Motorcycle Gear You Shouldn't Leave Home Without

Whether you are a motorcycle newbie or a seasoned rider, going on a short jaunt or a long road trip, you must ensure you have all the safety essentials. These invaluable items protect and keep you looking stylish while on the open road.

Have you heard of the acronym ATGATT—all the gear, all the time? 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—but do not 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 label (with the model, size, and date 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. Ensure that your eye protection does not have scratches, which can refract light and blur vision. Tinted glasses or shields can help avoid eye fatigue during daylight but should not be used at night. Goggles protect your eyes but not the rest of your face. Visors can 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 earplugs, but check and follow state laws that regulate ear protection.

Gloves

Trying to break a fall off your bike is a natural reaction, 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. Tightly fasten weather-appropriate gloves securely around your wrists. Sturdy gloves also can help improve your grip on the handlebars.  

Boots

Boots should have oil-resistant, rubber-based composite soles to help your feet grip the pegs. Wear boots that extend beyond your ankles to protect your shins from exhaust pipe burns and flying road debris.

Jackets, Pants, Riding Suits

Protect your upper and lower body with a one-piece riding suit or a separate jacket and pants. Bright colors are great choices. Wear clothing that is true to your size and allows ventilation. A waterproof suit can be a good idea. A dry motorcyclist is more comfortable and alert than a rider who is wet and cold.

When you add it all up, safety gear can be expensive. It is critical, so factor it 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 motorcycle safety apparel and accessories. Gear up and get a motorcycle insurance quote with Acuity today!