Safety is of prime importance when it comes to hitting the road with your motorbike. If you are new to the motorcycling world, it pays to know exactly what protective gear you need and how it serves to keep you as safe as you can be. Read ahead and learn about the essential pieces you need and some of the many advantages they offer.

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Helmets

Though it is obvious that you will need a good, solid helmet to protect your noggin, you have to make sure that you get the right kind to suit your riding needs. The helmets of today have evolved to be highly protective in construction. The materials used are layered in specific densities to maximize protection from the impact of possible collisions. There is a shell of tough material, usually a form of plastic, that is used for the exterior, and this is designed to prevent piercing and to absorb some of the energy from impact. The most protective helmets also have a visor, which can protect your eyes. You can be quite sure that whatever helmet you buy will be extremely safe, but the critical factor in your safety comes from the fit. You need a helmet that fits snugly but is also comfortable. Be sure to check that it has been manufactured to at least the minimal safety standards.

Gloves

Why gloves are so important for safety is simply down to instincts. When you fall, you automatically try to break the fall with your hands. So it is important to have at least one pair of specially designed motorbike gloves. Gloves of high quality have padding for the palms and tough materials like Kevlar for reinforcing the knuckle and joint areas. Depending on what kind of weather you will be riding in, you may need gloves that are heavily insulated or ones that are made from breathable material for ventilation. Once again, the most critical point in selecting gloves is the fit.

Clothing

Regular clothing, even denim, will not protect your skin if you take a spill on the road. That’s why you need to have motorcycle jackets, pants, or full-on suits. These garments are specifically designed to minimize the risk of sustaining abrasion injuries in the event of a crash. Strong leather or heavy, thick materials will offer a lot of protection, but it is important to examine the clothing you buy for quality. A good set of motorcycle clothing will last more than a crash or two. Try to make sure that the items you are buying are also waterproof. After all, you can’t exactly stop in the middle of the highway and find shelter from a sudden downpour. Storm flaps and front zippers will go a long way to keep the water and snow out. The most protective motorbike clothing will be stiff and insulated but, as always, you must make sure it fits snugly and offers proper coverage.

These are the essentials that you should have and wear on every bike ride. In addition, make sure you have solid biker boots that offer good traction as well. This way you will be as protected as you can be on the road.