What are the different types of dorsal?
There's the internal back protector. The one you slip into the back pocket of your motorcycle jacket. It's quite common for manufacturers to provide a pocket for inserting a back protector, but sell it as an option.
You'll need to check that the back protector you want fits into the pocket of your motorcycle jacket, especially if you don't choose the one recommended by the manufacturer.
Then there are the shoulder straps. These are worn directly on the back, with straps for a perfect fit. They also usually include a waist belt. Their protective surface area is greater than that of the internal back protector. Often used on the track, they can be slipped into a leather motorcycle suit. Some models even protect the lumbar vertebrae.
If you ride off-road, you'll probably want extra protection. You can opt for a protective vest or a bib. The vest is the most complete, with protection for the forearms, elbows, shoulders, back and chest. It's often worn under a very light jacket or cross jersey. If you find that the vest is too protective, you can opt for the chest protector.
Comfort and protection
The materials used in recent years have evolved considerably. We've gone from fairly rigid shells to soft, comfortable materials that harden on impact. The best-known of these is D3O. The modern biker is lucky.
Back protection levels have also evolved.
Standards
Like all PPE, they are standardized according to a homologation rule. Motorcycle backpacks and protective vests must comply with European standard EN 1621-2. The equipment has been tested on a number of different criteria: impact resistance, of course, but also abrasion and tear resistance. The lower the residual value after impact, the more effective the protection. This results in 2 levels of certification:
- Level 1, the average residual force after impact must be less than 18 kN, for a maximum impact of 24 kN
- Level 2, the average residual force after impact must be less than 9 kN, for a maximum impact of 12 kN.
The label on your motorcycle back protector will feature a logo with a biker on a motorcycle, together with the EN 1621-2 standard, protection level 1 or 2 and the protected area on the back:
- B for the back
- BL for the back and lumbar region