Safer Motorcycle Helmets. Stricter Tests. More Protection.
When you're looking for a new motorcycle helmet, you're increasingly seeing the term ECE 22.06 nowadays. But what does this mean exactly? And why are so many motorcyclists switching from ECE 22.05 to this new standard?
In this blog, we'll explain:
- what ECE 22.06 is exactly
- what the difference is with ECE 22.05
- why this standard is important
- what benefits it offers motorcyclists
- what to look for when buying a helmet
For riders who don't want to compromise on safety, this is important information.
What Is ECE 22.06?
ECE 22.06 is the latest European safety standard for motorcycle helmets. This standard defines the safety requirements a helmet must meet before it can be legally sold and used on public roads within Europe.
The regulations were drawn up by the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) and are gradually replacing the older ECE 22.05 standard.
In short:
ECE 22.06 imposes much stricter requirements on modern motorcycle helmets.
Helmets are tested more extensively for:
- impact protection
- rotational forces
- visor safety
- multiple impacts
- different speeds
- realistic crash situations
As a result, ECE 22.06 approved helmets generally offer a higher level of safety than older generations.
What Is The Difference Between ECE 22.05 And ECE 22.06?
The transition from ECE 22.05 to ECE 22.06 is greater than many people think.
While older standards mainly focused on direct impacts, ECE 22.06 looks much more at realistic accidents.
Key differences:
1. More impact points
Helmets are tested at many more points.
With ECE 22.05, only a limited number of fixed points were tested. With ECE 22.06, manufacturers can expect impact tests at almost any point on the helmet.
This ensures that the entire helmet construction must be stronger.
2. Testing at different speeds
Under the new standard, helmets are tested at multiple impact speeds.
That means:
- low-speed impacts
- medium-speed impacts
- heavy impacts
This means helmets must perform better in various crash situations.
3. Rotational forces are included
One of the biggest improvements.
ECE 22.06 not only looks at direct impact but also at rotational forces that occur during a crash.
This type of force plays a major role in:
- concussions
- brain injuries
- neck strain
Modern helmet technologies such as:
- MIPS
- optimized EPS layers
- improved shell constructions
better meet these new requirements.
4. Stricter visor tests
Visors are also tested much more extensively.
Among other things, for:
- impact resistance
- attachment
- optical quality
That means better protection against:
- stone chips
- dirt
- loose parts
5. Accessories are co-tested
With ECE 22.06, accessories such as:
- communication systems
- sun visors
- spoilers
are included in the approval.
This is important because many modern adventure and touring riders use communication systems.
Is An ECE 22.05 Helmet Still Safe?
Yes.
A quality ECE 22.05 helmet is still a safe helmet. These helmets meet legal requirements and still offer good protection.
But:
ECE 22.06 is simply more modern and more extensively tested.
For many motorcyclists, it is therefore a logical choice when buying a new helmet.
Why Is ECE 22.06 Especially Important For Adventure And Sport Riders?
Adventure, touring, and sport riders often cover:
- longer distances
- higher speeds
- more diverse conditions
Therefore, extra protection is important.
Consider:
- highway use
- off-road riding
- changing weather conditions
- longer travel times
- fatigue during travel
A modern ECE 22.06 helmet offers extra safety precisely in these types of situations.
What Should You Look For When Buying An ECE 22.06 Helmet?
Not every helmet is the same.
Therefore, pay attention to:
- fit
- weight
- ventilation
- noise level
- type of use
- compatibility with communication systems
A good helmet should not only be safe but also comfortable during long rides.
For adventure and touring, the following are especially important:
- wide field of vision
- good ventilation
- stable aerodynamics
- comfort during long days in the saddle
Which Helmets Are Available With ECE 22.06?
More and more premium brands are fully switching to ECE 22.06.
Consider:
- Simpson
- Nexx
- LS2
- adventure and touring helmets of modern generations
New models are almost always developed according to this standard.
Is It Smart To Switch To ECE 22.06 Now?
For many motorcyclists, yes.
Especially when:
- your current helmet is getting older
- you ride a lot
- you make long journeys
- you want maximum protection
ECE 22.06 is the new standard for modern motorcycle safety.
Conclusion
ECE 22.06 is much more than just a new sticker on a helmet.
The standard ensures:
- stricter safety tests
- better protection
- more realistic test methods
- higher requirements for modern helmets
For motorcyclists who invest in quality, safety, and confidence on the road, an ECE 22.06 helmet is a logical choice.
Looking For An ECE 22.06 Motorcycle Helmet?
Check out the complete collection of modern ECE 22.06 helmets at WheelsWork.com, including adventure, touring, sport, and off-road models from brands like Simpson, Leatt, Nexx, and more.
