The 2019 MotoGP season was a year of transition and grit, especially for the French sensation Johann Zarco. Making his much-anticipated move to the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team, Zarco brought a unique, analytical riding style to the RC16. While the season was a challenging test of character, it solidified Zarco's reputation as one of the hardest-working riders on the grid.
For fans of the "Flying Frenchman" and the "Ready to Race" philosophy of KTM, the , available at Leather Collection, is more than a piece of apparel. It is a technical recreation of the gear that defined a pivotal chapter in KTM’s premier-class history.
Engineered for Factory Performance
A MotoGP jacket must serve two masters: uncompromising safety and effortless mobility. The Zarco 2019 replica is built to bridge the gap between professional racing standards and the practical needs of street riders and track enthusiasts.
Premium Material Composition
Top-Grain Cowhide Leather: Crafted from 1.2mm to 1.3mm premium-grade leather, this jacket provides a robust barrier against abrasion while maintaining the suppleness required for comfort.
Schoeller-Keprotec® Stretch Panels: High-strength elasticated zones are integrated into the underarms and inner sleeves. These panels ensure the rider can shift weight across the bike without being restricted by the leather.
Nylon Safety Stitching: Every critical seam is reinforced with high-strength nylon thread and triple-stitched to ensure the jacket remains intact during a high-speed slide.
Advanced Safety: The Shield of the RC16
KTM is famous for its aggressive engineering, and the safety features of this jacket reflect that intensity. It incorporates modern armor systems designed to protect the rider from impact and friction.
Technical Protective Features
CE-Approved Internal Armor: The jacket features removable, dual-density protectors at the shoulders and elbows, meeting international safety standards for shock absorption.
External TPU Shoulder Sliders: Hard-shell Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) sliders are mounted on the shoulders. These allow for a smoother slide upon contact with the asphalt, preventing the "grab and tumble" effect.
Aerodynamic Speed Hump: Designed to reduce drag at high speeds, the hump also provides an additional layer of protection for the neck and upper spine.
Back Protector Pocket: An internal pocket is provided for an optional CE-level back protector, allowing for customized safety upgrades.
Ergonomics and Rider Comfort
is known for his precise, almost surgical approach to racing. To support such a style, the jacket features an "active-fit" ergonomic profile.
Performance and Cooling Details
Pre-Curved Sleeve Design: The sleeves are pre-shaped to mirror the natural curve of a rider's arms on the handlebars. This reduces muscle fatigue and prevents the leather from bunching up at the elbows.
Accordion Leather Stretch Panels: Strategically placed "bellows" at the shoulders and lower back allow the jacket to flex naturally as the rider moves in and out of a racing tuck.
Soft Collar and Cuffs: Neoprene-lined edges prevent skin irritation and chafing during long, intense rides in the heat.
The Iconic Red Bull KTM Factory Aesthetic
Visually, this jacket is a stunning tribute to the 2019 Factory KTM livery. Featuring the bold KTM Orange, Navy Blue, and White color scheme, it carries the official sponsor logos and Zarco’s signature race number "5."
Unlike cheap screen-printed alternatives, the branding is applied via professional leather patchwork. This ensures that the graphics remain vibrant and resistant to fading, even after exposure to sun, wind, and engine heat.
Final Thoughts
The Johann Zarco Red Bull KTM MotoGP 2019 Jacket is an essential piece of gear for any KTM enthusiast. It allows you to wear the colors of a factory team while benefiting from the safety innovations that protect the world’s fastest riders.
