What is CE Level 1 Armour and Why Does it Matter?
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CE Level 1 armour is an independently tested safety standard for motorcycle protective gear. It means the armour has been certified to absorb a maximum transmitted force of 18 kN (kilonewtons) in an impact test. In plain terms: it is proven to significantly reduce the force transferred to your body in a crash.
If you are buying motorcycle gear, CE armour certification is the single most important thing to check. Here is everything you need to know.
What Does CE Stand For?
CE stands for Conformité Européenne — a European product safety marking. For motorcycle armour, CE certification is governed by the EN 1621 standard series. Any armour carrying a CE mark has passed independent laboratory testing that verified its impact protection performance.
CE Level 1 vs CE Level 2 — What is the Difference?
There are two levels of CE motorcycle armour certification:
- CE Level 1: Maximum transmitted force of 18 kN. Suitable for most touring, adventure and commuting riding.
- CE Level 2: Maximum transmitted force of 9 kN — half the force of Level 1. Required for track use and higher-risk riding.
For motorcycle touring and everyday riding, CE Level 1 provides excellent, independently verified protection. All Ignite Gear motorcycle touring suits include CE Level 1 certified armour at the shoulders, elbows and knees as standard.
Where Should CE Armour Be Located?
CE certified armour should be positioned at the highest-risk impact zones:
- Shoulders — most common impact point in a crash
- Elbows — natural instinct to break a fall
- Knees — exposed in low-speed slides
- Back — optional but highly recommended for spine protection
How to Verify CE Certification
Always check the physical armour insert itself — not just the product listing. Genuine CE certified armour will have the CE mark, the EN standard number and the protection level (L1 or L2) printed directly on the armour piece. If the armour does not have this marking, it is not CE certified.
Why Does CE Certification Matter?
Uncertified padding — even thick foam — provides very little real protection in a crash impact. CE certification is the only independent, verified way to confirm your gear will actually perform when it matters. Do not compromise on this.
All Ignite Gear suits include CE Level 1 certified armour built in — so you can ride with confidence knowing you are properly protected. Shop our certified touring suits here.
