Essential Riding Gear for Motorcycle Beginners: Safety Guide for New Riders
If you are embarking on the motorcycle journey then buying right riding gears is as much important as buying a bike. Many beginners concentrate on a motorcycle alone and ignore safety equipment. However, if injured, riding gear helps in reducing the impact or injuries, fighting the weather elements or fighting unpredictable road hazards.
Whether it is a commuter like Hero Xtreme 125R or a sports motorcycle, high-quality equipments are to be bought first.
In this post, you’ll learn what all the essential riding gear every motorcycle beginner should know and why, and how to choose the best riding gear.
Why Motorcycle Riding Gear Is Important
Purposes of motorcycle riding gear include: * Impact protection in an accident * Better grip over throttle and riding controls * Protection from weather elements, dust, and thrown stones * Visibility enhancement in the view;
The road safety experts state that in the case of a crash, serious injuries may be reduced to a great extent if proper protective clothing is worn.
1. Motorcycle Helmet (Most Important Gear)
One of the most essential riding gears of a rider is the helmet and it should be of quality
In India, helmets are supposed to meet Bureau of Indian Standards safety certification.
Types of Helmets
*Full-face helmet – This is one of the best protections for a beginner rider *Modular helmet – Flip-up design to make things convenient; *Open-face helmet – Minimum protection
Why It’s Essential
* Protects the brain and the head in the case of an accident * Protects eyes from dust, insects and strong wind Boost self-esteem and concentration (Forbes, n.d.).
It is also important to always go for a helmet that has a tight fitting and good ventilation.
2. Riding Gloves
Gloves are disregarded by many beginners, although they are very important.
During a fall, hands are the first body parts to touch the ground. Riding gloves protect the palms, knuckles, and fingers.
Benefits of Riding Gloves
* Better grip on throttle and brake * Protection against road rashes * Absorbs the vibrations which cause growing board weariness * Protects the hands against cold and wind
Knuckle protection, and reinforced palm padding are the best features to gloves.
3. Riding Jacket
A motorcycle riding jacket also protects your shoulders, elbows, and backbones.
Therefore, most modern riding jackets have CE-certified armor pieces, which helps in impact absorption.
Features to Look For
* Shoulder and elbow pads * Back protector * Mesh fabric ventilation * Reflective panels for night visibility
Riding jackets are helpful when it comes to highway riding and long rides.
4. Riding Pants
Normal jeans provide no safety when a biker crashes. The riding pants are made of abrasion resistant fabric and have protective armor.
Advantages of Riding Pants
* Protection for knees and hips * Prevent the road rash (abrasion) * Comfortable during long rides
Finally, some riders wear armored riding jeans that appear casual but offer protection.
5. Riding Boots
Regular shoes/slippers are unsafe while riding a motorcycle;
Motorcycle boots protect; * Ankles * Feet; Motorcycle boots protect: * Ankles; * Feet; * Toes;
Benefits of Riding Boots
* Better grip on gear shifter and brake; * Clothing protection against fall; * Waterproof and durable for long riding sessions
Choose boots that have anti-slip soles and which cover the ankle.
6. Reflective Gear and Visibility Accessories
Visibility is one of the very major aspects, especially while riding in the dark.
Reflective gear ensured that the cyclist was visible to other motorists.
Examples include;
* Vest fluorescent * Helmets stickers; * Reflective strips in jackets
All these small additions can do a great job decreasing the risks of any accidents.
Tips for Beginners Buying Riding Gear
Smart tips for new riders are;
✔ Safety certifications always come first ✔ Do not buy all very cheap equipment that does not provide any protection at all. Its size should be suitable; ✔ Make sure the one you choose fits your riding conditions, including the weather.
If one rides daily on city roads or highways investing in good gear will improve safety and comfort.