ECE 22-06 is the latest safety certification for motorcycle helmets in Europe, replacing the long-standing ECE 22-05 standard. Introduced by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), ECE 22-06 sets a new benchmark for helmet testing, ensuring improved protection, performance and consistency for riders across all disciplines.
Why ECE 22-06 Replaces 22-05
The ECE 22-05 standard had been in place since 2000 and, while effective at the time, it no longer reflects advances in helmet technology, materials and real-world riding conditions. ECE 22-06 was introduced to address those gaps by including more rigorous and realistic testing.
Key Improvements in ECE 22-06
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Impact Testing at Multiple Speeds
Helmets are now tested at various speeds to reflect a wider range of crash scenarios, not just average impacts. This means better protection in both high-speed crashes and lower-speed collisions. -
Rotational Impact Testing
For the first time, helmets must now undergo testing that measures rotational acceleration. This is crucial for reducing the risk of brain injuries caused by twisting forces during certain types of crashes. -
More Impact Points
ECE 22-06 increases the number of impact points tested on each helmet, ensuring consistent safety across the entire shell, including areas more vulnerable in real-world crashes. -
Modular Helmet Testing
Flip-front and modular helmets must now be tested in all configurations - open and closed - to ensure they provide adequate protection regardless of how they are worn. -
Accessories and Visors
Helmets are also tested with optional accessories such as intercoms, sun visors and peak visors fitted. This ensures that adding extra features does not compromise safety performance.
What This Means for Riders
ECE 22-06 certified helmets offer a higher level of protection than their 22-05 predecessors. While older helmets with 22-05 certification are still legal to use (for now), manufacturers have begun phasing them out in favour of models that meet the new requirements.
Riders choosing an ECE 22-06 helmet can expect better performance in terms of impact absorption, rotational energy management and overall build quality. These helmets are the result of more advanced design and testing procedures that better simulate real-world riding conditions.
When Will ECE 22-05 Helmets Be Banned?
There is currently no immediate ban on wearing ECE 22-05 helmets, but many EU countries and manufacturers have set internal deadlines. Most manufacturers stopped producing 22-05 helmets in mid-2023. Retailers can still sell them until stocks run out, but only 22-06 helmets can be approved for new type approvals going forward.
Conclusion
ECE 22-06 represents a significant step forward in helmet safety. By covering more impact zones, testing at more speeds and factoring in accessories and rotational forces, the standard ensures helmets are safer and more effective in real-world riding conditions.
If you're shopping for a new helmet, choosing one with ECE 22-06 certification means choosing the most up-to-date protection available. At ThrottleChimp, we stock a growing range of 22-06 approved helmets from leading brands like Shark and Nolan.