What Does CE Level 2 Mean? Motorcycle Armour Explained

CE ratings show up on almost every piece of motorcycle armour sold, but the label rarely explains what's actually being tested. Here's the short version.

What CE certification actually tests

CE armour is tested under EN 1621, a European standard measuring how much impact force gets through the armour to your body during a controlled hit. Lower force transmitted means a better rating. It's not a marketing line. It's an independently tested standard that armour has to pass before it can legally carry the CE mark at all.

Level 1 vs Level 2

The difference comes down to how much force is allowed through. CE Level 1 permits a higher average transmitted force, and it's still genuine protection, usually thinner and more flexible, which is why it turns up a lot in casual and commuter gear. CE Level 2 cuts that allowed force roughly in half. It's the higher standard, and it's what you'll find across race suits and serious road gear, including every Motorce suit and jacket. Level 2 pads used to be noticeably bulkier to hit that lower number, though modern construction has narrowed the gap.

Where it matters most

Shoulders, elbows, knees and the back take the most direct hits in a typical fall, which is why they're the standard armour zones across suits, jackets and pants. The back protector is worth checking separately when you're buying. Plenty of jackets are sold "armour-ready" without one actually included.

What to check before you buy

Look for the CE rating printed on the armour itself, not just claimed in the garment's marketing copy. The two don't always match. Every Motorce race suit, custom jacket and pair of custom pants ships with genuine CE Level 2 armour at the shoulders, elbows, knees and back as standard. Not an add-on.