While most newbie motorcyclists look for style when purchasing a biking gear, it is important to remember that there’s something more important at stake – your safety. When you are out on the roads you are exposed to the possibility of crashing, negligent drivers, bad weather, and so on. The right gear helps promote motorcycle safety.
For beginners, it can be a daunting task to identify the right kind of biking attire which would be best suited for their needs. Here’s a guide giving you a quick glimpse of some indispensable gear for motorcycle safety.
1. Helmets
You can find two kinds of helmets in the market, the full-face helmet and the cap-skull helmet. While skull-cap helmets do offer some protection, it is always advisable to opt for a full-face helmet that covers your whole head and face.
In America, the DOT sticker is indicative of whether a helmet is safe for the road or not. While in the European Union, the standard for motorcycle safety is an ECE 22.05 rating.
Always opt for helmets with visors. They keep dirt, debris, and the wind out of your face, and help you ride with focus and comfort.
2. Jackets
Leather jackets are synonymous with motorcycles, especially in popular culture. However, they have a more significant role to play than just being a fashion accessory.
Motorcycle jackets now come woven with Kevlar or ballistic nylon. They lower the force of impact in the event of a crash. Sometimes, the jackets contain carbon fiber elbow, shoulder, and forearm padding that offer extra protection.
Always choose a jacket that aims to prevent injury. Remember even if the weather is pleasant outside, it can get very cold when you’re zipping down the freeway at 90mph. Choose a jacket that offers good insulation and is waterproof.
Jackets are also responsible for your visibility on the roads. It is better to opt for brightly-colored gear. Adding reflective strips to the jacket is also a good idea for motorcycle safety.
3. Pants
Just like jackets – visibility, warmth, and protection are key factors when it comes to biker pants. Choose pants that are bright, conspicuous, and lined for warmth. The good ones come with carbon fiber pads for knees and shins. Nowadays, you get pants with a blend of Kevlar and denim that offer style as well as substance.
4. Gloves
Another important accessory for motorcycle safety is the gloves. They not just provide a snug grip while riding, they also prevent insects, pebbles, and other debris from hitting your hands while you’re driving at high speeds. When you are buying gloves, look for ones that provide impact protection, especially around the knuckles and the back of your hands. It is important to choose gloves that are waterproof, abrasion-resistant, and comfortable.
5. Boots
Since your riding at very high speeds, the wrong footwear can be catastrophic to motorcycle safety. Wearing good quality leather boots with traction-resistant soles is essential. They prevent your feet from getting shredded in case of a crash and also prevent skidding on slick roads.
Look for boots with reinforcements in the toes and heel area; they offer more protection. Additionally, laces should be tucked away or altogether replaced with velcro straps.
When it comes to motorcycle safety gear always remember the acronym ATGATT – All The Gear All The Time. It essentially means that the safest course of action is to go on the roads armored with every last piece of protective gear, always and without exception. After all, it is better to be safe than sorry.