Motorcycle riding is an exhilarating experience, but it comes with inherent risks. Among the essential factors ensuring rider safety, abrasion resistance stands out as a key feature of quality motorcycle gear. This critical property helps protect riders from severe injuries during accidents, particularly in situations where sliding on asphalt can cause significant friction.
What Is Abrasion Resistance?
Abrasion resistance is a material's ability to withstand wear, rubbing, and friction without deteriorating. In the context of motorcycle gear, it refers to the protective clothing's capacity to endure the harsh contact with road surfaces during a slide, minimizing damage and reducing the likelihood of road rash and other skin injuries.
Why Abrasion Resistance Matters in Motorcycle Gear
In a crash scenario, a rider may slide across the road at significant speeds. Without abrasion-resistant gear, the friction generated between the body and the road can quickly tear through clothing, leaving skin vulnerable to severe injuries.
Key areas of motorcycle gear that benefit from abrasion resistance include:
- Impact zones: Elbows, shoulders, knees, and hips, which are most likely to contact the ground.
- High-friction areas: Palms and wrists in gloves, since hands often instinctively brace for impact.
- Sliding areas: The seat and lower back, which may drag during prolonged slides.
Materials Offering Abrasion Resistance in Motorcycle Gear
Modern motorcycle gear incorporates advanced materials to achieve high levels of abrasion resistance:
- SuperFabric®: An innovative composite material featuring tiny guard plates integrated into fabric, offering exceptional protection without sacrificing flexibility. Often used in gloves and key impact zones of jackets and trousers.
- Aramid Fibres (e.g., Kevlar®): Known for their heat resistance and strength, these synthetic fibres are commonly found in motorcycle jeans and protective panels.
- Leather: Full-grain leather, particularly cowhide and kangaroo leather, is a classic choice for its natural abrasion resistance, making it a staple in racing suits and gloves.
- Cordura®: A durable nylon fabric prized for its lightweight strength, often used in touring and adventure gear.
- Dyneema®: A high-strength fibre offering excellent abrasion resistance with the added benefit of being lightweight and flexible, making it ideal for protective jeans.
CE Testing and Standards for Abrasion Resistance
Motorcycle gear sold in the UK and EU must meet CE (Conformité Européenne) standards, which include rigorous abrasion resistance tests. These tests categorise gear into three protection levels:
- Level A: Basic abrasion protection, suitable for urban riding.
- Level AA: Enhanced protection for touring and moderate-speed use.
- Level AAA: The highest level, designed for track use and extreme conditions.
Key testing methods include:
- Cambridge Abrasion Test: Simulates road surface contact to measure how long a material resists wear.
- Darmstadt Test: Mimics crash scenarios under realistic speeds and conditions.
Benefits of High Abrasion Resistance in Motorcycle Gear
Investing in gear with superior abrasion resistance offers numerous advantages:
- Enhanced Safety: Reduces the risk of road rash and other injuries.
- Durability: Withstands regular wear and tear, extending the lifespan of the gear.
- Confidence: Riders can feel secure knowing they’re equipped with protective clothing designed to perform under extreme conditions.
Choosing the Right Gear
When selecting motorcycle gear, consider the type of riding you do and the level of protection required. For urban commuting, Level A gear may suffice, but for touring, adventure, or track use, Level AA or AAA-rated gear is highly recommended.
At Moto Central, we understand the importance of abrasion resistance in rider safety. Our collection features top-quality brands incorporating advanced materials like SuperFabric, Kevlar, and Cordura, ensuring you stay protected without compromising comfort or style. From jackets and trousers to gloves and racing suits, we have options to suit every rider's needs.
Explore abrasion-resistant motorcycle gear at Moto Central. Enjoy free UK delivery on orders over £25 and a 365-day return policy for complete satisfaction.
