CE Ratings in Motorcycle Gear - What Do They Mean?

Dress for the crash, not for the ride." This time-honoured proverb serves as a reminder to motorcyclists that safety should always be a priority. But how can you be sure that the jacket or trousers you’re putting on have been thoroughly tested for crash protection? Enter CE ratings an essential aspect of motorcycle gear that every rider should understand.

Understanding CE Ratings

CE ratings are standards set by the European Union to test and approve motorcycle gear for sale within the European Economic Area (EEA). These ratings indicate that a product has met specific safety criteria, ensuring it provides adequate protection in the event of an accident. However, navigating the world of CE ratings can be convoluted, filled with acronyms and technical jargon. In this post, we’ll break down what these ratings mean and why they matter.

The Importance of CE Ratings

When it comes to motorcycle gear, not all products are created equal. The primary purpose of CE ratings is to provide consumers with a reliable way to assess the safety and effectiveness of their gear. A product bearing a CE mark signifies that it has undergone rigorous testing and meets established safety standards.

In essence, wearing gear with appropriate CE ratings can significantly reduce your risk of injury during a crash. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about being protected when it matters most.

Categories of Motorcycle Gear

CE ratings apply to various types of motorcycle gear, including jackets, trousers, gloves, and boots. Each category has its own set of standards and testing procedures:

1. Protective Clothing (EN 17092)

The EN 17092 standard governs protective clothing for motorcyclists. This standard categorises garments into four classes based on their level of protection:

• Class AA: Offers basic protection suitable for low-speed riding.
• Class A: Provides moderate protection suitable for urban riding.
• Class B: Designed for higher speeds and more demanding conditions.
• Class C: Offers maximum protection for high-speed riding scenarios.

When purchasing jackets or trousers, look for these classifications to ensure you’re getting the level of protection you need based on your riding style.

2. Impact Protectors (EN 1621)

Impact protectors are crucial components in motorcycle gear designed to absorb energy during an impact. The EN 1621 standard specifies two levels:

• Level 1: Protectors must withstand an impact force below a certain threshold.
• Level 2: Provides higher levels of impact absorption.

You’ll often find these protectors in areas like shoulders, elbows, knees, and back panels in jackets and trousers. Always check if your gear includes certified impact protectors—this could make all the difference in an accident.

3. Gloves (EN 13594)

Motorcycle gloves also have specific standards under EN 13594. Similar to protective clothing, gloves are rated based on their ability to withstand abrasion and impact forces:

• Level 1: Basic level suitable for everyday use.
• Level 2: Enhanced protection offering better resistance against impacts.

Quality gloves will feature reinforced areas at critical points such as knuckles and palms—look out for these features when shopping around.

4. Footwear (EN 13634)

Motorcycle boots are another vital piece of protective equipment governed by EN 13634 standards. These boots must provide adequate ankle support while also being resistant to abrasion and impacts:

• Class I: General-purpose footwear suitable for commuting.
• Class II: Designed specifically for racing or high-performance riding conditions.

Investing in quality motorcycle boots is essential; they not only protect your feet but also contribute significantly to overall stability while riding.

How To Choose Gear With Appropriate CE Ratings

Now that you understand what CE ratings mean let’s discuss how to choose the right gear:

1. Research Brands: Look into reputable brands known for producing high-quality protective gear with proper certifications.

2. Check Labels Carefully: Always read labels carefully before making a purchase; ensure they display appropriate CE markings indicating compliance with relevant standards.

3. Consider Your Riding Style: Choose gear based on your typical riding conditions urban commuting may require different levels of protection compared to long-distance touring or racing.

4. Test Fit & Comfort: While safety is paramount, comfort shouldn’t be overlooked either; make sure your chosen gear fits well without restricting movement.

CE ratings in motorcycle gear play a crucial role in ensuring rider safety on the road. By understanding what these ratings mean and how they apply across different categories—you can make informed decisions about your protective equipment.

Remember that dressing appropriately means prioritising safety over aesthetics; after all, it’s better to invest in quality protective gear than face potential injuries from subpar equipment during an unfortunate incident on the road.

So next time you’re gearing up for a ride, take a moment to check those labels your future self will thank you!

Race Leathers Motorcycle Gear

Check out our full range of products, such as motorcycle clothing, motorcycle boots, motorcycle helmets, motorcycle gloves, motorcycle suits, motorcycle jackets and motorcycle trousers, which are available online or by visiting our Darwen store today. If you have any questions regarding any of our ranges, please call our customer service team at Race Leathers Motorcycle Gear store on 01254 704 000, and we will be more than happy to help.