Most people getting their first motorcycle prioritize their bike above the rest of the gear that they need. However, you can’t go out and hit the road safely with just a motorcycle.
You need to protect yourself in case there’s a crash since your motorcycle will offer almost no protection against injuries in the event of a collision. Thankfully, motorcycle gear has never been more effective than it is right now. What do you need to keep yourself safe while out on the open road?
A Department of Transportation approved helmet
Motorcycle helmets come in many different styles. From vintage half-shell designs to modern full-coverage helmets with built-in face protection, there will be a style that speaks to your personal aesthetic.
Deciding on the general appearance that you like is important, but it is far more important to make sure that the helmet has had proper safety testing. Certification by the Department of Transportation lets you know that this helmet will actually do its job. It’s also very important to make sure the helmet fits properly and does not move around on your head.
Gear to protect the rest of your body
Brain injuries are responsible for a lot of motorcycle fatalities, but not all crashes result in death. Some of them just cause terrible physical injuries, like broken bones and road rash. You will want riding clothing that includes good boots, gloves, pants, and a jacket.
You want to cover as much of your skin as possible. Traditional motorcycle gear is usually leather, but there are modern synthetic materials that are as strong if not stronger than leather for pants and jackets. Good gloves and boots will also help ensure that even in unexpected weather, you can safely put your feet down at an intersection and maintain your grip on the handlebars.
Gear that helps make you more visible
Many bikers love the all-black look. However, while black leather may be attractive, it isn’t highly visible to other drivers. One of the biggest causes of motorcycle crashes is people in bigger vehicles failing to notice the motorcycle near them. Investing year that features bright colors, reflective strips or even embedded LED lights powered by batteries can possibly catch the eye of a driver and save your life.
Having the right gear could help you avoid a crash and will also keep you safer if you do experience a motorcycle wreck.
