At Bohn Body Armor, we believe that understanding CE ratings is crucial for every rider's safety. CE (Conformité Européenne) ratings are European standards that assess the safety and performance of motorcycle protective gear. While not mandatory in the U.S., these ratings provide valuable insights into the level of protection offered by various gear components.
What Are CE Ratings?
CE ratings are standardized tests developed by the European Union to evaluate the effectiveness of personal protective equipment (PPE) for motorcyclists. These tests measure how well gear can withstand impacts, abrasions, and other hazards encountered during riding. The ratings help riders make informed decisions about the protective qualities of their gear.
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CE Ratings for Motorcycle Armor
Motorcycle armor is typically rated under the EN 1621 series of standards:
- EN 1621-1: Covers limb protectors, including shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees.
- EN 1621-2: Pertains to back protectors.
- EN 1621-3: Relates to chest protectors.
Each standard has two levels of protection:
- Level 1: Provides a basic level of protection, allowing a higher amount of force to be transmitted through the protector.
- Level 2: Offers a higher level of protection by limiting the amount of force that passes through the armor.
For example, EN 1621-1 Level 1 armor allows a maximum transmitted force of 35 kN, while Level 2 limits it to 20 kN.
CE Ratings for Motorcycle Apparel
Motorcycle jackets, pants, and suits are rated under the EN 17092 standard, which classifies garments into different classes based on their protective performance:
- Class AAA: Highest level of protection, suitable for high-speed riding.
- Class AA: Offers a balance between protection and comfort, ideal for touring and urban riding.
- Class A: Provides basic protection, focusing on comfort and flexibility.
These classifications consider factors like abrasion resistance, seam strength, and impact protection.
CE Ratings for Motorcycle Boots
Motorcycle boots are evaluated under the EN 13634 standard, which assesses:
- Height: Short (Level 1) or tall (Level 2) boots.
- Abrasion Resistance: Ability to withstand sliding on pavement.
- Impact Cut Resistance: Protection against sharp objects.
- Transverse Rigidity: Resistance to crushing forces.
Each category is rated on a scale of 1 (basic) to 2 (advanced), with additional optional tests for features like water resistance (WR) and ankle protection (IPA/IPS).
CE Ratings for Motorcycle Gloves
Gloves are tested under the EN 13594 standard, which evaluates:
- Abrasion Resistance: Durability against sliding.
- Cut Resistance: Protection against sharp objects.
- Impact Protection: Especially for knuckles.
- Seam Strength: Durability of stitching.
Level 1 gloves offer basic protection, while Level 2 gloves provide enhanced protection, including mandatory knuckle armor.
Why CE Ratings Matter
Understanding CE ratings empowers riders to choose gear that meets their specific needs and riding styles. While CE certification isn't mandatory in the U.S., it serves as a reliable benchmark for assessing the protective qualities of motorcycle gear. At Bohn Body Armor, we prioritize your safety by ensuring our products meet or exceed these rigorous standards.
