Motorcycle gear is a critical factor when it comes to riding, and adds a very necessary layer of safety every time you hit the open road. Keeping yourself safe, visible, and comfortable is every bit as important as the perfect bike.
Riding a motorcycle can be dangerous, and your life is often in the hands of other drivers and how they behave on the roads. Without a protective layer of steel, riders have an increased risk and need to find alternate ways to protect themselves. One of the best things that a rider has control over, besides their own driving behaviours, is the gear that they wear!
Read on for our motorcycle safety gear list for the top items that every rider should equip themselves with when they grab life by the bars! If you're all geared up, consider exploring your options for motorcycle lessons to hone your skills.
Let’s Start with the Helmet
There are many reasons why every rider should have a well-constructed, properly fitted helmet. First and foremost, wearing a helmet is the law in BC. Secondly, helmets protect one of the most important organs - your brain! A protective helmet can be the main factor in how well a rider survives an accident or collision, so it’s a worthwhile investment to make sure you’re adequately covered.
Watch for your motorcycle helmet to meet safety certification designations, such as DOT or ECE. DOT is the universal requirement for all of North America, while ECE is a similar universal requirement for Europe. Snell certifications are thought to be one of the strictest and therefore highest safety certifications.
Another reason for finding a well-made helmet is the practical and comfort applications. A full-face helmet will keep bugs and other debris out of your face and eyes. Many modern helmets now come equipped with Bluetooth, so you will have hands-free access to your phone while cruising.
Fits like a Glove
A pair of properly fitting riding gloves are another piece of vitally important equipment all riders should have. Like a helmet protects your head, gloves protect your hands and wrists. If riders are in an accident, many times their reflex is to brace with their hands and a sturdy pair of gloves will help to protect them. Gloves can be made in a variety of materials: you can find gloves that are lightweight and breathable, have built-in plastic and armor for added safety, or thick leather.
The safety reasons are compelling enough, but there are some practical and comfort reasons for a decent pair of gloves too. A comfy pair of gloves can alleviate the ache from gripping handlebars for an extensive period of time, offering a more pleasant ride. They also protect your hands against the wind, and if you find some gloves with weatherproofing they can keep you dry too!
The type of gloves you select will depend on what you’re looking for and what conditions you’ll be riding in. You may even have a few different pairs, swapping out pairs in colder, warmer, or wet weather.
Another Kind of Life Jacket
Most jackets protect you against the elements. If you ride a lot, you will probably find yourself being more cold than too hot, so a jacket is a welcome piece of gear. There are times though that it will be extremely hot, but it’s still important to wear a jacket to protect your skin. If you’re in an accident without the proper gear, the road can wreak havoc on your body.
Jackets come in a wide variety of materials and styles. Think about the conditions you plan to ride in most and go from there. Many jackets come with some combination of armor and mesh, making a piece of gear that is sturdy and breathes well. Leather jackets with a warm interior lining can be nice on cooler days. Added protection can be found in jackets that feature armor and abrasion resistant material in common impact zones.
High visibility jackets may not be the slickest or coolest jackets of the road, but the added visibility they offer new riders is invaluable to being seen by other drivers. Many jackets will often feature reflective finishes or accents to help offset style vs. function issues.
