Standards in cycling

All uvex products meet or exceed the respective safety regulations of the CE guideline 89/686/EEC for personal protection equipment (PPE).

Our products are always tested according to the latest standards and the toughest procedures. In addition to constant internal testing, all products requiring certification are tested at well-known testing institutes such as the Technical Control Board [TÜV].

Bike helmets

All uvex bike helmets are tested according to standard number EN 1078.

  • Shock absorption: the damping characteristics of the helmet are tested during a simulated fall. The test is done at -20°C and +50°C. In addition to a flat impact surface, impact on a replicated curb stone edge is also tested.
  • Strap strength: strap and lock must not break, open or tear during the test (jerky stress).
  • Stability of the helmet on the head: when the helmet is pulled jerkily, it must not leave the test head.

Cycling glasses

All uvex cycling and sports glasses are tested according to standard number EN 1836.

  • Determining the degree of light transmission (translucence) in the visible range, then classification into filter categories:
    0 = 80-100%
    1 = 43-80%
    2 = 18-43%
    3 = 8-18%
    4 = 3-8% (not permitted for road traffic)
  • UV protection: the glasses are subject to strict requirements for protection against UV radiation.
  • Signal light recognition: the colors ‘red’, ‘yellow’, ‘green’ and ‘blue’ must be clearly recognisable if the glasses are to be suitable for road use.
  • Mechanical strength of the lenses: the lenses are tested as to their mechanical strength (resistance to breaking). In addition, uvex carries out a firing test for the standard requirement. When a steel ball (6 mm in diameter) is fired at them with an impact velocity of 162 km/h (45 m/s), the lenses must not break or be penetrated.
  • Optical quality: the glasses must not have any distorting effect.

To some extent, other standards also apply outside the EU (e.g., ASTM, CPSC). However, these requirements are generally similar to the European standards. Where it is relevant, uvex products are also tested and certified according to the corresponding foreign standards.