Essential Gear for New Motorcycle Riders: Stay Safe on the Road
As a new motorcycle rider, it's vital to prioritize your safety and invest in essential gear that will protect you during your rides. Proper gear provides physical protection and enhances your overall riding experience. In this article, we will explore the essential gear items for new riders, emphasizing the importance of each one.
Note: This is covered in depth for MTC Rider Academy Members in the Basic SMART Rider e-Course
1. Quality Helmet: Safeguard Your Head
- A well-fitted helmet is the most crucial piece of gear for any motorcycle rider.
- It protects your head from potential injuries and reduces the risk of traumatic brain injuries.
- Look for helmets that meet safety standards, such as DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) certification.
2. Sturdy and Non-Slip Gloves: Enhance Grip and Protection
- Gloves provide a secure grip on the handlebars, enhancing your control over the motorcycle.
- They protect your hands from abrasions, impacts, and weather conditions.
- Opt for gloves specifically designed for motorcycle riding, with features like reinforced knuckles and non-slip palms for added protection and grip.
- If you need some motorcycle gear, check out Revzilla's Beginner Gear List
3. Durable Jacket with Padding and Armor: Safety First
- A sturdy motorcycle jacket with padding and armor serves as a protective shield for your upper body.
- It absorbs impact and minimizes injuries in case of accidents or falls.
- Look for abrasion-resistant leather or textile jackets with built-in armor at critical areas such as elbows, shoulders, and back.
4. Riding Boots with Ankle Support: Keep Your Feet Protected
- Proper footwear is essential for riding, and boots specifically designed for motorcycles offer optimal protection.
- Boots with ankle support minimize the risk of sprains or fractures during an accident.
- Look for boots with non-slip soles, sturdy construction, and ankle protection to ensure safety and comfort.
5. Protective Pants: Safeguard Your Legs
- Protective pants, such as riding jeans or pants with built-in armor, offer crucial protection for your lower body.
- They protect against abrasions, cuts, and impact injuries in case of falls or accidents.
- Look for durable pants with integrated armor at the knees and hips for enhanced safety.
As a new motorcycle rider, never compromise on safety. Investing in essential gear is fundamental to ensuring a safe and enjoyable riding experience. Remember, a quality helmet, sturdy gloves, a durable jacket with padding, riding boots with ankle support, and protective pants are all essential gear items that protect your head, hands, upper body, feet, and legs. Prioritize your safety by equipping yourself with the right gear and riding with confidence on the open road.
1 comment
You should do an article similar to this for hard to find sizes. In my case, specifically tall sizes. To be specific, I am 6’7" and ride. I have been able to find jacket sizes to fit my monkey arms, and shoes to fit my larger feet. But I have spoken with some of my regular gear shops and local dealers, and it seems that every pant manufacturer thinks that 33" or 34" inseams are “tall”. I’m a 37".
I like to ride geared up – armored jacket, gloves, helmet, casual riding boots – even around town or for grocery runs, but it’s difficult for some riders to find the right gear. What if you can’t find a slim jacket with long sleeves to fit your arm type? What do you do when over pants for rain or armored jeans for casual riding fit like capris? What if you don’t want to spend thousands on a jacket and pants custom made for your body? What are the options? I think an article or video dealing with this type of situation could be useful.