Essential Motorcycle Gear

Before you ever hit the road on your motorcycle, you need to make sure you’re protected. Motorcycle gear is a critical part of riding any bike, so it’s a good idea to get some essential riding gear that will make you feel safer and more comfortable. We’ve compiled a list of all the motorcycle gear you should own. If you have any questions, give us a call at Virgil Naff’s in Lynchburg, Virginia. We are proud to serve Roanoke and Charlottesville too. We’ll help you find the ideal motorcycle for your next ride!

Helmet

The first essential piece of motorcycle gear you need to own is a helmet. A helmet is the most important piece of motorcycle gear you can own since it serves as a layer of protection for your head. Keep in mind that a helmet is meant to be a safety precaution, not a fashion statement. Ensure that your helmet is accredited by a crash test rating agency and replace it about every five years.

Gloves

The next piece of motorcycle gear you should have is a pair of gloves. Your hands play a major role in riding any motorcycle, so you want a good grip at all times to maintain control. As you ride, the weather can change and compromise your ability to steer safely. The sweltering sun can cause you to sweat and make your hands slippery. Cold and harsh winds can make your hands shiver. Gloves will cancel out the effects of weather so you can maintain your grip while riding. Plus, gloves will protect your hands from scrapes if you fall.

Riding Boots

Next, you’re going to want a pair of riding boots. This is an important piece of motorcycle gear since you’ll need shoes with decent grip. Your sneakers aren’t going to cut it. Riding boots will also keep you protected from hazards like wind, rain, debris, engine heat, and more. Make sure your boots fit well. You should also break them in before heading out on a ride. Don’t forget to tuck your laces in when you ride so they don’t catch on a foot peg!

Eye Protection

Eye protection is another critical part of your motorcycle gear. If your helmet doesn’t come with built in eye protection, you should invest in some. Make sure your eye protection is compatible with your helmet. You can check out sunglasses and riding goggles that offer UV protection.

Jacket

Riding jackets are an iconic piece of motorcycle gear. This is probably because they offer protection and style. Riding jackets protect your torso and can regulate comfort levels. You’ll be protected from road rash, cold winds, and more. Leather jackets are the most popular kind of riding jacket on the market. Leather is a good protective material, but it’s not a breathable fabric. You may want to opt for a lightweight jacket instead. Find an option that fits your style but is comfortable and gives you enough range of motion.

Outerwear

One more piece of motorcycle gear to get is outerwear. It may be tempting to wear shorts and a tank top on a hot summer day. However, you’ll probably be more comfortable in more layers when riding a motorcycle. Fabric can block out the sun and limit sunburn. You can find some outerwear that blocks the heat, wicks sweat, and offers ventilation. It’s also a good idea to find something that’s waterproof in case it rains.

We hope this guide was helpful and you’re ready to get all the motorcycle gear you need! If you’re in the market for a new bike, give us a call at Virgil Naff’s in Lynchburg, Virginia. We proudly serve Roanoke and Charlottesville. We’ll get you on the road on a brand new motorcycle for your next adventure!