Even in this updated version, the Baker 2 remains a supple cowskin leather motorcycle jacket for those who love a vintage, classic, retro look and style. Back to the second half of the 1940s combined with today’s comfort and safety.
A small disclaimer: in the second half of the 40s motorcycles didn’t reach speeds of 300 kilometres per hour. That means that this jacket was not developed to break speed records. It will probably be a lot more comfortable used for cruising on a café racer or custom bike.
The Baker 2 is largely made of supple cowhide of a little over one millimetre. The ‘used look’ saves you a couple of thousand kilometres to finally look credible. What does look contemporary is the textile lining, the magnetic closure at the collar and a combination of those modern touches that feels practical and comfortable. This dichotomy is no exception, either: what you see is what you get, it’s as simple as that. Don’t look for membranes or a removable thermal lining; nor waterproofness, which isn’t listed as a feature of the Baker 2.
In the forties, there were two options: on or off. That was it. Held spares you that dilemma because the central zip of the Baker 2 has been fitted with the HELD ACS system, which means that there’s a perforated second flap with zip underneath that main zipper. Leaving the outer layer open means your jacket is still closed and wind can enter through the mesh layer, creating a certain cooling effect.
Everything else is basic – but then again, that’s also quite subjective: decent press studs, solid zippers, four chest and slash pockets, two more inner pockets, adjustment options on the hips, the option to fit in chest protectors and/or a back protector … Seeing it listed like this, we think basic is quite comprehensive here. Bikers from the 1940s wouldn’t know what hit them.
The impact protectors on the shoulders and elbows are D3O Ghost protectors and as the name suggests, they accentuate being inconspicuously thin and flexible, as well as their protective purposes. Supple, slick and slender.
The Baker 2 is an upgrade and in this version the design and patches were pushed in the right direction. With decent motorcycle jeans pants and a pair of motorcycle sneakers, the only thing missing is a matte black motorcycle with exhaust wrap and handlebar end mirrors.
Below you will find an overview per jacket size of the appropriate CE homologated D3O back protector.
| size of the jacket | D3O back protector | |
|---|---|---|
| 48 => 54 | => | L |
| 56 => 64 | => | XL |
There is maintenance clothing and then there is clothing maintenance. Good, solid motorcycle clothing is an investment in comfort and personal safety. So invest in its maintenance after your purchase and enjoy your gear for longer. We put the best tips and tricks on this maintenance page.
