ACC today announced the launch of a world-first rating system for motorcycle clothing known as MotoCAP.
“The Motorcycle Clothing Assessment Programme (MotoCAP) is the first of its kind, and will give the motorcycle community more information when they are making choices about the clothing they wear when riding,” says Motorcycle Programme Manager, David Keilty.
Key Points:
· MotoCAP will give clothing two separate star ratings – one for protection and one for comfort
· MotoCAP has involved stakeholders from across Australia and New Zealand working together to develop the system, the first in the world of its kind.
“Motorcycle and scooter riders have very little protection other than their helmet and their clothing when involved in a crash,” advises Keilty, who steers the Ride Forever programme, an ACC initiative aimed at reducing motorcycle crashes and injuries.
“This is why we at Ride Forever joined together with road safety agencies around Australia and Deakin University to develop the system and test the gear.”
Mr Keilty said the protection star rating considers performance in abrasion resistance, seam strength and impact protection, while the comfort rating is based on how comfortable the clothing is in New Zealand and Australian climatic conditions.
Last year in New Zealand 45 motorcyclists lost their life on the road and 7,372 motorcyclists received treatment and support from ACC. The total cost of motorcycle-related claims was more than $94 million.
According to Mr Keilty, the development of MotoCAP means riders will now have more information about their choice of protective gear, including being able to balance the sometimes conflicting needs of personal protection and comfort.
For more information on MotoCAP ratings and the scheme visit:
www.motocap.com.au
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