at least) | | Weaknesses: | none really. low availability but thats what makes them so cooool.
shipping time from Canada to Ny is a beotch | | Similar Products Used: | fox (ccccccccccccccccrrap!)
azonic, excellent protection (but...)
skateboard knee pads and shin guards | | Bike Setup: | SPOOKY metalhead which goes through various stages of destruction and reconstruction. | | Bottom Line: | Bottom line, these pads are the best.Unreal comfort and unrestrained movement along with great protection make this the best choice for real riding.the design is simple and ingenius:seperate plastic shells attached to one solid foam give the wearer complete manueverability. you feel as if your not wearing pads at all. Luckily, i've somewhat smoothed over, but i bail alot. i've tried lots of products to help save me old kneecaps. fox sucks-period.great clothes but their 911 pads and the other crappy hard shells stink. azonics offer excellent protection, probably more than these. however, the catch is they are unbearable hot, causing lots of sweat-lots if slippage. what good are plastic knee caps if they are ,uh, not on your knees?plus they slip after a crash. the skateboard thing works the best but are (imho)uncomfortable as all hell. get roach. Serious. im not kidding. for real. NYC!!!!metro:) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
George Mattera
a Weekend Warrior
from Brooklyn, NY USA
Date Reviewed: January 17, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Fast Singletrack | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$80.00 | | Purchased At: | Roach Clothing | | Strengths: | Strong, Well made protection. They fit well without much movement. They allow you to ride with ultimate confindence and comfort | | Bike Setup: | Santacruz Heckler, Xtr , Marzocchi QR20 | | Bottom Line: | Thes pads let you ride hard and still be comfortable. what a diiference!!! Thank You Roach! The pants kick ass too! This product is for anyone who enjoys trying new things, for the people who attempt to clear everything. With these pads you don't mind getting up and trying again, they inspire confidence | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a
from Connecticut, USA
Date Reviewed: October 6, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Plattekill | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$80.00 | | Purchased At: | Roach | | Strengths: | Everything. The padding is amazing, they dont move off ur leg. very comfy, custom fit to your legs. Lifetime replacement warrenty. | | Weaknesses: | Roach pads or gear don't have weaknesses | | Similar Products Used: | fox crap | | Bike Setup: | Gt Lts 2000 DS, zzyzx, mr. dirt chainguide | | Bottom Line: | These are awesome pads. They have saved me many many times from pavement, rocks, trees, bikes, and pedals. They are the best leg armor money can buy. If you freeride or downhill dont go buy that danise crap just cuz the pros use it. That stuff rips apart. Roach are the only way to go. GO BUY THESE! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
UNABIKER
a Downhiller
from The Wild Kingdom
Date Reviewed: September 22, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Pain Cave | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$80.00 | | Purchased At: | Roach | | Strengths: | Full leg coverage, they don't move around on your legs, they'll probably last longer than me. | | Weaknesses: | None.Sure they're warm, so is a full face helmet. Some people just don't get it! | | Similar Products Used: | Core Rat(Moved around during crashes, straps fell apart, no full coverage), Qrancq(lasted about a week).
The Bottom Line: *
| | Bike Setup: | Santa Cruz UNABIKER-DH pro model | | Bottom Line: | The best leg armore I've tried. They are expensive but not as much as 60 stitches, which is what you'll get if you wear core rat or qranq junk. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James McC
a Weekend Warrior
from Port Moody, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 11, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Randy's and B&A | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$45.00 | | Purchased At: | www.roachclothing.com | | Strengths: | They are comfortable and improve confidence 2000 %. I've come of big drops right onto these pads without feeling a thing. Rather than limping home I can climb back up and try again! | | Weaknesses: | Like I said in my arm armour review they are warm but in Vancouver that mean about two months a year you can wear them. | | Similar Products Used: | Soccer shin pads. They were fine for the skins but they looked like hell and did nothing for the knees (now scarred). | | Bike Setup: | RM Blizzard | | Bottom Line: | They are cool, Canadian made and say hi to Ingrid at the store. She designed them for people like you and me to get out and enjoy all they insane stuff that is on the trails. I'm going to give them 5 smoking chili's for the awesome quality and design. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James LaPointe
a Racer
from Markham, Ont, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 1, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Cyclepath Waterloo | | Strengths: | bombproof, great stuff .
not hot, look good,
no fancy design (who needs that stuff) | | Weaknesses: | dosn't breath very well for me, shows easily when all the sweat on my leg is there when the huge pads come off. | | Bike Setup: | dosn't matter | | Bottom Line: | great pads, worth the 100 canadian i payed, and makes for a comfy crash | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
scooter mcgavin
a Downhiller
from halifax
Date Reviewed: August 26, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | really good protection
don't slip off you're legs
look good | | Weaknesses: | at first they pinched the top of
my knee, but that stoped now. | | Similar Products Used: | lizard skins | | Bike Setup: | 99 kona manomano, lx crank, zzyzx original,betd plates
for 5" of travel, other than that it's stock | | Bottom Line: | these are really great pads
i have never really had any big problems
with them, except for the pinchin of the knee's. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Velvet Hog
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado
Date Reviewed: May 9, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Very good fit: These things stay in place after you put them on you can forget all about them. Coverage: They cover from the ankle to about 6 inches above the knee including the back of the calf. Mobility: Once the straps are adjusted properly there is no binding what so ever. | | Weaknesses: | Honestly none that I have encountered. My legs get sweaty, but that is a non-issue as far as I am concerned. | | Similar Products Used: | AXO hard knee/shin guards. | | Bike Setup: | 2000 Kona Roast
Jamis Stock Trials | | Bottom Line: | I have only had these about one month, but have saved several stitches for sure. This a truly excellent product that does exactly what it is supposed to do. The pads are pricey, but for the absolute quality they are a great deal. Of all of the bike related stuff I have purchased over the past 20 years these things rate very near the top. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim Bugbee
a Weekend Warrior
from North Andover, MA
Date Reviewed: April 23, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | just one? | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | this review is for the DS model (hard shin, soft knee)
- fit (you barely realize you have these on when you are pedaling)
- protection (esp the rear of the leg. pedals like to munch from behind, too)
| | Weaknesses: | as pretty much everyone mentioned, your legs do heat up in these things. i haven't had them for summer riding yet, so the worst is yet to come. but they are good for keeping your legs warm for winter or night rides. i'm not sure how optimal you can go w/ the most protection/heat disapation paradox. i'd rather have my legs sweat than suffer because of wimpy padding.
they do cost a bit too, and we'll see how the durability factor is after a year or so. | | Similar Products Used: | Hammer 3-Z pads | | Bike Setup: | spooky pit boss w/ Z1
ted wojcik fully w/ Z1
schwinn homegrown w/ rigid fork (stock trials) | | Bottom Line: | these things are the best pads i've used. period. the hammers were way wimpier and used to cause blisters on one shin from rubbing. the pads are a perfect fit, and keep the pedal cages from destroying your leg. i bought them mainly for trials use, but have ended up using them quite a bit for trail riding too where i use clipless pedals.
if you use flat pedals, i would highly recommend them. they've already paid for themselves many times over in pain and suffering costs. however, they are still useful for trail riders, esp when you run out of talent on a nasty section of trail. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Colin Smith
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Greaser+Dentist+Randy's+B&A | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | These are by far the best pads on the market. Their rugged construction, design, and fit make them ideal for any Freeride/DH/DS situation. | | Weaknesses: | They get a little warm on the ride up, but then again, you probably shouldn't have them on while climbing. (They strap to your top tube quite nicely) | | Similar Products Used: | Fox 911, Shift knee/shin pads. | | Bike Setup: | Doesn't matter... | | Bottom Line: | Two words: Confidence Inspiring | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Travis
a Weekend Warrior
from Nanaimo, B.C.
Date Reviewed: January 10, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: |
urban assault | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Tough
saves the legs
looks cool | | Weaknesses: |
a little warm, but the protection is worth it | | Similar Products Used: |
none | | Bike Setup: |
Kona chute
bomber Jr.T
mammoth rims w/ kujo's | | Bottom Line: | I love these pads, the best investment i ever made. The day i bought them, i smoked my pedal into my shin and i didn't even feel a thing. These are a must if you run platform pedals like me. They are a little expensive, but so worth it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Murph
a Cross-Country Rider
from Longmont, CO
Date Reviewed: October 28, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Secret Trails | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Fit
Easy on/off
Construction | | Weaknesses: |
Warm | | Similar Products Used: |
Bully | | Bike Setup: |
Turner XCE
Marzocchi Z1 X-Fly
Syncros
Avid
XTR | | Bottom Line: | Great protection, even better customer service. I bought the slalom model (hard shin/soft knee). Like some other folks with other than normal bodies, I have short, muscular legs (22 thighs, 17 calfs and 27 inseam). They took the critical dimensions over the phone, along with credit card #, and 2 weeks later they arrived. The fit is unbelievable, you don't even know you have them on once you get going, other than the warmth. But it will cool down here quickly, so they should be great for winter and night riding. I highly recommend these. They stay put, don't slip around. The best feature may be just related to me, I don't seem to crash much when wearing pads, even though going harder and faster. Wierd. 5 big dogs for these pups. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sick Air
a Downhiller
from NY
Date Reviewed: June 25, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Orgasm Too | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Great Protection for front and back of leg. | | Weaknesses: |
Warm | | Similar Products Used: |
Qranc leg armor | | Bike Setup: |
Titus Quasimoto
Z1 Bam XTR | | Bottom Line: | These pads have saved my legs from tons of abuse. They are a little too warm to ride on XC rides but I wear them every time I ride DH. Well worth the money. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Harreson
a Weekend Warrior
from Rossland
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Every trail in Rossland | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Great adjustable wrap around fit, full coverage.
There CANADIAN! | | Weaknesses: |
A little warm, but you get used to them. | | Similar Products Used: |
none, because these are the only complete full coveragepads | | Bike Setup: |
Full suspension Turner, Bomber Z1's
Roach bike armour
Huge fatt rubber | | Bottom Line: | I use the DH, hard knee/shin armour plus the arm pads also. These make you feel a lot more confident on the stupid stuff, because you know you'll get up with you're skin intact.
A superb Canadian made product, wear mine all the time, Saved my skin many times, along with one crash I'm sure would of broken my kneecap if I wasn't wearing them | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tai
a Cross-Country Rider
from New York, NY
Date Reviewed: May 21, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Hartshorn, Plattekill | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Near-perfect fit, comfortable, don't move around, easy on/off, quality construction | | Weaknesses: |
Warm!!!!!!! | | Similar Products Used: |
Fox 911s | | Bike Setup: |
RM Element T.O., Manitou SX-R, Fox Vanilla Float RC | | Bottom Line: | I ride with Kordoroy (see review down the page), and he recommended these. I had mine custom made, as I have short shins but huge calfs (14 shins, 18 calfs), and they fit just about perfectly. The armor doesn't get in the way when you ride, in fact, you hardly know it's there until you need it. I have the hard shin/soft knee combo - DS, I think - and it's great for singletrack, Ds, and even DH. The customer service at Roach is great, too. Very highly recommended - great quality, great customer service, all around good company. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Me
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver,BC,Canada
Date Reviewed: April 5, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Corkscrew or Boogie Man on Seymore, North Van, | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
I have the DH version (Hard shin, Hard knee) and they've saved my legs more times than I'd like to admit. They're also very comfortable and don't get in the way while riding. (Just rode 50 or so KM on the road in them on the way home from a ride) | | Weaknesses: |
They don't breath too well... | | Similar Products Used: |
Fox knee/shin guards (BOO-URNS) | | Bottom Line: | They're great. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Caleb Penner
a Cross-Country Rider
from Chilliwack, BC
Date Reviewed: March 23, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Anything on Vedder, British Columbia | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Well, I bought these after my mom wouldn't let me ride until I got armour. I have the DH(hard leg, knee) version. The seem to be durable, and have saved my shins/knees many times since I bought them. | | Weaknesses: |
Well, they are very hot, even in winter I sweat in them. I noticed that there are threads hanging down that I need to cut off. | | Similar Products Used: |
none | | Bike Setup: |
I do Trials and Downhill, XC. | | Bottom Line: | These are good, although hot.
5 for crash protection, 3 for being hot, and 3 for the threads hanging down. 4 total. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
YardSale
a weekend warrior
from Vancouver
Date Reviewed: March 8, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I just love my Roach gear. The leg armour fits well and protects me when I bail. You won't go wrong if you get some. The pads are lined with lycra so they are comfortable. They have have knee and shin pads and the ones I have are hard on the outside except at the knees. They are a bit warm for climbing but they are light enough to carry (just wrap them around your top tube or put them in your pack) then strap on when you're ready to decend. Click on thier site, you can order right off the web. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Werner
a weekend warrior
from Vancouver, B.C.
Date Reviewed: February 4, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
One of the best accesories I have ever bought. I never ride without them---saved my knees numerous times and more important allow me to be much more daring. Believe me the big one will happen one day(it did to me)so go out and buy these beauties and rip up some real trails! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Anarchist
a weekend warrior
from Toronto, Ontario
Date Reviewed: January 21, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Roach rocks! Went to BC to try the north shore and ended up buying some armour. Roach was what was recommended and now I can see why! I have the SS version but I took em apart and put in some plastic inserts so I basically have the DS version but at the SS price! I wear them all the time, even on the road sometimes cause hey, you never know when the next crash is. only complain...not very breathable...but it's all good!It gets 10 chillies! ...but only 5'll show up...
Allan | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Keith
a racer
from Vancouver, British Columbia
Date Reviewed: January 21, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Sweet Stuff! I've lost quit a bit if skin on my legs, but no more! I bought the Roach DH leg Armour and love it! Keeps your legs in one piece extremely well!
Five Chilis for Roach | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
¤Kordoroy¤
a weekend warrior
from NYC
Date Reviewed: December 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
i really like the fit of these pads. they do not slip at all. i have the new 99 models i think, with the lycra backing and three straps. i have only been ona couple of rides with them, but from what i can see, they are great. you cant even feel them on you, they dont get in the way of pedaling, and they impress all the girls, which is the most important....
¤PEACE¤ | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeremy
a downhiller
from Canada
Date Reviewed: December 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Roach gear is the way to go. I work as a courier and DH on my free time and it seems like I never take my Roach gear off. These pads have saved my skin so many times I don't ride without them. And in the cold they keep you warm too(important in the Great White North). | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin
a
from weekend warrior
Date Reviewed: November 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
this stuuf is the bomb. I got them after i had a magor crash and lost so much skin it all most down to the bone. I got these and wear them almost all the time there excellent. They are a little stiff but thats to be expected from armor. I also like the arm gaurds they work well too. questions just e-mail me, it's that simple. | | Overall Rating: |
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