As a trusted UK retailer of motorcycle clothing, helmets, and accessories, Moto Central is committed to offering riders the safest and highest-quality gear. One of the most essential benchmarks for protective clothing is the Cambridge Abrasion Test, a rigorous testing method that evaluates a material's resistance to abrasion during high-stress incidents, such as sliding on tarmac after a fall. This article delves deeper into the brands that utilise this testing method, why it’s vital, and its benefits and limitations.
Brands That Use the Cambridge Abrasion Test
Many leading motorcycle gear brands integrate the Cambridge Abrasion Test into their design and manufacturing processes to ensure their products meet stringent safety standards. Some notable brands include:
- Rukka: Known for its premium motorcycle clothing, Rukka incorporates abrasion-tested textiles like Cordura and Armacor to offer unparalleled durability.
- Held: Renowned for its gloves and suits, Held ensures its leather and textile combinations provide exceptional abrasion resistance.
- Dainese: A pioneer in protective gear, Dainese uses advanced materials like D-Stone and leather tested to withstand rigorous conditions.
- Furygan: This French brand relies on abrasion-resistant fabrics and reinforcements in key areas, tested under Cambridge standards.
- Klim: Specialising in adventure gear, Klim’s use of high-strength fabrics like SuperFabric is validated through abrasion testing.
At Moto Central, we stock many of these brands, giving you access to gear that combines style, comfort, and proven safety.
Why Do Brands Use the Cambridge Abrasion Test?
Motorcycle brands choose the Cambridge Abrasion Test because of its reliability and real-world applicability. The test mimics the forces a rider might experience during a crash, particularly when sliding at high speeds. This ensures the gear performs as intended when it matters most.
Key Reasons:
- Consumer Trust: Passing the test demonstrates the brand's commitment to safety, reassuring riders that their gear is designed to protect in critical situations.
- Compliance with Standards: The test is a key part of European safety certifications like EN 13595 (clothing), EN 13594 (gloves), and EN 13634 (footwear).
- Material Innovation: Brands use the test to evaluate new materials and construction techniques, ensuring they meet or exceed existing safety benchmarks.
Benefits of the Cambridge Abrasion Test
- Realistic Simulation: The test accurately replicates sliding conditions on surfaces like asphalt or chip-sealed roads, providing reliable data on material performance.
- Safety Assurance: Materials that pass the test are proven to resist perforation, ensuring critical protection during accidents.
- Consistency: The test uses a standardised method, allowing fair comparison across different materials and brands.
- Encourages Innovation: The test pushes manufacturers to develop stronger, lighter, and more durable materials, such as SuperFabric, Armacor, and reinforced leathers.
Limitations of the Cambridge Abrasion Test
While the Cambridge Abrasion Test is an excellent measure of abrasion resistance, it does have some limitations:
- Focus on Abrasion Only: The test doesn’t assess other critical factors like impact resistance, tear strength, or flexibility.
- Laboratory Setting: Real-world conditions, such as uneven road surfaces or varying sliding angles, may differ from the controlled environment of the test.
- Material Specificity: Some advanced materials, while strong in abrasion tests, may not perform as well in other scenarios, like high-impact crashes.
Why Moto Central Trusts Cambridge-Tested Gear
At Moto Central, we prioritise safety and quality. That’s why many of the brands we stock undergo the Cambridge Abrasion Test. This ensures their gear not only meets but exceeds safety standards, giving our customers the confidence they need on the road. Whether you’re an everyday commuter, a weekend warrior, or a long-distance tourer, we’ve got you covered with gear that’s been tested to protect.
Explore Cambridge-Tested Gear at Moto Central
Our Leicestershire showroom offers an extensive range of abrasion-tested gear. From jackets and gloves to boots and trousers, you’ll find top brands like Rukka, Held, Dainese, and Furygan, all designed with your safety in mind. Our helmet showroom and dedicated sections for sports, touring, adventure, and urban gear ensure you’ll find the perfect fit for your riding style.
Shop with confidence and enjoy:
- Free UK delivery on orders over £25.
- A 365-day returns policy with provided return labels for complete peace of mind.
Protect yourself with gear that’s been rigorously tested. Visit Moto Central or explore our collection online to discover the best in motorcycle safety.
