Motorcycle Gear You Should Not Leave Home Without

Whether you are a motorcycle newbie or a seasoned rider, going on a short jaunt or a long road trip, you need to make sure you have all the safety essentials. These important items can provide protection and also keep you looking stylish while you are out on the open road.

Perhaps you have heard of the acronym ATGATT—all the gear, all the time. Doesn’t that just roll off the tongue? Since your motorcycle gear is the only thing protecting you from the road in an accident, prepare for your next ride, and every ride, with the following motorcycle safety gear.

Helmet

Call it what you want—brain bucket, dome, lid—just don’t ride without it. Make sure your helmet:

• Is DOT approved. (Look for a sticker on the back of the helmet with the letters DOT to be sure.)
• Has not been in an accident.
• Includes the manufacturer’s label (with the manufacturer’s name, model, size, month and year of manufacture) and has not passed its expiration. 
• Fits tightly, but does not pinch or hurt pressure points.

Eye Protection

Keep the wind, insects, and road debris at bay with goggles, glasses, or a helmet visor. No matter what eye protection you choose, make sure it doesn’t have scratches, which can refract light and blur your vision. Tinted glasses or shields can help avoid eye fatigue during daylight, but only clear lenses should be worn at night. Goggles protect eyes, but not the rest of your face. Visors reduce face injuries.

Ear Protection

Even if you have a quiet motorcycle and a full-face helmet, repeated exposure to wind and loud noise at highway speeds can cause permanent hearing damage. Consider wearing ear plugs, but be sure to check and follow state laws that regulate ear protection.

Gloves

It is a natural reaction to try to break a fall off your bike, so your hands and wrists are particularly vulnerable in a motorcycle crash. Protect your palms, knuckles, and fingers from cuts, bruises, and abrasions with sturdy, well-padded gloves that extend past your wrist. Gloves should be fastened tightly and securely around your wrists and be appropriate for the weather. Sturdy gloves also help improve your grip on the handlebars.  

Boots

Boots should have oil-resistant, rubber-based composite soles. This combination provides a strong grip to help keep your feet on the pegs. To protect your shins from exhaust pipe burns and flying road debris, wear boots that extend beyond your ankle.

Jackets, Pants, Riding Suits

Protect your upper and lower body with either a one-piece riding suit or separate jacket and pants. Bright, highly visible colors are great choices. Wear clothing that is true to your size and allows ventilation. It’s also a good idea to have a waterproof suit in your wardrobe. A dry motorcyclist will be more comfortable and alert than a rider who is wet and cold!

When you add it all up, motorcycle safety gear can be expensive, but it is important and should be factored into the cost of owning your motorcycle. Don’t forget to protect your investment with motorcycle insurance.

Acuity proudly offers motorcycle insurance, including discounts for safety classes and additional coverage for all your motorcycle safety apparel and accessories. Gear up and get a motorcycle insurance quote with Acuity today!