ECE22-06 Helmet Standard Sets New Safety Benchmark

Europe’s ECE22-06 motorcycle helmet standard introduces tougher impact tests, rotational force assessments, and stricter visor and accessory requirements, raising safety levels beyond the long-standing ECE22-05.

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A major shift in motorcycle helmet safety came into effect on January 1, 2021, with the introduction of the ECE22-06 homologation standard across Europe and other adopting countries. Replacing the long-standing ECE22-05 after nearly two decades, this new regulation demands tougher, more comprehensive testing to ensure higher levels of protection for riders.

Transition Timeline and Market Availability

The new standard officially took effect in 2021, but helmet manufacturers continued producing ECE22-05–certified models until June 2023. From July 1, 2023, manufacturers stopped producing ECE22-05 helmets, although retailers still sell existing stock. Riders may continue using ECE22-05 helmets without restriction because helmets have no “expiry date,” as long as they remain in good condition.

Stricter and More Comprehensive Impact Testing

ECE22-06 significantly raises the safety benchmark with expanded impact assessments.

• More Test Points: Helmets are now tested at 18 different locations on the shell (compared to just five under ECE22-05), including the chin guard for full-face designs. This ensures that protection is consistent across the entire surface, regardless of where an impact occurs.
• Multiple Impact Speeds: Instead of a single test speed, helmets must now withstand impacts at 6 m/s, 7.5 m/s, and 8.2 m/s, simulating both low-speed knocks and high-speed crashes. This helps prevent helmets from being overly rigid and ensures effective energy absorption across a wider range of scenarios.
• Visor Penetration: A 6 mm steel ball is fired at the visor at 80 m/s to confirm that it can resist penetration without shattering.

Addressing Real-World Crash Dynamics

For the first time, the standard includes oblique impact testing to measure rotational acceleration, a key factor in serious brain injuries. Using advanced sensors and accelerometers, these tests replicate angled impacts where the helmet slides or twists on contact, helping manufacturers design shells and liners that reduce rotational forces on the brain.

Enhanced Visibility and Optical Requirements

ECE22-06 also tightens rules on the field of vision and visor quality. The helmet’s eye port must meet minimum width requirements to guarantee adequate peripheral vision. Both primary and sun visors undergo testing for optical distortion, scratch resistance, and light refraction, ensuring clearer, safer visibility in varying light conditions.

Modular Helmet Certification and Accessory Compliance

The new regulation refines testing for P/J homologation on modular (flip-up) helmets. To earn dual approval for both open-face and full-face use, a helmet must pass the respective impact tests in both configurations.

Additionally, testers must approve integrated communication systems and other accessories as part of the helmet’s homologation. Riders can no longer freely add aftermarket devices that a specific helmet model has not validated, so they must use only accessories the manufacturer authorises.

A Safer Future for Riders

ECE22-06 represents a major leap forward in rider protection. With more impact points, a wider range of speeds, rotational force testing, and stricter accessory regulations, helmets meeting this standard offer a higher level of safety than ever before.

While ECE22-05 helmets remain legal to use, riders upgrading to ECE22-06–certified gear benefit from the most advanced testing protocols currently available, an investment that could make all the difference in a crash.