The UN agency that sets ECE motorcycle helmet standards is looking to significantly update its testing regime.

For the past 20 years, the United Nations Economic Commission has tested helmets to the ECE 22.05 standard; helmets that meet that standard are recognized all over the world, including here in Canada (but not in the USA, where DOT is still the standard). Now, they’re talking about significant updates to introduce ECE 22.06 testing standards.

The changes will include an increased number of impact tests (from six impact points, to 18 impact points), with more energy in the high-impact test and also a new low-impact test. The new testing protocol will also study the effect rotational forces have on a helmet, and will have impact tests for drop-down sun shields. Face shields will now have to resist more impact force during testing, and if the helmet company offers proprietary Bluetooth comm systems or other similar add-ons, those will be factored into testing as well.

But wait, there’s more! The updated testing will also change standards for individual helmet styles, like open-face or flip-front helmets.

All in all, the Euro testing standards will look considerably different if this passes the Commission’s vote in June. If that happens, it will become the standard in mid-2023, and ECE 22.05 will no longer be legal for sale in some markets.

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