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Product Evaluation

Eclipse Note: This just in 12-09-02! Eclipse has stopped manufacturing electric clothing - for now.  They may have some remaining inventory for sale - some of it at closeout prices. You can't go wrong with their product, saving a bundle wouldn't hurt either. You can see these products on their web site www.eclipseluggage.com under "Specials" at the bottom of the page. Editor

Electric Riding Gear: Eclipse Eclipse Alpine Chaps Eclipse Quantum Thermostat

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Eclipse Yukon Classic Electric Vest
The Yukon vest from Eclipse is attractive and well made. Features include two large heated handwarmer pockets, a tall corduroy lined collar, and a decorative western styled yoke.   You'll also find a comfortable interior lining backed by 3M Thinsulate™ insulation, an elasticized rear waistband and a quality YKK plastic zipper.

Combined, these elements create a very comfortable garment. It's great for insulation even with the electrics off, and looks good when off the bike.  When the power is  let loose you'll receive an excellent level of evenly spaced heat. The trim fit, excellent heated collar and elasticized rear waist band only add to the vests excellent heat output. Eclipse has chosen to hide their plug-in (with no exposed cord) well inside the vest. We'd like to see a short cord instead, making it much easier to hook up. We highly recommend purchasing an optional Y adapter to use with this vest.

This vest clearly rates an A and is one of the best for style and comfort off the bike.

Draw: 45 Watts
Suggested Retail Price: $ 149.95 (with on/off switch cord)
Suggested Retail Price: $ 169.95 (with Quantum thermostat)
Sizes: XS - XXL (34-60)

Product Score Card

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Eclipse Alpine Chaps
The Alpine chaps exude function and ease of use. The strap system, which wraps around the back of your legs, is very wide and attaches with generous amounts of Velcro. The result is a quick and widely adjustable strap system which actually covers a fair portion of the back of your legs. The elasticized waist strap attaches with a, larger than necessary, plastic buckle.

The 3M Thinsulate lined chaps are constructed of a weather-proof Oxford® nylon, insulated with 3M Thinsulate™ and lined inside with a breathable polycotton. 

The electrics generate excellent heat, on a par with Widder, and feature extra wires (heat) in the knee area. Included is a Y adapter for splitting into the vest and power cord.

These chaps are thick, so you'll be wearing them over your pants for sure. They fit, however, just fine under most riding pants or suits. These chaps are winners for their ease of use, and the best for over-the-pants use. They rate a solid A.

Draw: 45 Watts
Suggested Retail Price: $ 124.95
Sizes: S - XL (30-46 waist)

Product Score Card

Summary Chart | Gerbing's | Widder | Home | Top Of Page | Product Evaluations

Eclipse Quantum Thermostat
The Eclipse thermostat, like other thermostats we tested, has booth strong and weak points. One of the pluses is the unit has a built-in belt clip which enables you to clip it  to the handle of your tankbag.  If you have to leave the unit dangling, because there is nothing to clip it to, you'll find the unit is too large.

As for heat control, adjustment is as simple as turning a knob. The problem is, you'll never know exactly where it's set without looking down to see the unit. When temperatures are low, the unit functions as well as any other. When temperatures are only cool and you want just a little heat, you'll get too much. This unit is of the bi-metallic type, which turns the power on and off to adjust the temperature.

You won't go wrong with this thermostat, but like other units, it hasn't been made as user friendly as we'd like.

Suggested Retail Price: $ 49.95

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