Motorcycle equipment
Mandatory and recommended protective equipment for motorcycles, including helmet requirements, CE standards, and clothing for visibility.
Helmet is mandatory
Helmet is the only protective gear that is legally required for motorcyclists and passengers in Norway. The helmet must be CE-approved according to the ECE 22.05 standard or the newer ECE 22.06.
| Helmet type | Protection | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Full-face helmet | Head, face, and jaw | All types of riding |
| Flip-up helmet | Like full-face when closed | City riding and long trips |
| Open helmet (jet) | Head, but not face | Lower speeds |
Check that the helmet fits snugly without pinching and that the straps are correctly fastened. Replace the helmet after a heavy impact or every five years.
Protective clothing with CE marking
Although protective clothing beyond the helmet is not legally required, proper equipment significantly reduces the extent of injury.| Equipment | CE Standard | Protects | | — | — | — | | Motorcycle jacket | EN 17092 | Upper body, elbows, shoulders | | Motorcycle pants | EN 17092 | Knees, hips, shins | | Gloves | EN 13594 | Hands and wrists | | Motorcycle boots | EN 13634 | Ankles and feet | | Back protector | EN 1621-2 | Spine |
Choose clothing with integrated protectors and material that resists abrasion, such as leather or reinforced textiles.
Visibility and Reflectivity
Motorcycle riders are hard to spot in traffic. Increase visibility with:
- Reflective vest or clothing in bright colors.
- Reflective details on helmet, jacket, and bags.
- Driving lights that are always on.
Good visibility is especially important in darkness and bad weather. Read more about motorcycling in traffic for positioning and visibility advice.
Equipment Maintenance
Inspect the protective equipment regularly. Worn material provides poorer protection. Follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions to preserve the protective properties.
Prepare for the theory test with free theory test and read about braking on a motorcycle .
Read next
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Motorcycle in traffic
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