The gear you wear when riding your motorcycle can not only make your ride more enjoyable, it can decrease your risk of injury or even death if you crash. Your gear also protects you from the elements and increases your visibility to other motorists. When making a purchase, choose gear that fits comfortably and is suitable for the riding you do most often.
Helmets
Head injuries are the leading cause of death from motorcycle accidents; for this reason, most states require bikers to wear helmets. Helmets are available in different styles, with some offering full-face protection. In 2010, J.D. Power and Associates conducted a helmet satisfaction study. Aria helmets received top honors, rated "among the best" in overall satisfaction, ventilation and styling, and "better than most" for their faceshields. The Scorpion EXO-400 Rebel helmet is a top-rated helmet at the Motorcycle Superstore website, with an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 113 reviews, while the Shoei RF-1100 helmet has an average of 5 out of 5 stars based on 36 reviews.
Clothing
Leather clothing for bikers is iconic for a reason; it offers increased protection during an accident. If leather isn't your style, you can choose other protective materials. The Motorcycle-Intelligence website praises the Cycleport Air Mesh Kevlar Jacket for its maximum protection from injury, light weight and comfort in warm weather. With an average of 5 out of 5 stars based on 242 reviews, the Tour Master Transition Series 2 Jacket is a best choice at the Motorcycle Superstore website. For casual riding, Bart Madson of Motorcycle USA recommends Shift Racing's Torque Jeans, which are made from denim strategically reinforced with Kevlar and are long enough to cover the ankles in a bent-knee riding position.
Gloves
If you have small hands or are a woman, finding biker gloves that fit can be a challenge. Fortunately, Shift Racing makes a line of gloves for women that might fit the bill. The gloves are made of leather, which provides superior protection to textiles, padded and often armored for increased protection. Their Dynasty women's glove features an Airprene wrist cuff perforated to let your skin breathe. The Best Beginner Motorcycles website recommends these gloves, noting that it is a good idea to break them in before any long rides.
Boots
If you're biking, forget wearing anything on your feet except boots. You need protection that covers the ankle and a quality, slip-resistant sole for traction. Racing or sports boots are good for racing, while the more casual rider might prefer touring boots. Galt's Motorcycle Boot Reviews and Buying Guide recommends boots that are made of leather, are water-resistant, and fasten without laces. They recommend the Tour Master/Cortech T/M Solution WP Boot, TCX Oxtar racing boots and Harley-Davidson boots. With 182 reviews and a 5-star rating, Shift Racing Fuel Street shoes take top honors at the Motorcycle Superstore website.
References
- J. D. Power and Associates: 2010 Motorcycle Helmet Satisfaction Study
- Motorcycle Superstore: Top-Rated Street Products
- Motorcycle-Intelligence.com: Kevlar Motorcycle Jacket Review, Part I
- Motorcycle USA.com; Shift Racing Torque Jeans; Bart Madson; November 23, 2010
- Best Beginner Motorcycles: Shift Racing Womens Dynasty Glove Review
- Galt: Motorcycle Boot Reviews and Buying Guide
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