Safety first when you ride a Motorcycle

Beginning riders often have no clue as to what else they need to buy after they have purchased their first motorcycle. It turns out that the list of motorcycle gear is quite long.

Here is some essential motorcycle gear that you need to have with you as you ride.

Clothing

 

-Helmet

Helmets are very controversial among experienced riders. Some don’t want the government requiring them to be worn. Take my advice, while you are learning, always wear a helmet. I prefer a full-face helmet and never go anywhere without one. It’s also great for keeping the bugs out of your teeth and the rain out of your eyes.

-Leather Motorcycle Jacket

Don’t buy just any leather jacket. Motorcycle jackets are not normally sold in regular stores. Check out local motorcycle dealers, the motorcycle magazines, and the Internet. Get a good quality jacket with vents front and back that will allow air to circulate in the summer. Brands like Hein Gericke, Aerostich, Joe Rocket, and Roadgear come to mind. In recent years, many riders are switching to lighter weight textile jackets with padding in strategic areas. These are great and I have one myself but the leather jacket, although heavier and hotter, still protects the best.

-Jeans

It goes without saying that most riders wear jeans. Some may want armored jeans for more protection. Those you see wearing shorts, T-shirts, and sneakers are not to be emulated unless you like sliding your skin across the asphalt at 60 mph.

-Riding Pants

Your best bet is a pair of heavy leather chaps or leather pants. The chaps are nice because they are easy to put on over your jeans and remove when you get to your destination.

-Gloves

Don’t ride without gloves. Select a lightweight pair for summer and a heavy pair for cold weather riding.

-Boots

I prefer full length leather boots with no laces. Laces can easily cause your foot to be immobilized just as you want to put it down to stop. Be sure that the boots have rubber soles and heels to grip the road when you stop.

-Socks

Wear long socks that extend higher than the boots and won’t ride down.

-Rainsuit

These come in one-piece and two-piece versions. Both will keep you dry when it rains. If you do any serious riding, you will encounter rain. Be prepared.

-Riding Suits

Save these till later. They can be expensive.

-Leather Triangle

This fits around your neck to protect it and eliminate drafts.

-Balaclava

This is a silk-thin head cover that keeps you warm during winter rides.

 

Survival Equipment

 

Roadside Assistance Plan

Flat Kit

First Aid Kit

Water Bottle

Reflective Vest-This is highly visible and helps others to see you.

Ear Plugs-Most riders develop hearing problems especially if they ride with no windshield and a minimal helmet. Ear plugs are cheap, easy to use, and will save your hearing.

Heated Clothing-If you expect to ride in the winter or at high altitude, you must be prepared for cold temperatures. I always carry an electric vest and electric gloves that are connected to the battery through an adjustable temperature control.