Understanding Motorcycle Armor Ratings
At Motohut, we emphasize the importance of understanding the rating system used to measure the effectiveness of motorcycle armor in absorbing and withstanding impacts.
The “EN” in armor ratings stands for “European Norm,” while “CE” stands for “Conformité Européene” or “European Conformity.” These terms relate to European motorcycle safety standards. While America has adopted these standards informally, they are not legally required for street use. In Europe, however, protective gear meeting these standards is mandatory for riding. Since April 2018, all motorcycle garments sold as protective apparel in Europe are classified as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and must be tested to comply with stringent regulations.
Motorcycle clothing falls under the category of PPE, governed by specific rules based on use and classification. The EN 17092 standard, now a harmonized European standard, regulates PPE for leisure motorcycle use, covering various riding styles such as sport, adventure, and urban riding.
The EN 17092 standard ensures that motorcycle clothing sold as protective gear meets safety requirements. This is crucial as clothing that appears sturdy might not provide adequate protection during a crash. EN 17092 encompasses a range of tests, including:
- Impact Abrasion Resistance: Assesses if the fabric can withstand an impact abrasion slide without forming a hole larger than 5 mm.
- Tear Strength: Measures the force required to further tear a pre-slit specimen.
- Seam Strength: Evaluates the force needed to rip seams at vital connection points.
- Dimensional Stability: Ensures the garment doesn't shrink excessively after washing.
- Innocuousness: Ensures chemicals used in the garment are safe for the wearer and the environment.
In North America, CE- or EN-rated apparel is typically only required on racetracks, where standards vary. For street use, helmet requirements differ by state, with most requiring a DOT-approved helmet, while some tracks also accept ECE-rated helmets.
CE Testing, Certification, and Approval
- CE Tested: Indicates in-house testing by the manufacturer, not necessarily meeting official standards.
- CE Certified: Means garment samples were tested in certified facilities.
- CE Approved: Signifies multiple parts of the garment were tested and meet required standards.
EN 17092 Tests
- Impact Abrasion Resistance: Assesses fabric durability during an impact slide.
- Tear Strength: Measures force required to further tear a pre-slit specimen.
- Seam Strength: Evaluates seam durability at vital points.
- Dimensional Stability: Checks for shrinkage after regulated washing.
- Innocuousness: Ensures safe chemical levels in the garment.
Additional Standards
- EN 13634: Boots
- EN 13594: Gloves
- EN 1621-1, EN 1621-2, EN 1621-3: Limb, back, and chest protectors
- EN 14021: Stone shield protectors for motocross
CE Labeling Requirements
CE-certified motorcycle apparel made after 2018 includes a “Class” section in the label, indicating the protection level:
- Class AAA: Maximum protection, heavier and less comfortable.
- Class AA: High protection, suitable for a wide range of riding.
- Class A: Good protection, lighter and more comfortable.
- Class B: Abrasion resistance without impact protectors.
- Class C: Impact protection without abrasion resistance.
Risk Category Zones
- Zone 1: High risk (impact, abrasion, tearing) - requires impact protectors.
- Zone 2: Moderate risk - requires impact protectors.
- Zone 3: Low risk - must withstand 1.8 to 5 seconds of abrasion.
- Zone 4: For ventilation/stretch panels - minimal abrasion resistance required.
Understanding these standards helps ensure you choose the right protective gear for your riding style, balancing safety, comfort, and functionality.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to shoot us a message hello@motohut.ca