As a passionate motorcyclist, you know how important it is to be optimally protected on every ride. Besides style and comfort, the safety of your motorcycle clothing plays a crucial role. But how can you tell if your gear truly lives up to its promises? The answer lies in CE certification – a quality standard that shows you just how safe your motorcycle clothing actually is.
What exactly does CE certification mean?
CE stands for "Conformité Européenne" and means that a product meets the safety requirements of the European Union. Since 2018, this has also been mandatory for motorcycle clothing. This gives you, as a rider, clear guidance when it comes to buying safe protective gear.
Overview of current standards
The currently applicable standard for motorcycle clothing is EN 17092:2020 , which is divided into five protection classes:
- Class AAA (EN 17092-2) : The highest protection standard for racetracks and demanding driving conditions. Offers maximum protection against abrasion, but may restrict mobility.
- Class AA (EN 17092-3) : Ideal for sporty and fast driving on public roads. Combines high protection with good maneuverability.
- Class A (EN 17092-4) : Perfect for everyday use and short trips, offering solid protection with maximum comfort.
- Class B (EN 17092-5) : Clothing without integrated protectors, where the wearing of additional protective clothing is recommended.
- Class C (EN 17092-6) : Focused on impact protection through protectors, ideal in combination with other protective clothing.
Other relevant CE standards for your equipment
In addition to the basic standard, there are other important standards that concern specific protective elements:
- EN 13634:2017 – Motorcycle boots
- EN 13594:2015 – Motorcycle gloves
- EN 1621-1:2012 – Joint protectors (shoulder, elbow, knee, hip)
- EN 1621-2:2014 – Back protectors
- EN 1621-3:2018 – Chest protectors
- EN 1621-4:2013 – Inflatable protectors and airbags
- ECE 22.05 – Helmets
Testing procedure: How is your clothing tested?
To obtain CE certification, motorcycle clothing undergoes intensive testing:
- Darmstadt method (abrasion test) : Realistically simulates the sliding process on asphalt, tests the abrasion resistance of the materials.
- Tear resistance : Ensures that damaged clothing does not tear further, thus providing additional protection.
- Seam strength : Tests the robustness of the seams to ensure protective effect in the event of a fall.
These testing procedures guarantee that your clothing will withstand an emergency and provide optimal protection.
Why cheap motorcycle clothing doesn't offer optimal protection despite CE certification
Even though inexpensive motorcycle clothing often carries a CE certification, this doesn't necessarily mean it offers the same level of protection as high-quality brand-name products. While cheap clothing often meets the minimum requirements of CE testing, it usually uses less robust materials, simpler manufacturing techniques, and less durable protectors. As a result, the protective effect in a crash is significantly lower, and the clothing doesn't withstand stress for as long. High-quality motorcycle clothing, on the other hand, invests in durable materials, careful workmanship, and reliable protectors that can be crucial in an emergency.
What should you pay attention to when buying?
When buying your motorcycle clothing, look for the CE label and the exact protection class. Also check that all protectors are present and properly certified. High-quality brands, like those you'll find at Bad and Bold, offer the best guidance here.
Conclusion: Safety meets style
Your safety on your bike is priceless. That's why you should invest in high-quality, CE-certified motorcycle clothing that not only provides reliable protection but also makes you look stylish. At Bad and Bold, you'll find select, certified brand-name products that offer exactly that: safety, comfort, and distinctive style – so you can enjoy every ride with complete peace of mind.
