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In 1999 a 20-year-old from Tavullia won the 250cc World Championship with Aprilia. Valentino Rossi had not yet reached the premier class, but the season gave him his second world title. The from Leather Collection is a replica inspired by the gear from that season. This guide covers the 1999 season, the construction the product page lists and what the protection standards mean.
Key Takeaways
- Valentino Rossi won the 1999 250cc World Championship for Aprilia, his second world title.
- The replica is listed in fluorescent green, fluorescent red and white to match the 1999 Aprilia season.
- The product page lists 1.2-1.3 mm cowhide, pre-curved sleeves and a 100% polyester mesh lining.
- Removable shoulder and elbow armor is listed to EN 1621-1:2012, with a back protector compatible with EN 1621-2.
Rossi and Aprilia in 1999
Rossi was the sole rider of the Aprilia Grand Prix Racing team in the 250cc class in 1999 and clinched the title in Rio de Janeiro before the final round, according to his Wikipedia biography. His sun and moon helmet design and number 46 became recognizable from that period. The 250cc two-stroke era is the reason the jacket appeals to collectors of 1990s Grand Prix gear. Related pieces sit in the collection and in from other seasons.
Construction Listed on the Product Page
- 1.2-1.3 mm drum-dyed milled cowhide, chosen for abrasion resistance during track riding.
- Kevlar-look stretch Cordura panels at the sleeves and calves.
- Safety stitching at impact zones, YKK semi auto-lock coil zippers and pre-curved sleeves for the riding position.
- 100% polyester mesh lining and one inner mesh chest pocket.
- Speed hump options: none, standard, ventilated or hydro.
Armor and What the Standards Mean
The page lists removable armor at the shoulders and elbows to EN 1621-1:2012 and a removable spine protector compatible with EN 1621-2. EN 1621-1 covers impact protectors for limb joints. For Level 1 the mean transmitted force must stay below 35 kN with no single value above 50 kN; Level 2 requires lower transmitted force. EN 1621-2 covers back protectors. Both standards define two levels, and lower transmitted force means more protection, according to SATRA. A tested protector reduces the force reaching the body; it does not prevent injury.
Wearing a Replica Today
A race replica suits track days and weekend rides, and the speed hump and perforation choices let the fit be adjusted for the rider. For a matched look, add or look at for a later Aprilia design. Choose the size with the riding position in mind, since the pre-curved sleeves are shaped for a rider leaning forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which championship did Valentino Rossi win in 1999?
Rossi won the 250cc World Championship in 1999 as the sole rider of the Aprilia Grand Prix Racing team. He secured the title in Rio de Janeiro before the final round of the season. It was his second world title overall, and he moved up to the 500cc class in 2000.
What colors does the 1999 replica jacket use?
The product page lists fluorescent green, fluorescent red and white, described as matching the 1999 Aprilia season. The jacket is a replica inspired by the gear from that period, not an item made by the team or the rider, so branding and colors follow the season rather than a specific suit.
What do EN 1621-1 and EN 1621-2 cover?
EN 1621-1 covers impact protectors for limb joints such as shoulders and elbows, and EN 1621-2 covers back protectors. Both define performance levels based on the force transmitted through the protector in a test. A lower transmitted force indicates better protection, but a standard describes test results and does not rule out injury.
Can the jacket be fitted with a back protector?
The product page lists a removable spine protector compatible with EN 1621-2, so a back protector can be used with the jacket. Check the listed protector options and the fit before riding, because a back protector only helps when it sits correctly along the spine and is worn with the jacket fastened.
Written by the Leather Collection Editorial Team.
