When it comes to riding, looking cool is great—but staying safe is essential. One question comes in mind: “Is Your Motorcycle Jacket Really Safe or just stylish?” That’s where CE certification comes in. It’s not just a label; it’s a lifesaver. In this guide, we’ll break down what CE means, how to identify certified gear, and how you can ride with confidence knowing your jacket has your back—literally.
What Is CE Certification?
CE stands for Conformité Européenne, meaning the product meets European Safety Standards. For motorcycle gear, CE certification ensures the apparel has undergone rigorous testing for impact protection, abrasion resistance, and durability.
CE certified gear is classified as PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and must meet standards like:
- EN 1621-1: For impact protectors (elbows, shoulders, knees)
- EN 13595: For professional rider apparel
- EN 17092: For general motorbike gear safety
Level 1 vs Level 2 CE: What You Need to Know
CE armor comes in two levels:
- Level 1: Absorbs less impact, but is lighter and more flexible—great for urban riding
- Level 2: Offers superior impact protection and is best for highway speeds or racing
Expert Opinion: According to seasoned road racer Mike Trent, “If you value safety, always go for CE Level 2 armor, especially for back and chest protection.”
Explore this CE Level 2 certified jacket from Leather Jackets NYC—it’s lightweight, breathable, and road-ready.
How to Check If Your Jacket Is Truly CE Certified
Don’t just trust the label—verify it. Here’s how:
- Look for the CE mark inside the jacket
- Check the standard code (e.g., EN 1621-1)
- Confirm it matches Level 1 or Level 2 protection
- Review product details on trusted stores like Leather Jackets NYC
Tip: Jackets like the VR46 Tavullia Leather Suit not only meet CE certification but offer aerodynamic racing-grade safety.
Real-World Crash Protection: CE Armor in Action
Let’s break it down:
| Feature | CE Level 1 | CE Level 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Absorption | Basic (16-20kN force) | Advanced (<9kN force) |
| Flexibility | High | Moderate |
| Best For | City riding | Racing, highway cruising |
If you’re hitting the track, consider a dual-piece like the Avro D-Air 2pc Suit for enhanced safety.
CE vs Style-Only Jackets: The Hidden Danger
Not all jackets are protective—even if they look rugged. Jackets without CE-rated armor might:
- Offer zero impact protection
- Tear easily in a slide
- Lack abrasion-resistant materials
Compare that to a jacket like the Honda HRC Leather Jacket, which is tested to withstand crashes.
Why EN Standards Matter
The EN rating indicates the type of test the gear passed:
- EN 1621-1: Armor (limbs)
- EN 1621-2: Back protectors
- EN 13595: Professional protection standard
- EN 17092: General motorbike gear
Personal Experience: After switching to CE Level 2 rated D3O armor, I felt significantly more secure—even on longer rides.
Top Picks for CE Certified Gear at Leather Jackets NYC
Looking to upgrade? Here are some top-rated options:
- Madrid Leather Suit – A track-day favorite with full body protection
- Harley Denim + Leather Combo – Urban style meets safety
- KTM MotoGP Racing Jacket – Professional-grade with sleek branding
- Full Collection of Motorbike Suits
Conclusion: Is Your Jacket Safe?
In short, if your motorcycle jacket doesn’t have CE certification, it might not offer the protection you think it does. Make sure your gear meets the right motorcycle jacket safety standards and provides adequate impact protection.
At Leather Jackets NYC, you’ll find jackets that combine style with function, backed by CE approved motorcycle gear and reliable European standards.
FAQs (AEO Format)
Q1: How do I know if my motorcycle jacket is actually CE certified or just labeled that way?
A: Check for the CE label, standard codes (e.g., EN 1621-1), and certification level inside the jacket.
Q2: Is CE Level 1 good enough for city riding or do I need Level 2?
A: CE Level 1 is fine for city use, but Level 2 offers better protection for highway or aggressive riding.
Q3: Can a non-CE jacket still protect me in a crash?
A: It might offer some protection, but not to the tested and verified standards of CE certified jackets.
Q4: What does CE Level 1 vs Level 2 actually mean in real-life crashes?
A: Level 2 absorbs more impact, reducing the chance of injury significantly.
Q5: Does CE certification cover abrasion resistance or just impact?
A: It covers both. Look for jackets rated under EN 17092 for full protection.
Q6: Why are there so many EN numbers? Which CE standard matters most?
A: Each number represents a specific test. EN 17092 and EN 1621-1 are most common for jackets.
Q7: What’s the best budget CE Level 2 motorcycle jacket right now?
A: The Metonga Switchback Lite offers great value and protection.
