Motorcycle CE Armour Markings Explained

When it comes to motorcycle gear, the importance of protective armour cannot be overstated. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the world of motorcycling, understanding the significance of CE armour markings is crucial for your safety. In this blog post, we'll delve into what these markings mean, how they are tested, and why they matter when it comes to protecting you in the event of an accident.

What Are CE Armour Markings?

CE stands for Conformité Européenne, which translates to European Conformity. The CE marking indicates that a product meets specific safety standards set by the European Union. In the context of motorcycle gear, this means that the armour within your riding kit has been tested and certified to provide a certain level of protection against impacts.

Motorcycle gear can feature various types of CE armour, each designed for different parts of the body. The most common areas that require protection include shoulders, elbows, back, hips, and knees. The effectiveness of this armour is categorised into different levels based on its ability to absorb impact energy.

Understanding Impact Protection Levels

CE armour is classified into two main categories: Level 1 and Level 2. Each level has specific requirements regarding impact resistance and energy absorption.

Level 1 Armour

Level 1 armour is designed for lighter impacts. It must withstand an impact force of no more than 20 kN (kilonewtons) when tested under controlled conditions. While it offers decent protection for everyday riding scenarios, it may not be sufficient for high-speed crashes or more severe accidents.

Level 2 Armour

Level 2 armour provides enhanced protection and must withstand an impact force of no more than 12 kN. This makes it more suitable for aggressive riders or those who frequently ride in challenging conditions where the risk of accidents is higher.

How Is Motorcycle Armour Tested?

The testing process for motorcycle CE armour is rigorous and conducted in controlled laboratory environments using specialised equipment designed to replicate real-world impacts.

The Testing Setup

To evaluate how effective a piece of armour is at protecting against impacts, it’s placed over an anvil at the base of a testing device. A striker—often made from heavy materials—is then dropped from a predetermined height onto the armour. This simulates the kind of forces that could occur during a crash.

Measuring Energy Transfer

During testing, measurements are taken at the anvil to determine how much energy from the impact transfers through the armour to what would be your body in a real-world scenario. The goal is to ensure that as little energy as possible reaches beneath the protective layer; this helps prevent injury during accidents.

What To Look For When Choosing Motorcycle Gear

When selecting motorcycle gear with protective armour, there are several factors you should consider:

Check for CE Markings

Always look for visible CE markings on your gear. This indicates that it has been tested and meets safety standards set by regulatory bodies. Remember that not all motorcycle gear includes proper protective features; some may only look like they do!

Assess Comfort and Fit

While protection is paramount, comfort should not be overlooked. Ill-fitting gear can hinder your movement and distract you while riding—potentially leading to accidents in itself! Ensure that any protective gear fits snugly but allows freedom of movement.

Consider Your Riding Style

Your choice in protective gear should also reflect your riding style and environment. If you frequently ride on highways or engage in off-road activities where falls are more likely, opting for higher-level protection (like Level 2) may be wise.

Invest in Quality Protection

In summary, understanding Motorcycle CE armour markings is essential when choosing your motorcycle gear. These markings signify compliance with rigorous safety standards designed to protect you during rides especially if things go wrong on the road.

By familiarising yourself with how this protective equipment is tested and what levels exist within its classifications, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions about your safety while riding. Remember: investing in quality protective gear could make all the difference should you ever find yourself needing it!

So next time you're shopping for motorcycle apparel or accessories, take note—if it feels like armour but lacks proper certification or testing behind it… then it's time to reconsider! Your safety deserves nothing less than effective impact protection tailored specifically for motorcyclists like you.

Race Leathers Motorcycle Gear

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