There kinda is an excuse, Rukka claim that the stretch gortex does not do very well on the abrasion test machine but are willing to make that compromise for comfort. I really have no clue weather this is true or not but I also don't think the abrasion test is a very real world test for textiles as you don't slide in them like you do in leather. I will say I'm not too impressed with the back protector that comes standard in the Nivala so I currently have a Kingsley jacket with navala trousers. Having said all that I plan on getting a air bag suit made when funds allow, out of dead cow though
Yeah I wouldn't take anything motolegends say as gospel, they absolutely have an agenda away from leather - their argument being that leather are really uncomfortable, therefore unsafe... Which is kind of a nonsense argument if you're sliding across the tarmac in your jeans with some rubber armour. when some volvo has T-boned your comfortable arse
They do speak a load of drivel most of the time lol, their price match plus 10% can come in very handy though, nearly £400 of my last jacket.
I feel that motolegends do a good job in laying out their arguments and are a lot more honest in their opinions and views than many retailers. I’ve read their articles about the Rukka Nivala’s rating. The points they make are: The stretch in the material, which makes it comfortable to wear, does not perform as well in the new abrasion test. This is why it gets an A rating. The armour in a Rukka is far superior to many AA rated jackets and armour is responsible for protection and preventing serious injuries from impacts which is not covered in the new test. An AAA rated jacket is stiff, thick and more uncomfortable to wear. The Rukka is extremely comfortable and the point they make is if you are comfortable then you are more relaxed on the bike (passive safety, the same as being too hot or too cold). Personally I’m very happy with my choice of a Nivala but I understand why others might look at the labels and feel the need to look for the highest rating.
Likewise I’ve moved away from wearing leather as the type of riding I do on my Multistrada means textiles are a more practical option.
Just to clarify what I said about Motolegends was more aimed at their arguments against more sporty stuff that they don't sell rather than their information about the products that they do stock, which seems to be spot on .
Yes I agree with above. I think it's really their Personal Preference, and then they've crafted an effective and highly personal sales narrative around this. They're also catering for the "life-style" crowd who all want to look like James dean or Steve McQueen with a bomber jacket and some ankle breaker boots. These guys don't want to wear leathers and probably feel safe pottering about looking cool. When they DO have their first big crash I guarantee they will double think. If they can still walk. I actually like dealing with them and found their service excellent, we just have differences of opinion on what looks and feels safe on a bike.
The CE rating on the label, is not always the whole story. The absolute top of the range Held Titan RR gloves (possibly the best money can buy) do not have the top rating because of a small patch of extra material, stitched to reinforce an area of the glove, won’t pass the test. Doesn’t affect the performance of the glove but knowing it’ll fail, Held state it is not cost effective to pay for the higher rating. Being a seasoned anorak, I’d like a bit more detail than just the rating achieved. It is also fair to state, the manufacturers are very well (overly IMO) represented on the advisory committees that come up with the standards. Andy
Nailed it Andy. The EU standard A AA AAA was 100% designed by the manufacturers, Precisely because they were able to successfully lobby. Very few of them were able to actually meet the original BS Standard set in the late 1990's
Like all protective gear, if it doesn't fit properly then it won't do its job properly. I must confess that in recent times, I don't wear leather as much as I used to, though it does depend on where I am going and the type of riding planned. When it's hot, then leather gear is just very uncomfortable.
That’s putting it mildly. The manufacturers comprise half the members of the CE and UK CA standards committees, including the CE standards committee Chair. A Dainese representative chaired the CE committee that devised the A, AA and AAA ratings. They lowered the AA standard when they found their clothing couldn’t pass it. Moreover, both committees only work by unanimous decision, which has proven hopeless. The UK CA committee sought to introduce AAAA and AAAAA ratings to better serve the police and trackday riders. One company (Knox) vetoed it despite the majority supporting the introduction of higher standards.
It's the same with most governing bodies, they are in it for what they can get out of it rather than the good of whatever they are governing.....
