Back protector news-you must read!

Originally Posted by RobWireless

The EN1621-2 standard contains two levels that are considered passable. One transmits no more than 18 kN of force (LEVEL 1), and the other transmits no more than 9 kN (LEVEL 2), but both of these levels fall within that 1621-2 back protector standard. For example, Alpinestars states that the Tech Protector is 1621-2 approved but makes no claim of LEVEL 1 or Level 2 compliance.


To reinforce the previous explanation: What the consumer needs to know is that there are several different CE certification standards. There is the EN1621-1 standard that applies to shoulder,elbow and knee protection. There is, also, the EN1621-2 standard that comes in two levels, Level 1 and Level 2. EN1621-2 Level 1 transmits 18 kN of force through the product, from an initial impact force of 50kN, while EN1621-2 Level 2 transmits 9 kN of force through the product from an initial impact force of 50kN. The Level 2 certification literally transmits half the force through the product in comparison to Level 1.
The back protector standard (EN1621-2) can be either 18 kN for LEVEL 1 compliance or 9 kN for LEVEL 2 "high performance" compliance.

Cheers Rob!

That has explained things perfectly for me! I am now a happy bunny. I thought that the -2 suffix denoted that it was level two. I didn't know it was a standard with different levels.

They don't make it easy do they?

I am now going to get me a back protector. The Forcefield Pro level 2 or the Knox Contour I think. What does everyone else think?

Everyone please feel free to call me an idiot or words to that effect.

I found it impossible deciding -and probably brought the wrong one - got an Alpinestars full length back protector - so I wear it with the built in CE protectors too

I think the bit of foam that comes in the "magazine pocket" of jackets offers great protection. Stopped me from getting sore knees when I'm working on the bike in the garage on many an occasion.

[fizzwheel]

Originally Posted by tricky

I think the bit of foam that comes in the "magazine pocket" of jackets offers great protection. Stopped me from getting sore knees when I'm working on the bike in the garage on many an occasion.

I've got a Knox and so has Liz. However the Forcefield also seems to get really good reviews to.

Go to a shop try a few on see which one you feel most comfortable wearing and buy that one. it will feel a little odd for the first few times, but you soon get used to it. When you go to purchase take your jacket / leathers with you so that you check that it fits under your jacket OK.

This can be a very misleading subject. Misleading in terms of clothing manufacturer's if the suggestion of CE approval and CE certification is true and I have no reason to dispute it.

I have a KNOX ricochet back protector because others have said and some unfortunatley proved designated back protectors do work. £80 to know its gonna work is fine with me. £80 I could do with not spending but happy to do so in the knowledge it will do what it says.

My leather jacket has a KNOX CE 1621-2 back protector in it, not full length but fully marked up. I assume that this would be compliant as marked but the suggestion of clothing manufacturer's working around the standards does concern me.

My Richa textile jacket has a back protector also but less clearly marked although there is a big label in the lining that says 'Fitted with CE Impact Protection' If it is CE certified then fair enough but if it is a misleading statement by the manufacturer to improve sales then thats bang out of order IMO.

Bottom line, I wear a back protector everytime I go out, no exceptions, ever! Guarenteed the day I don't wear it I will come a cropper!

That's my tuppenceworth on the subject

[embee]

I've had the Forcefield T-Pro (marketed under a variety of names in different countries note!) for a couple of years, and it's a very nice piece of kit. Thoroughly recommended.

I haven't used any other make so can't compare, but you wouldn't be disappointed with one. RIDE liked them.

I've just got a Rukka A-Tech jacket with its own protector, but comparing them is like chalk and cheese and for 99% of the time I'm sure I'll stay with the Forcefield, it's a "proper tool" and extends much further down than the jacket's own item.

It's very comfortable, helps keep you warm in cooler weather. The only downside is that it does get a bit too warm in hot weather, but up to 25C it's no problem at all, and only mildly uncomfortable at 30C. That was half the reason I got the Rukka, to make it a bit cooler than my heavy leathers in summer.

Originally Posted by RobWireless

Here you go Rich:

http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/ge...iew/index.html

If you don't mind some reading.

Christ!

I have a Dianese back protector. To be honest, I think all of the better ones from the specialists all do a good job, so go somewhere that sells them all (or most of them) and find which one fits the best and is most comfortable.

And you're an idiot.... Well you said I could say so

.

Originally Posted by fizzwheel

I've got a Knox and so has Liz. .

did liz buy one specifically designed for ladies. I have problems getting back protectors to fit properly. they squash my boobs together so I look like dolly parton and then I have problems doing up my jacket.