For most motocross riders, a back protector is an indispensable item of equipment, because it shields the spine from impact. In addition, this specific item prevents major abrasions if the driver takes a tumble and slides over the ground. The back protector is usually attached by means of belts or elasticated straps. A beneficial feature is that the protective system is ergonomically designed to fit the body shape of the wearer. The rider has to retain flexibility of movement and not feel unnecessarily restricted by his or her protective clothing. Consequently, the back protector needs to be made of lightweight, flexible material which nonetheless guarantees high-performance impact mitigation.

Nils Gehrke is one ADAC MX Masters rider who never goes out on track without this special protective system. "The back protector has already saved me from many injuries," says the 23-year-old. "It significantly absorbs the force of the impact and is also very effective against lumps of rock." ADAC MX Youngster Cup contestant Tom Koch likewise regards the back protector as a vital piece of equipment. "When you come off your bike, you have that added layer of protection," explains the 18-year-old. "I use an Ortema protector which covers the entire spine from top to bottom. This makes me feel much safer."

Two talented youngsters from the ADAC MX Junior Cup, Nina and Nico Baumgartner both aged 13, swear by the quality of the O'Neal system. "This back protector not only offers excellent shielding but is also very comfortable and adapts well to body shape," the twins tell us. Fellow competitor René Hofer (14) doesn't wear a separate back protector. His version is woven into a chain mail vest that protects both the back and the chest as well as the shoulders and elbows. "I manage to ride my bike OK with this all-round solution," says the Austrian teenager. "Comprehensive protection is especially important for us young riders, as we tend to make significantly more errors than the big guys."

Back protection is therefore available in different formats and supplements various other protective systems in minimising the risk of injury.