Are Motorcycle Gear Companies Sacrificing Safety for Profit?
Motorcycle enthusiasts often invest heavily in gear like jackets, gloves, and riding jeans, driven by the belief that these items are essential for their safety. However, recent research from Australia raises significant concerns about the protection levels of some of these products. The Australian Motorcycle Clothing Assessment Program (MotoCAP) has conducted tests on approximately 1,100 motorcycle apparel items since 2018, aiming to provide an independent rating on safety beyond basic certification standards, like the European EN 17092.
A Disturbing Trend in Protection Levels
According to MotoCAP's chief scientist, Associate Professor Chris Hurren, there's been a noticeable decline in the protective features of jackets and pants certified under EN 17092. Surprisingly, some products, such as single-layer motorcycle jeans, are performing similarly to standard denim in abrasion resistance tests. For example, a jacket that previously lasted 3.7 seconds in MotoCAP's tests was reduced to just 1.2 seconds in a later iteration, while the price remained unchanged.
The Importance of Understanding Certification
Consumers should beware that just because gear meets certification standards, it doesn't guarantee high performance. The difference between clearing a threshold and actually excelling is crucial for riders to understand. MotoCAP highlights that urban asphalt is significantly less aggressive than the chip-seal surfaces found in many areas, which means the risk factors can vary widely depending on the riding context. They recommend at least a two-star rating for urban riding and three stars for rural roads.
Shifts Toward Safety-Focused Manufacturing
Despite these unsettling findings, there’s a silver lining. Some manufacturers have responded positively to MotoCAP's insights and have made improvements to their gear. Additionally, small brands without significant marketing budgets can leverage MotoCAP’s ratings to establish credibility and appeal to safety-conscious consumers. The growing audience for MotoCAP’s testing indicates that more riders are scrutinizing the actual safety performance of their gear rather than relying solely on branded labels.
The Takeaway for Riders
As riders, the key takeaway is clear: while certifications provide a basic standard, they may not represent the whole picture. Evaluating gear based on independent testing can better inform your purchasing decisions. It’s essential to invest in gear that truly offers protection, ensuring your safety on the road.
Write A Comment