Tag Archives: Boots

Touratech launches 3-in-1 boot

German adventure motorcycle accessories company Touratech has launched a boot it claims is a three-in-one to cover touring, sports and adventure riding.

Touratech Australia does not yet have a date for the arrival of the Touratech Destino Ultimate GTX boots and are currently only gauging interest.

But wait for it — if or when they do arrive, they will set you back almost the price of three boots at $A1492 in sizes 39-47.

For that price they better one good.

Touratech says they have the all-day “comfort of a touring boot, the safety of a sports boot and the robustness of an MX boot”.

So let’s check the claims on these boots, developed for Touratech by Dutch motorcycle clothing company REV’IT!

Comfort

The comfort is provided by a flexible joint system, a SEESOFT protector insert in the tongue and an Apex sole, developed with Vibram.

They claim the sole makes them easier to walk in so you don’t clump around like you are wearing skit boots without the skis.

Touratech also claim the sole has different zones; one for operating the brake lever; another for strength and others for walking comfort. 

The insole is made of washable, open-pored PU foam.

Safety

The Destino boot features a lot of protection as you would expect from an adventure-style boot with what they call a Dynamic Support Frame (DSF).

It is made up of a calf shield, heel cup and a stability frame to prevent twisting with extra impact protection in the toe area.

Destino boots are certified for safety with the highest EC approval level: EN 13634:2017 Level 2.

Fit

Another feature is the BOA Fit closure system which uses a now-popular hand-operated ratchet dial that pulls wire laces for the optimum fit and release at the touch of the centre button.

Best Full Face Helmets

There are no show laces to tie and no bulky and uncomfortable clasps that feature on many off-road boots.

Having the boot tight not only ensures a correct and safe fit, but also prevents mud and dust getting in.

Waterproof

These boots are made of a combination of materials such as SuperFabric, microfibre lining, Omega leather, supple nubuck leather and a Gore-Tex membrane that they claim guarantees “absolute waterproofness with simultaneous breathability”.

Excuse my cynicism here, but I have yet to find any breathable clothing that is also 100% waterproof.

However, there are varying degrees of water resistance indicated by an Ingress Protection (IP) rating.

This rating consists of two numbers. The first from 0-6 measures protection from foreign bodies such as dust, while the second from 0-9K measures resistance to water. Click here for more details.

I can’t find any reference to an IP on their website. It just says “Waterproof Yes”.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

How long does waterproof gear last?

Have you ever found out the hard way that waterproof gear has a use-by date after which it is totally useless?

Two pairs of boots, two pairs of gloves, a jacket and several pair of pants have failed me after as little as five years of periodic use.

This is despite the fact that I look after my gear and store it in a cool, dry cupboard.

Waterproof warranty

I’ve checked all my waterproof gear and none offers a lifetime guarantee.

Also, note that “weatherproof”, “water-resistant” and “water-repellent” are not the same as “waterproof”. These terms mean the garment is rarely watertight even in light showers when you are riding.

And check whether it says the gear is 100% watertight. Some may also include an Ingress Protection (IP) rating.

This rating consists of two numbers. The first from 0-6 measures protection from foreign bodies such as dust, while the second from 0-9K measures resistance to water. Click here for more details.

Also note that your supposedly waterproof gear may only be guaranteed to be impervious to water in some areas or just have watertight pockets.

Waterproof warranties are typically the same as the garment which is usually from one year to about three years.

Manufacturers could fit jackets and pants with more robust and heavier waterproof membranes and offer longer warranties.

However, that would impact on comfort, weight and price.

So it’s important to look after your waterproof gear.

Failures

Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide Limited Road Glide Boom Box rain wet infotainment audio techno
Caught in the rain

One of the main problems with waterproof failures is that you may not notice a fault in your gear when you put it on.

You only find out when you go for a ride and get caught in the rain.

And even the most minor fault, crack or split can suck in moisture when you are riding at highway speeds!

There can be a number of reasons for waterproofing failures:

  • Waterproof leather gear is usually the first to give in because it can age and crack;
  • Boots can develop minuscule cracks in the soles from simply walking around in them;
  • Racing boots with bolt-in toe sliders can become loose as they repeatedly hit the ground, allowing in water;
  • Waterproof pants can develop small tears in the lining or you can dislodge the glued-on taped seams if you pull them on while wearing your boots;
    Waterproof pants
    Waterproof pants lose their taped seams and lining from years of use
  • Folding waterproof garments can cause them to wear and split at the creases;
  • Carrying waterproof gear on your bike scrunched up on a rack and secured by Occy straps can cause rips and wear;
  • Gore-Tex pants and jackets should last a long time, but the outside layer can get worn from rubbing in areas such as the armpits, crutch and backside;
  • Zippers can become rusted from rain and road grime and even waterproof zippers can become gummed up by dust and bugs; and
  • Machine washing your gear can remove or destroy the watertight capabilities of some materials.

Waterproof care

King Canute found he could not hold back the tide and maintaining waterproof riding gear can be similar.

However there are some things you can do:

  • Boots will last longer if you only wear them on the bike and do limited walking.
  • Regular treatment of leather with shoe polish, special softeners and waxes such as Dubbin may help prolong their waterproof life;
  • Take your boots off before pulling on waterproof overpants;
  • Re-spray your textile gear with waterproof sprays;Nikwax Gloveproof waterproofs gloves
  • Store your gear in a cool, dry cupboard;
  • Hang your jackets and pants and never fold them;
  • Always allow wet gear to dry in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight before storing;
  • Carry waterproof gear in a safe place in your backpack or bike luggage, preferably rolled up, not folded;
  • Give zippers an occasional spray with silicon or rub them with an appropriate wax to help the zipper slide smoothly and last longer; and
  • Leather gear requires special attention. Click here for our comprehensive tips on how to look after your leather gear.

WashingWater crossings

Riding in the rain or even doing water crossings not only get your gear wet, but also dirty.

So you should periodically wash your gear before storing it away.

When washing your gear, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. They usually stipulate a hand wash or gentle, warm-wash machine cycle.

Long, hot machine washing cycles can limit the waterproofed life of a garment.

Never use fabric softener when washing and most manufacturers warn against tumble drying or ironing.

However, note that some materials, such as Gore-Tex, actually require tumble drying or ironing after washing to restore their waterproof qualities. Watch this instructional video.

User error

Sometimes it’s not the gear that fails, but the rider, says  Link International product manager Ron Grant.

“The majority of wet claims I believe are mainly due to incorrect usage or fitment,” he says.

“You can have the best jacket in the world, but if you don’t get all the closures correctly positioned, ensure your shirt collar or cuffs aren’t exposed (which creates a wicking point for water entry) you will still get wet.

“If you wear gloves over your cuff, water penetrates through the jacket stitching in the chest and arms, runs down between the outer shell and the outside of the waterproof liner (so the rider is still dry) and drains straight into the gloves. This is not a glove issue but a rider fitment issue.

“Likewise with waterproof boots. I see riders buy ‘shorty’ waterproof boots and then complain they get wet feet.

“If you have a look at their rain pants when their feet are on the pegs, the rain pants may ride up just enough to allow water into the boots.”

Ron Grant tests waterproof gear
Ron Grant tests waterproof gear

Ron warns that water will finds its way into that 1% vulnerable area in your whole riding ensemble and spoil your ride.

He says he left for work recently in the pouring rain on his Triumph Tiger 800 fitted with a new, large touring screen to protect him from the elements.

“This new screen creates a bit of a vacuum between the screen and I could see water droplets swirling around in front of me around my throat area,” he says.

“I didn’t really think about this too well, but I had pulled my neck-sock on before fitting my jacket as it’s more comfortable that way.

“The droplets eventually soaked my neck-sock which wicked the water downwards wetting my jumper and shirt. My waterproof jacket didn’t fail, it was the dummy wearing it that failed!”

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Ducati launches new touring gear

If you love touring on your Ducati in Italian style, safety and comfort, you’re going to want the new touring range from the Borgo Panigale manufacturer.

Ducati Australia and New Zealand head of market Alana Baratto says the touring gear will arrive in November.

If you can’t wait, you can buy the gear online on shop.ducati.com.

Sport Touring C3 Jacket ($A789)Ducati touring gear

The Tour C3 sport-touring jacket, is produced by Spidi exclusively for Ducati with CE-certified protectors on shoulders and elbows. You can also fit a back protector.

The outer jacket, made of a mix of polyester fabrics, is equipped with large air vents and has a waterproof and breathable H2Out membrane.

The removable thermal lining can also be worn as a casual jacket.

It is designed to be worn zipped together with Tour C3 trousers.

It comes in a men’s cut in black/red and high-visibility black/ yellow, and for women in black/red.

Tour C3 Trousers ($A499)Ducati touring gear

The Tour C3 trousers are designed by Aldo Drudi and made in collaboration with Spidi Sport.

They also have the H2Out membrane, CE-certified shin and hip protectors, a removable lining, elastic fabric, and zipper-adjustable air vents.

The pants are tailored in different cuts for men and women.

Fabric-leather gloves Strada C4 ($A299)Ducati touring gear

These limited Strada C4 gloves are produced by Held exclusively for Ducati.

The exterior is made of cowhide, sheep leather and polyamide fabric.

Inside is a Gore-Tex waterproof and breathable membrane. However, the reduced thickness created by the Gore grip process still allows control sensitivity.

They also have SuperFabric inserts, volume adjustments on the wrist and are fully CE-certified.

Horizon helmet ($A999)Ducati touring gear

The Horizon composite fibre helmet is based on X-lite’s X-1004 shell, but designed by Drudi Performance.

This modular helmet is one of only a few flip-up designs approved to be worn while riding in the open position.

The chin guard has a dual safety opening system and ventilation system.

There is a removable and washable internal padding, a sun visor with UV 400 protection and reflex inserts for greater visibility.

Black Steel helmet ($A949)Ducati gear

The Black Steel helmet is based on the Arai Renegade V and designed by Drudi.

The outer shell is made of SFL fibre while the inner shell is made of EPS with differentiated density.

Its interior is made of antibacterial and washable fabric, the VAS visor has a wide field of view and the ventilation system is able to circulate about 14 litres of air per minute.

All Terrain Touring Boots ($A569)Ducati touring gear

These CE-approved, full grain leather and suede, all-terrain boots were made in collaboration with TCX.

They are equipped with a waterproof and breathable eVent membrane and a closure system with adjustable, interchangeable aluminium levers.

The boots have a rubber sole for maximum grip on the pegs and feature lined pleats to increase comfort.

Ducati Communication System V2 ($A569)Ducati gear

This intercom system with voice commands allows up to 15 motorcyclists to communicate simultaneously in a range up to 1.6km in “ideal conditions” and about 1km in “real conditions”.

The connection is automatic, activates by talking and goes off after 30 seconds of silence.

In case of interruption, the connection is automatically restored.

It is based on a Cardo Intercom System and allows the rider to make and answer calls, control mobile devices with the touch of a finger or a voice command and listen Bluetooth music or the integrated FM radio.

The volume of the device adjusts automatically according to the background noise.

It features universal connectivity with any Bluetooth headset of any brand.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Warranty issues on motorcycle clothing

If you’ve ever had motorcycle gear fail through wear and tear or a crash, it could be covered by the Australian Trades Practices Act and/or the manufacturer’s warranty.

But first, click here to see the difference between a product failure and rider error.

Consumer protection

If it’s a genuine product failure, then it is deemed “not fit for purpose” and the Act will offer consumer protection.

The problem is that “fit for purpose” can be difficult to quantify and prove.

However, if the garment makes a specific claim that is not met, then that is a pretty clear case of product failure.

Otherwise, if it fails to meet basic acceptable standards such as the zipper failing, you should be due a repair, refund or replacement.

LDM ExoFlex jacketYKK zips

Most protective motorcycle clothing brands vie for consumer dollars by also offering manufacturer warranties that go above and beyond the basic statutory requirements.

They can vary from one year to as many as seven years.

A one-year warranty may be sufficient to reveal any issues if you are a regular rider.

However, weekend warriors or monthly riders may require a longer warranty period to identify any problems.

Warranty conditions

Riders should also note that a warranty is only as good as the fine print exclusions and conditions.

For example, some warranties may exclude track use and even crashes which is strange since surely the main reason to buy protective motorcycle clothing is to protect you in a crash.

Interestingly, one company also offers a crash guarantee on some of their gear, promising a replacement if the damage cannot be repaired for half the cost of a new item.

However, they do not cover gear that has been cut off by a first responder.

MotoCAP senior researcher Dr Chris Hurren awardChris Hurren and his Honda GB400

Dr Chris Hurren who researches protective materials for a living and worked with Dr Liz de Rome and others to produce the protocol used by MotoCAP for testing says a suitable warranty should cover materials, closures and seams.

“It should cover defects from manufacture and use of faulty components during assembly,” he says.

“A warranty will also allow a manufacturer to see what is giving problems with their garments and allow them to find an alternative as they will see trends in components or seam failures.

“Most warranties will not cover general wear and tear or ageing from extended use but these are sensible as they are out of the control of the manufacturer.”

CE approved

Link International product manager Ron Grant points out that a major benefit of buying European CE-approved riding gear is that once approved, manufacturers are not allowed to change material, stitch lines, manufacturing plant, etc.

If they do, the garment has to be re-submitted for testing at an average cost of about $10,000 per garment.

“This guarantees product consistency,” Ron says.

“Non-CE brands usually place an order for jackets, don’t actually go to the factories for quality control checks, cannot guarantee the material used is the same quality as last production, nor even guarantee who is making the gear as there is potential the factory the product was ordered from may sub-contract production to someone else,” he warns.

Ron says one of the biggest issues facing the industry is not just trying to teach riders what garment is better than the other, but also the necessity to actually wear safety gear.

“Recently I saw a guy on a new sports bike with brand new boots, leather jacket, gloves, top-of-the-range helmet and board shorts,” he says.

“Every day I see guys geared up on their way to work wearing runners or lace up work shoes. Or no jacket. Or shorts. Or normal jeans. The other day I saw a guy fanging over Mt G with a pretty young lady on the back with a string top and skimpy shorts.”

He says the onus is on experienced salesperson to expertly advise customers so they buy the right gear for their use.

“Of course, that is all negated when buying online,” he says.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle riding gear failures

Your motorcycle jackets, pants, gloves and boots that are supposed to protect you in a crash, can sometimes experience failures of the most basic test of simple wear and tear.

However, it is important to differentiate a product failure from a rider error.

Product failures

We recently bought a pair of motorcycle gloves (pictured above) that split the stitching at the cuff after a few weeks of normal riding.

The gloves had a one-year warranty and the shop contacted the distributor who replaced them.

Motorcycle riding gear failures glovesSame failure

Only a few weeks later the second pair failed in exactly the same way.

Obviously there appears to be an inherent design fault in the gloves.

This is not the only example of motorcycle protective gear failing the basic wear and tear test.

Dr Chris Hurren who researches protective materials for a living and worked with Dr Liz de Rome and others to produce the protocol used by MotoCAP for testing has also experienced basic wear failures.

While trying on a pair of protective denim pants in a store, the top button above the zip pulled apart and fell off.

“This was obviously a problem that the manufacturer knew about as the garment came with a spare metal button however in reality should the product have been in the market place in the first place,” he says.

“This failure before even leaving the store should be a quick indicator of the build product of a garment.”

It’s not Dr Hurren’s only personal encounter with a wear failure.

After spending $700 on a leather jacket, he found the zip failed after two years.

“I have since observed new jackets hanging in store from the same manufacturer with a zip that was corroded and already causing trouble during use,” he says.

“The addition of a low-cost zip to a high-cost jacket significantly reduces its working life.

“Closures like zips, buttons and clips often have higher loading due to body size and may be strained to failure during impact grip with the road in a crash.”

MotoCAP senior researcher Dr Chris HurrenDr Chris Hurren

Rider error

However, some complaints about protective clothing failures can be due to rider error, not product failure.

Waterproof claims are a classic example, says Link International product manager Ron Grant.

“You can have the best jacket in the world, but if you don’t get all the closures correctly positioned, ensure your shirt collar or cuffs aren’t exposed (which creates a wicking point for water entry) you will still get wet,” he says.

“The majority of wet claims I believe are mainly due to incorrect usage or fitment.

“If you wear gloves over your cuff, water penetrates through the jacket stitching in the chest and arms, runs down between the outer shell and the outside of the waterproof liner (so the rider is still dry) and drains straight into the gloves. This is not a glove issue but a rider fitment issue.

“Likewise with waterproof boots. I see riders buy ‘shorty’ waterproof boots and then complain they get wet feet.

Draggin Hydro waterproof jacket and pantsDraggin Hydro waterproof jacket and pants

“If you have a look at their rain pants when their feet are on the pegs, the rain pants may ride up just enough to allow water into the boots.”

Riders also have a duty to maintain and treat their gear appropriately.

For example, zippers can get dry from dust and bugs etc. An occasional rub over with a candle or an appropriate wax on the zipper teeth will help the zipper slide smoothly and last longer.

Likewise, screwing up a zip in waterproof liner and securing it under a couple of Occy straps can damage the waterproof coating allowing water to enter the jacket. 

Warranty

If your riding gear has experienced a genuine product failure, you may be due a replacement or repair under warranty.

Click here to find out more about warranties.

Have you ever had motorcycle gear fail a basic wear test? Leave your comments below.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Updated Sidi Crossfire 3 SRS boots for 2020 land in Australia

2020 Sidi Crossfire 3 SRS Boots


McLeod Accessories have announced the arrival of the 2020 Sidi Crossfire and Crossfire 3 SRS boots, with new colour options and expanded sizes in the Crossfire 3 SRS Black boot, catering for a wider variety of riders, particularly those with smaller feet.

The Crossfire 3 SRS is available in Orange/Fluro/Black/White (sizes 42-47); Red/Red/Black (sizes 42-47), and in Black/Black which add new sizes in 40 and 41 for a total range of 40 to 48. The Crossfire 3 SRS is available for $819.95 RRP.

Sidi CrossFire SRS Boot OraFluBlaWhi2020 Sidi Crossfire 3 SRS Boot

The standard Crossfire 3 is also available in sizes 42 to 50 for $749.95 RRP. The primary difference is that the regular Crossfire 3 does without the SRS sole and instead uses a fixed rubber sole. In previous models some riders have found the non SRS variants of the boots more comfortable.

The Sidi Crossfire 3 boot features a Technomicro construction, offering improved strength and lighter weight than leather, alongside high abrasion and tearing resistance, while remaining easy to clean, and featuring Sidi’s Flex System for a wide range of movement.

A replaceable thermoplastic shin-plate is also featured, alongside four micro-adjustable buckle closures with indented memory regulation straps ensuring a high level of adjustability and support for individual riders.

Sidi CrossFire SRS Boot RedRedBlack2020 Sidi Crossfire 3 SRS Boot

Also replaceable are the inner calf plate in PU and a rubber printed insert to protect from heat, with the calf plate offering double adjustment to widen the boot, or accomodate shin guards.

A Hyper Extension Block is featured on the ankle, helping prevent hyper extension of the ankle, instep and posterior tendon when the leg is flexed forward or back, while the whole boot leg upper is assembled with screws, making it totally replaceable.

An anatomically shaped heal is manufactured in PU, and designed to provide protection in the case of twisting, as well as overall comfort. A plastic protection panel covers the whole toe section, with an embossed design to ensure good grip.

The SRS Dovetail sole is a replaceable system, with a tip and heel fixed, while a rubber insert with dovetail system and four screws offering ensure secure fit, on a sole that is easily replaced, like many other sections of the Crossfire 3 SRS boot.

For more information see your local Sidi stockist or check out the McLeod Accessories website at https://www.mcleodaccessories.com.au/ (link).

Sidi CrossFire Boot RedRedBlackThe 2020 Sidi Crossfire 3 Boot is available for $749.95 RRP and comes with a fixed rubber sole
Source: MCNews.com.au

MotoGP visitors urged to support Blue Knot Day

Riders on their way home from this weekend’s MotoGP have been urged to visit the Blue Knot Day site in Sale to help those affected by trauma, such as road accidents.

The Blue Knot Foundation acknowledge and celebrate their annual Blue Knot Day focusing this year on empowerment, recovery and resilience for those who have been affected by complex trauma.

That includes “road trauma” or crashes, whether directly involved or even as a witness; something with which many riders unfortunately have to deal.

Renowned motorcycle advocates, Maurice Blackburn Lawyers, support the Blue Knot Foundation as part of the National Redress Scheme which is actually in response to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

MBL spokesman Lloyd Toffolon says they are helping out the team that look specifically after the survivors of institutional abuse.

“This year we are hoping we could encourage riders who are heading back through Gippsland on their way home after the MotoGP to stop in at our Blue Knot Day site in Sale,” he says.

“Maurice Blackburn has seen the value in developing pathways for people regionally and remotely have access to support and counselling to help heal. 

They can grab a coffee with us, have a rest and support a fantastic foundation working with those who have suffered complex trauma, not just through abuse but includes those who have witnessed road trauma, or family involvement post trauma.

“It also gives us an opportunity to celebrate all social, health and community workers, and organisations, in the Latrobe Valley and Gippsland region who work closely with those who have been affected by trauma.

Blue Knot Day

When : Monday 28 October 2019

Where: Bond St Centre – 10 Bond St Sale

When: 9.30am to 12pm

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

BMW heritage fashion suits R 18 cruiser

BMW Motorrad has launched a 2020 heritage collection of rider gear to appeal to riders of their R nineT models as well as the upcoming R 18 cruiser.

“BMW Motorrad has announced the launch of a serial-production motorcycle for the second half of 2020, which will mark its entry into the cruiser segment,” their press release says.

BMW Concept R8 cruiser r 18 heritage
BMW R 18 cruiser concept

R 18 cruiser

While BMW Motorrad Australia can’t confirm pricing or arrival of the cruiser nor the heritage gear, they have incorporated a website page for the cool cruiser collection. It should start arriving in shops next year.

It’s obviously designed to appeal to younger riders with its casual look and feel rather than sports riders.

Their heritage clothing segment was started in 2014 to coincide with the launch of the R nineT models.

The return to cruiser models will give the company a new market niche.

We expect to see the R 18 cruiser unveiled at the ECMA Motorcycle Show in Milan next month.

BMW Motorrad Australia recently confirmed they are already taking orders for the big, 1800cc, retro cruiser.

Heritage styleBMW R 18 heritage

The BMW Motorrad Heritage Collection 2020 features a wide range of new items, from leather jackets to denim outfits, as well as motorcycle gloves and signature boots.

BMW says their early classic motorcycle colours and graphics are incorporated into the designs, such as black metal parts with fine white “TwinStripes” and the original BMW metal emblem.BMW R 18 heritage

“The copper-coloured details and visual accents displayed in these garments hark back to the materials used in classic BMW motorcycles,” they say.

There are also old-style engineer boots and open-face cruiser helmets in the heritage collection.

The first BMW motorcycle was the 1923 R32 with an air-cooled, two-cylinder flat-twin boxer engine.

In 1978, BMW Motorrad was one of the first serial-production manufacturers in the world to introduce a rider equipment range.

SafetyBMW R 18 heritage

“All the materials and textiles used are robust and long-lasting and they fulfil the highest standards of safety and functionality,” BMW says.

All items will be European-approved.

None of the gear has yet been tested by Australia’s MotoCAP, the world’s first rider gear safety and comfort rating system.

However, other BMW jackets, pants and gloves have been rated. Click here for more details.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

What does CE approved clothing mean?

(CE certification article contributed by Pando Moto)

Motorcycle protective rider gear has become a lot safer over the years since Europe introduced a CE legal standard for motorcycle clothing, known as EN13595, in 1994.

It was originally designed as a standard for professional racers, but now any motorcycle clothing that does not meet the standard cannot be sold as ‘protective’ wear in Europe.

This CE standard (Conformité Européene or European Conformity) is now used throughout most of the world.

In Australia, it gets a little more confusing as we also have an independent MotoCAP testing regime for safety and comfort. Click here for the latest news on gloves that failed their tests.

If you are confused with the various labels, CE markings, standards and information about impact protection, double-stitched seams, and abrasion testing, read on.

CE markings and regulations

When buying protective motorcycle clothing, it is important to know whether the garments you are considering are produced to at least a minimum CE standard.

A label should have a CE marking permanently attached to the garment.

Pando Moto CE label

Any CE-approved product must come with a certificate of conformity.

What do CE standards mean?

If a product bears any type of CE marking, this means its manufacturer has constructed this garment to an applicable standard of safety and protection legislation.

This means the product is made to at least a particular level of quality for the consumer’s reassurance.

In 1995, Cambridge University played a big part in the development of CE marking, which aided an increase of knowledge for anticipated CE personal protective clothing regulations.

CE tested, certified or approved?

There is a huge difference between the terms “CE Tested”, “CE Certified”, and “CE Approved”:

CE Tested: The term normally implies that the manufacturer tested the whole or just a piece of a garment within their own facility that might meet certain standards. However, the garment is not necessarily tested in a certified testing facility to meet officially accredited standards.
CE Certified: This term is more secure, as it states that the garment samples were tested in certified testing facilities. In this case, you need to find out which part of a garment was tested.
CE Approved: This term means several parts of a garment were tested in certified facilities and are accredited to meet or surpass the required standards in all zones.

Garment testing zones

The certification test EN13595 uses two test levels, with the body divided into four zones (see illustration with zones below):

CE Testing zones

Zone 1: must-have impact protectors and needs to last 4 seconds on the Cambridge Abrasion Machine to meet Level 1 protection, and 7 seconds to meet Level 2.
Zone 2: must-have impact protectors and needs to last 4 seconds on the Cambridge Abrasion Machine to meet Level 1 protection, and 7 seconds to meet Level 2.
Zone 3: requires 1.8seconds for Level 1 and 2.5 for level 2.
Zone 4: can be used for ventilation and stretch panels, but must still last 1 second on the abrasion rig for Level 1, and 1.5 seconds for Level 2.

Cambridge abrasion machine

EN17092 has five test levels, covering three key zones of the garment – Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3, with samples tested on a Darmstadt machine that spins them at a set speed until they’re dropped on to a slab of control concrete where they slow to a stop.

Darmstadt machine

Usually, you will see A, B or C letters on a label that indicates garments classification.

Classification AAA: The highest level, demanding four seconds of abrasion resistance with the machine spinning at 707.4rpm (the equivalent of 120km/h) in Zone 1, two seconds at 442.1rpm (about 75km/h) in Zone 2 and one second at 265rpm (around 45km/h) in Zone 3.
Classification AA: More suited to touring gear, this specifies two seconds in Zone 1 at 412.6rpm (about 70km/h), one second at 265.3rpm in Zone 2 and 0.5 seconds at 147.4rpm (the equivalent of around 25kmh) in Zone 3.
Classification A: Deemed suitable for urban riding, with Zone 1 requiring one second of abrasion resistance at 265.3rpm and half a second at 147.4rpm in Zone 2.
Classification B: same as A, but impact protectors are not required.
Classification C: covers garments such as the mesh under-suits that have impact protection for off-road riding.

Samples are taken from each zone to be tested for seam strength and abrasion resistance.

A company using the same materials and construction methods in two or more jackets, for example, could meet approval with one test, so long as the tested parts are put together in a tested way within the tested zones, and subsequent garments are added to the certificate.

Once these materials and construction methods are approved, they cannot be changed, and that includes the specific supplier of the material.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Aldi claims safest motorcycle gear yet

Aldi claims this year’s annual motorcycle gear sale will feature their safest gear yet with their $189 leather jacket being the most popular buy.

The sale is usually held in the first couple of Saturdays of August, but has been delayed this year until 31 August 2019, starting at 8.30am.

“Every year we work to improve the range to make it even better than the last,” an Aldi spokesperson says.

“This year is no exception, with considerable time devoted to product development, sourcing and testing to ensure our products are of the highest quality and exceptionally priced.”

In past year, sale items have been selected with the help of Neuroscience Research Australia’s Dr Liz de Rome.

Liz, a rider since 1969, also helped develop MotoCAP, motorcycle clothing ratings system. So far, MotoCAP has not tested any Aldi products.Aldi annual sale - Riders urged to support motorcycle dealers claims

Safety claims

However, Aldi claims they have been “testing relevant motorcycle clothing products to European Standards for several years in order to obtain independent certification”.

“This year, we have worked closely with our supply partners to create products that are both safe and stylish – all without compromising on quality,” their spokesperson says.

“All Torque motorcycle clothing has been certified to the European Personal Protective Equipment Regulation (2016/425).

“We anticipate the leather jacket will be popular among customers as it is exceptional value for money.”

Their 2019 catalogue of motorcycle gear on sale this year will be available on their website next week.

Aldi says the Torque leather jacket features APT-TECH protection technology at the elbows and shoulders, is compliant to Level 2 European Standard EN 13595 and has impact protectors in the back, shoulder and elbow that are compliant to EN 1621.

aldi motorcycle gear sale
Leather Jacket – $189

Their Torque motorcycle boots ($99.99) have strengthened heels, hi-vis reflective ankle strips and meet requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment standard EN 13634.

aldi motorcycle gear sale
Boots – $99.99

The Torque motorcycle denim jeans ($79.99) have reinforcement lining made of “high-tenacity aramid fibre at critical areas of seat, hips & knees”. They are compliant to EN 17092-4:2019 for “A” classification garments and feature EN 1621 knee protectors.

aldi motorcycle gear sale
Denim Jeans – $79.99

They have a choice of two Torque gloves, both costing $34.99.

Their goat leather pair have carbon fibre protectors for the knuckles and fingers, rubber padding in “critical areas” and are EN 13594 level 1 compliant.

aldi motorcycle gear sale
Carbon Knuckle Leather Gloves – $34.99 (2)

However, their padded gloves do not have an EN certification. Instead, they have 3D foam rubber protection at the knuckles, fingers and thumbs with 3M Thinsulate padding

aldi motorcycle gear sale
Padded Leather Gloves – $34.99

As usual, there is also a range of other motorcycle goods for sale including balaclavas, thermals, bike covers and helmets.

Plus, there’s our perennial favourite – $9.99 Aldi motorcycle socks!

New this year are three types of $19.99 locks and chains to secure your bike and/or luggage.

aldi motorcycle sale theft stolen locks
Locks – $19.99

There is also a range of $39.99 tail and tank bags.

Riders urged to support dealers

However, riders have been urged by the Australian Motorcycle Dealers Association to support their local motorcycle dealer who {“deserves rider loyalty in tough times“.

They point out that motorcycle retailers offer a lot more product choice and all-year round availability.

Supporters of the Aldi sale say it promotes the wearing of good quality gear by making it affordable to more riders. 

In our coverage of the annual Aldi sale, as well as MotoCAP’s testing of products, we find readers claim Aldi products are good quality and value.

We have also tested Aldi gear and find it is up to par, including the Bluetooth unit that is still working just fine after three years.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com