Motorcycle safety is more than just wearing a helmet; body armour plays a crucial role in rider protection. One of the most widely used safety standards is CE Level 1 certification, ensuring that protective gear meets essential impact protection requirements. But what does CE Level 1 mean for motorcycle riders, and why do leading brands incorporate it into their gear?
At Moto Central, we stock a wide range of CE Level 1-certified motorcycle jackets, trousers, gloves, and body armour from top brands. This guide explores why CE Level 1 remains a popular choice, its benefits and drawbacks, and which manufacturers rely on it for their products.
What is CE Level 1 Certification?
CE Level 1 certification is a European safety standard that applies to motorcycle protective armour, ensuring it meets strict impact absorption requirements. Protective armour that achieves EN 1621-1 (for limb protectors) or EN 1621-2 (for back protectors) must limit impact force transmission to a maximum of 35kN.
CE Level 1 is the entry-level certification for impact protection, offering a blend of safety, comfort, and flexibility, making it a common choice in everyday motorcycle gear.
Which Motorcycle Brands Use CE Level 1 Armour?
Many premium motorcycle brands incorporate CE Level 1 protectors into their jackets, trousers, gloves, and dedicated body armour. Here are some of the top manufacturers offering CE Level 1 gear:
- Alpinestars: Uses CE Level 1 protectors in many of its textile and leather jackets, trousers, and gloves.
- Dainese: Incorporates CE Level 1 in urban and adventure gear, ensuring lightweight, breathable protection.
- Rukka: Features CE Level 1 protectors in its premium touring and adventure gear, prioritising comfort and flexibility.
- Held: Includes CE Level 1 protection in textile jackets and gloves, offering excellent safety with flexibility.
- RST: Provides affordable and high-performance riding gear with CE Level 1-certified armour.
Why Do Motorcycle Brands Use CE Level 1?
CE Level 1 is a popular choice among motorcycle gear manufacturers due to its balance of protection and flexibility. Here’s why leading brands opt for CE Level 1 armour:
- Comfort & Flexibility: Lighter and less restrictive than CE Level 2, allowing for better mobility.
- Breathability: Offers better airflow, preventing excessive heat build-up.
- Everyday Wearability: Ideal for commuting and urban riding, offering impact protection without bulk.
- Versatility: Commonly found in jackets, trousers, gloves, and knee/elbow guards.
- Cost-Effective: More affordable than CE Level 2, making high-quality protection accessible.
CE Level 1 vs. CE Level 2 – What’s the Difference?
While CE Level 1 provides adequate protection, some riders prefer CE Level 2 for higher-impact resistance. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | CE Level 1 | CE Level 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Resistance | Max 35kN force transmission | Max 20kN force transmission |
| Flexibility | More flexible and lightweight | Thicker and less flexible |
| Breathability | Better airflow, reducing heat buildup | Denser materials, less ventilation |
| Best For | Commuting, touring, urban riding | Racing, high-speed riding, adventure touring |
Alternatives to CE Level 1 in Motorcycle Gear
While CE Level 1 is widely used, some brands utilise alternative impact protection technologies that offer similar levels of safety and comfort:
- D3O® Armour: A soft, flexible material that hardens on impact, widely used in motorcycle jackets and gloves. Found in RST, Furygan, and Klim gear.
- SAS-TEC Armour: A viscoelastic foam protector that absorbs impact energy. Used by Held and some Rukka products.
- SuperFabric®: Found in gloves and textile gear, offering abrasion resistance and additional impact protection.
- Rukka D3O Air Armour: A modified version of D3O, designed for breathability and impact absorption, commonly used in Rukka's touring gear.
Find CE Level 1 Gear at Moto Central
At Moto Central, we stock a wide range of CE Level 1-certified motorcycle gear, including jackets, trousers, gloves, and impact protectors from the best brands in the industry.
Explore CE Level 1 motorcycle protection at Moto Central and enjoy free UK delivery on orders over £25 and a 365-day return policy for complete satisfaction.
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