When it comes to motorcycle safety, having the right gear can be the difference between a minor incident and a major accident. Motorcycle armour, specifically designed to protect riders from impacts during crashes, plays a pivotal role in ensuring safety on the road.
However, understanding the complex system of armour ratings can be a bit overwhelming. Let's demystify CE-certified motorcycle armour and its different levels for a clearer understanding.
What is CE-Rated Motorcycle Armour?
CE, short for Conformité Européene (European Conformity), signifies adherence to stringent European safety standards. While these standards are mandatory in Europe, they have been unofficially adopted globally, due to their strict criteria.
The CE rating indicates that the armour meets certain safety requirements, guaranteeing a higher level of protection compared to non-CE-rated gear. The level of CE certification denotes the armour’s ability to absorb impact forces during a crash.
Is CE-Rated Armour Mandatory?
CE-Rated Armour is mandatory in countries which are part of the European Union only. But because of the stringent norms of the EU, other countries around the world have informally adopted it.
In India, there is no government regulation to stipulate CE-Rating in motorcycle riding gear. Which is why some of the no-name jackets and pants can be found with un-rated armour. While the price might seem tempting, the risk of using such armour is prohibitive.
Which is why we suggest all motorcyclists to use CE-Rated Armour in their riding gear. Whether you choose Level 1 or Level 2 is a secondary consideration.
In the above image the armour shown is for the hip and knee, used on a pair of riding jeans.
The code for the armour is EN 1:2012-1621. Level 2. Type A and Type B. What does this code mean?
EN 1621 is the relevant code for ‘Personal Protection Equipment’ intended for motorcycle use.
2012 is the year in which this standard of protection was implemented.
The 1 means the armour is meant for parts of the body like, knee, hips, elbows, shoulders and chest. If the number was 2, then it would imply for back usage only.
Level 2 is the certification of the impact transfer that the armour has.
Type A & Type B is:
A:Reduced Coverage for specialised applications
B: Normal Coverage
And this is the breakdown of the code you will see embossed on every piece of CE-rated motorcycle armour.
Does Riding Gear also have a CE-Rating?
Yes, indeed. All riding gear sold in the European Union must have a CE-Rating, just like the armour being used inside it. The ratings are C, B, AA and AAA.
Since this is a requisite only for the EU, brands which sell in other countries, do not feel the need to get their riding gear certified.
Would this mean that other gear is not as good? Not necessary, because many brands choose not to get their gear certified in EU for financial reasons and not for safety and quality concerns.
As with other kinds of certification, the stamp gives you peace of mind. But not having the stamp on your riding gear is not the end.
Check if the riding gear you are planning to buy uses CE-Rated armour and CE-Rated abrasion resistant material like 600D Cordura fabric. If a brand is using genuine materials for the construction of their gear, chances are high that the end product will also be of global standards.
Evaluating CE-Rated Armour: Balancing Safety and Comfort
While CE-rated armour offers top-notch safety, it might feel stiff and uncomfortable due to its high safety standards. Finding a balance between safety and comfort is essential. Opting for CE-certified armour that is both comfortable and protective is a wise choice.
Considerations
CE-rated armour stands as a pinnacle of safety in motorcycle gear, adopted worldwide for its stringent safety standards. When selecting armour, consider its practicality, ensuring it keeps you safe while remaining comfortable during long rides. Compatibility between armour and gear is vital, so it's advisable to purchase both from the same source to ensure a proper fit.
Ultimately, understanding CE certification levels empowers riders to make informed decisions regarding their protective gear, keeping safety at the forefront of their riding experiences.
ViaTerra uses CE-rated armour in all its riding gear to ensure that the jackets and pants you use is world class.
User Review:
Sahil from Delhi shares his experience of the ViaTerra Austin: “I wanted to buy riding jeans for some time. But most brands do not have CE-armour in their jeans. ViaTerra uses this armour in their Austin jeans and that was reason enough for me to try it out. I have been using this riding denims for a few months and like the fact that the armour is not visible from the outside and it looks like ‘normal’ jeans.”
FAQs:
What does CE stand for in the context of motorcycle gear, and why is it essential?
CE stands for Conformité Européene, indicating adherence to stringent European safety standards. While mandatory in the European Union, its global adoption ensures motorcycle gear, especially armour, meets high safety criteria.
Is CE-rated armour mandatory outside the European Union, like in India?
CE-rated armour is not mandatory in countries outside the European Union. However, due to its strict safety standards, it is recommended for motorcyclists globally. In India, there is no government regulation for CE-rating, but using CE-rated armour is advised for enhanced safety.
What are the two levels of CE-rated armour, and how do they differ?
CE-rated armour comes in two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 armour has a higher transmitted force threshold (18 kN) compared to Level 2 (9 kN). Level 2 armour offers superior protection, making it bulkier and suitable for high-speed or track riding.
Do riding gear, like jackets and pants, also have CE ratings?
Yes, riding gear sold in the European Union must have a CE rating, including jackets and pants. The ratings include C, B, AA, and AAA. However, brands selling in other countries might not prioritize obtaining EU certification, but genuine materials ensure global standards.
