Motorcycle Apparel 101

 

As summer draws slowly closer, and the days get longer and hotter, I’ve been starting to see more and more bikes coming out from hibernation, which is awesome! The only thing that really scares me is that their riders seem to be oblivious of the dangers they face on our busy roads, wearing only casual clothing that has absolutely no safety rating. Sorry, this one is going to be a bit mundane, but I feel it’s a subject worth taking the time to talk about.

 

 

I have had the misfortune of coming off my bike, and it’s not much fun. My worst accident happened at the track, where proper protective gear is compulsory, and I’m glad I had good gear on at the time. Nothing is worse than the feeling you have in the instant you know it’s all gone pear shaped. Fixing a broken bike hurts your wallet, and your pride. But far worse can be the physical injuries sustained in the accident if you haven’t invested in good riding gear. In the last week alone, I’ve seen a vast majority of more riders in casual clothing than in safety rated riding gear, and every single time I wince at the potential for harm.

 

 

The rules only state you have to wear a helmet when operating a motorcycle, but I wouldn’t leave the garage without at least a leather (or approved textile) jacket, kevlar jeans, proper gloves, and my over-ankle “casual” riding boots. If I’m planning on going any more than 50 km/h, I’ll be wearing my leather pants and full-length motorcycle boots as well. One quote that I heard years ago that has always stuck with me is this: “I’d rather sweat than bleed”. Yes, the days are getting hotter now, and putting on a heavy leather set of jacket and pants can make you break out in sweat before you even get on your bike. But please, guys and girls, consider the alternative. There have been a LOT of motorcycle accidents in the news over the last couple of weeks, I don’t want any of our readers to become the next statistic.

 

 

Think about it for a second. All it takes is for someone trying to occupy the same piece of road that you are, and you come off second best. Motorbike vs anything, the bike loses. So what happens? One of two things, generally: either you slide off behind your bike, or you go over the handlebars and slide in front of your bike. Highsides hurt a lot more. But in either case, sliding on rough tarmac isn’t good for bare skin. Leather holds up well, as does some of the good grade textile gear. Full length boots will help protect your ankles from being twisted to unhealthy angles. Safety rated gloves will do the same for your hands, as well as preventing gravel rash when you inevitably put them out in front of you to break your fall. And of course, a good quality helmet stops your brain from bashing around inside your skull. FYI: helmets generally only last for about 5 years before they are considered due for replacement, due to their construction and natural fatiguing process.

 

 

So next time you head out on your two-wheeled beastie, whether it’s a brand new Harley Davidson or your LAMS approved 250, please heed this advice and suit up in some good quality gear. Most bike shops have sales and discounts regularly, if price is a factor, or go hunting on the internet for deals. Talk to people with experience, get to know the better brands, find what fits you properly, and use it. Honestly, other bikers will compliment you on your awesome new gear to go with your shiny bike! And no, it doesn’t matter if you want your gear to match the color scheme of your bike…! Then, when I see you on the road looking like you’re ready for the racetrack, or wearing good full textile gear, I’ll give you a huge wave and a knowing smile, because I’ll be suffering the heat as well!

 

– Scott

 

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