So many of us dream of owning a motorcycle. Whether you want to buy it for your everyday vehicle or you want to head away touring, there are so many reasons to buy your dream motorcycle. However, many people underestimate the importance of gear they also need to buy along with it. You need to make sure you are buying the right gear for you. Here is how to choose the right motorcycle gear for your riding.
Helmet Types
The helmet is probably the most important piece of gear that you will invest in. However, it is not enough to just buy any helmet. One of the first decisions you need to make is what type of helmet you want.
Most people opt for either a full face or open face helmet.
The full face is considered to be one of the safest types of helmet due to its chin bar. The open face helmet is popular among tourers as it allows the rider to feel the wind on their face.
However, you are less protected than you would be with a full face helmet, especially from the elements and anything on the road. Investing in a helmet with a good visor will be key here.
If you want to mix your day-riding with off-roading adventures, you should consider investing in a dual-sport helmet. These are a great meeting point between the two styles and they could be just what you need if you want to dabble in both types of riding.
Helmet Fit
Choosing the right style of helmet for you is only half the problem. You also need to make sure that you find one that fits you perfectly. The better a helmet fits, the better it will be able to protect your head.
Never buy a helmet without testing it properly first. You should be able to wear it for several minutes to check that it is comfortable to wear. If it becomes too heavy after just a few minutes, you will know that you would never be able to wear it for several hours of riding.
You also need to make sure that the helmet fits well. The chin strap should be tight but you should still be able to get two fingers between it and your chin. The helmet itself should fit well against in your head. You should feel that it is overly tight, but you should also not feel any spaces around your head. When you move your head, the helmet should not swing or move more than your range of movement.
Gloves
If you were to come off your bike, you would instinctively fling out your hands to protect yourself. Gloves might be key to protecting your hands in this scenario. The right pair of gloves will also help you to remain comfortable when on the motorcycle for long periods of time.
The best motorcycle gloves will have special features to protect your hands in a crash like handled knuckles and extra layering. They need to fit properly so you do not lose any motor control you need when operating the bike while still staying on to keep your hands safe. From full gauntlets to battery-powered heated gloves to keep you warm on chilly days, there are many styles to choose from.
Jacket
Many motorcycle jackets are made from leather. Biker jackets need to be tough but flexible. They also might need to be waterproof or weather resistant. Leather jackets fit all of these requirements. Try to find one with an enforced back, shoulders, and elbows to further protect you in the event of a crash.
Trousers
Are you guilty of jumping on your motorcycle in whatever trousers you might have on? This is dangerous; you need to have proper motorcycle trousers on just as you wear the other gear. If you are going to be commuting on your bike, you can easily find a pair of overpants that will fit over your regular trousers comfortably.
For comfort, cruiser trousers will always be best as they are roomy and can be adjusted at the waist. You can even find motorcycle jeans that have reinforced panels and higher-quality stitching, though these won’t offer the same level of protection as proper riding trousers.
When it comes to materials, leather is still one of the best options for motorcycle trousers. You can find plenty of styles that have been reinforced with armour to protect you in the event of crashes. For other options, you might want to consider a strong synthetic material like Kevlar.
Boots
Last, but certainly not least, you need to make sure that your boots fit well. The right motorcycle boot will protect your vulnerable feet and ankles while you ride. One of the best places to start is the sole itself. You need a good grip to help you control the bike. You also need something with ankle support.
The great thing about boots is how customisable they are. You pick up a pair of traditional biker boots to complete your gear, or you could opt for a pair that will not look out of place in the office. Make sure they fit well and don’t neglect how they do up. Laces and hooks are the most common, though they each have their own advantages and disadvantages.
A common saying in the motorcycle world is “Dress for the slide, not the ride”. The gear you buy will be crucial in protecting you during a crash. Always make sure you buy top-quality gear that fits you perfectly. It could save your life.
American Legend Rider
https://americanlegendrider.com/