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Written And Tested By: Eddie Laret
Alpinestars Supertech RK-10 PLASMA knee brace is another option to the high-end knee brace market. With a compact low-profile design offering super levels of off-road performance during dynamic movements. The brace is constructed with a 34-layer carbon frame, making it very lightweight, breathable and very comfortable. RK-10 PLASMA is layered with soft-touch neoprene condyle padding further prevents slipping of the knee brace.
Key Features on the RK-10 PLASMA:
Developed using feedback from professional riders, frame geometry was meticulously formulated using countless 3D scans of professional athletes to ensure the optimal internal volume and precise hinge width for maximum comfort during use.
The replacement knee cups are constructed with a polyurethane outer shell backed with a nucleon PLAMSA knee protector for a blend of impact protection, flexibility, and scratch resistance.
The extremely stable, compact low-profile four-point hinge system follows the articulation of the knee while the extension stops, which are available in a range from 0-30 degrees, assist in the setting the brace to the desired maximum opening angle.
My normal every day knee braces are the CTI 3 knee braces so I was excited to try the RK-10 PLASMA because of its sleek design and smaller constructed knee cup. The RK-10 PLASMA has a four-way Velcro strap design and fully adjustable on both sides of the brace. The strap design makes it easy to get the brace tight to your leg, especially to my big ass legs. The ultra sleek design and carbon frame makes the brace feel lightweight but also feels very sturdy for protection. After spending very little time on the PLASMA’s I was able to adjust the side knee pads and hinges to better fit my knee. Without a full custom brace sometimes, you can get hot spots or feel some slippage after a couple hours of riding. The RK-10 PLASMA has a very firm fit feel but is comfortable on your skin due to the soft-touch neoprene padding. The four-way elastic strap that holds the knee cup into place gives the brace a medium resistance feeling when you collapse the brace. When sliding your pants over the knee brace, I didn’t feel any snagging or hang ups from the Velcro straps or knee cups as it had a seamless feel to them.
I spent a few weeks riding in the RK-10 PLASMA knee braces around Southern California. The first thing I noticed is the seamless feel up against the plastic on the motorcycle. I didn’t feel like the braces were digging into the inseam of the pant causing it to hang up on the plastic. I’m a taller rider so when I hit my knee on the bottom of the bars. The RK-10 PLASMA gives you peace of mind that your knee cup area is fully protected from roost/debris and any sharp objects under your bar. I prefer the RK-10 PLASMA’s soft-touch neoprene padding when it contacts your leg compared to the CTi3 that I have been wearing. It makes the Alpinestars braces feel like it’s glued to your leg, which is a very “almost a part of you” type comfortable feel. One other thing that is important to me is that it doesn’t jab or stab me in anyway and the PLASMA’s don’t do this, which is rare as I am bigger dude. I didn’t notice the weight to be an issue while riding so me not noticing anything is a good thing when it comes to weight feel. I feel like Alpinestars did a great job with the overall protection/fit and finishes on the RK-10 PLASMA. The minor setback is you will have to tighten the straps throughout the day. I noticed the brace would lift off my leg upward when it was at 90 degrees. I was able to tighten the strap and fix the problem. The braces themselves would not slip downward, but the frame did catch a rise throughout the day. Even though I only have a few months on these braces they have held up well and show no signs of wear or breakage with small parts or joints.
The ALPINESTARS RK-10 PLASMA is available through retailers or at www.alpinestars.com. Retail price is at $899.99. These braces are staying in my gear bag or a while or until I find something better. For an OTS (off the shelf) brace, the price is in the ballpark of most and I feel like they are a great buy.