Motorcyclists have a unique set of needs. You can’t simply buy the same safety gear that works for other travelers. You need something specifically designed for your type of travel. That said, plenty of motorcycle equipment is built for every kind of rider, whether you’re a casual commuter or a hardcore racer.
The global motorcycle accessories market is vast, and protective gears comprise the top-selling category. They account for around 17% of the total market revenue. That’s because motorcyclists understand the importance of safety and are ready to implement the measures to ensure a safe ride.
It’s important to stay safe on two wheels, so here are some essential items to add to your next shopping list:
Helmets: Your Ultimate Guardian
Your helmet is the most essential piece of equipment. It should be DOT and certified, meeting safety, comfort, and durability standards. The helmet should fit snugly but not too tightly. You want to move your head around freely without feeling like a vice grip is squeezing you.
It should also have a chin strap secured under your chin. Ensure that it’s buckled tightly enough to prevent it from coming off quickly in case of an impact or crash. That’s what makes it one of the most essential safety gear. In fact, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that helmets decrease the risk of head injury by 69%.
Helmets are expensive, and they need to be replaced every five years. Make sure yours is up-to-date before hitting the road again this summer season.
Protective Riding Jackets and Pants
Let’s face it: riding a motorcycle is an inherently dangerous sport, and no amount of protective gear can guarantee you’ll never be hurt while riding. However, wearing the proper riding gear is one of the best ways to minimize your risk of injury or death.
Safety jackets are designed to absorb impact energy during a crash by spreading the force over a wider area than traditional clothing. For example, if someone wearing jeans falls off their bike at 30 mph, their thighs will take most of that impact force.
This is because they land on their side, absorbing the majority of the impact. However, if they wore jeans and a jacket made from Kevlar fibers, both sides of their body would be protected from injuries.
Riding pants protect riders from injuries caused by blunt objects such as road debris. They also help keep them warm when temperatures drop below freezing point during winter. Hence, the quality and material of the riding pants matter a lot.
Guardian Bells
If you’re a motorcyclist, knowing the equipment that can help keep you safe is essential. You might wonder what guardian bells will do for your safety? Well, the legends say guardian bells can mystically protect you while you are on the road.
According to American Legend Rider, when motorcycle accident survivors were asked how they cheated death, many responded that it was because of the guardian bells. According to legend, these tiny bells are associated with otherworldly intercession. It is this intercession that keeps the motorcyclists safe.
Another reason guardian bells save motorcyclists is the faith and love that they bring. Many non-riders buy guardian bells for motorcycles for their family members and friends because they represent love.
Whether motorcyclists are saved because of some mystical intercession for the love these tiny bells represent can’t be said. However, hanging these guardian bells on your motorcycle surely won’t cause any harm.
Protective Gloves
Protective gloves are crucial motorcycle equipment for maximum protection while riding. Here’s why they are important:
- Hand and wrist protection: Motorcycle gloves are designed to protect your hands and wrists in case of an accident. In the event of a fall or collision, your hands are often the first point of contact with the ground. Without proper protection, they can be seriously injured.
- Abrasion resistance: Good-quality motorcycle gloves are made from highly abrasion-resistant materials. If you slide on the road surface during a fall, the gloves will help prevent road rash. This can significantly reduce the risk of severe hand injuries.
- Impact protection: Many motorcycle gloves have built-in armor or padding on the knuckles and other vulnerable areas. This armor helps absorb and distribute the impact force in case of a collision, reducing the risk of fractures and other injuries.
- Weather protection: Motorcycle gloves also protect against the elements. They help keep your hands warm in cold weather and prevent wind chill. Additionally, they shield your hands from rain, which can help you maintain better control over the bike.
- Grip and control: Good gloves enhance your grip on the motorcycle’s handlebars. This is important for maintaining control over the bike, especially during sudden maneuvers or emergencies.
When selecting motorcycle gloves, consider the type of riding you do, the weather conditions you’ll encounter, and the level of protection you need. Look for gloves certified for safety standards and fit your hands well. Remember that safety gear and gloves should be essential to your riding attire to ensure you’re well-protected while enjoying your motorcycle journeys.
Sturdy Riding Boots
Sturdy riding boots are an essential piece of motorcycle safety equipment.
Here’s how they can improve safety:
- Foot and ankle protection: Sturdy riding boots are designed with reinforced materials, such as leather or synthetic materials, that protect the feet and ankles. In the event of an accident, this added protection helps prevent injuries like fractures, abrasions, and sprains to the foot and ankle.
- Impact absorption: Many riding boots have built-in padding or cushioning around the ankle, heel, and shin areas. This padding helps absorb and distribute the impact force in case of a collision or fall, reducing the risk of serious injuries.
- Abrasion resistance: Sturdy riding boots are often made from materials resistant to abrasion and tearing. This is particularly important in a slide or skid, where a rider’s feet might contact the road surface. The boots can prevent road rash and other abrasion-related injuries.
- Weather protection: Sturdy riding boots often come with waterproofing and insulation, which help protect the rider’s feet from rain, cold weather, and other environmental elements. Comfortable feet contribute to better focus and control while riding.
- Gear shifting: Motorcycle boots are designed with specific features that make operating the gear shifter on the motorcycle easier. This reduces the risk of missing shifts or fumbling while changing gears, which can impact control.
Body Armor: Extra Layer of Defense
Body armor is a crucial piece of gear for anyone who rides. Data shows that it reduces the risk of open wound injuries to the torso by 63%. In fact, the extra layer of defense can make the difference between life and death, whether you’re riding on the street or off-road. The body armor slows down the impact of the collision so that it does not reach the body.
Many different types of body armor are available today, so choosing one that fits your needs is essential. When choosing your motorcycle body armor, look for these features:
- A material that will resist both blunt force trauma (bashes) and sharp objects like knives or glass
- A comfortable fit that doesn’t restrict movement
- A high level of protection from impact injuries
Conclusion
It’s not just about the gear you wear; it’s also about the technology you use. There are many ways to stay safe on your motorcycle, from protective gear to guardian bells. And if all else fails? Well, at least there are these nifty little things called helmets. Safety is paramount on the road, not only for you but also for others. So, next time you go on a ride, ensure that you use all the protective equipment for utmost safety.
