Motorbiking is a daring sport. At the same time, it is adventurous and can actually be a lot of fun. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular motorbiker, here are 6 clothes you should avoid and 6 you must have for an enjoyable (and safe) motorcycling experience:
5 Clothing Items Every Motorbiker Should Avoid:
1. Flip Flops
Not only flip-flops, every rider should avoid any shoes that get his toes exposed. If you face an accident, the first thing that touches the ground is your legs. So how do you expect to get a firm balance with flip-flops? Also, they are a foolproof way to get your feet badly tanned during summer or completely frozen during winters. No-no.
2. Tank Tops
It is not a good idea to leave any part of your body exposed while riding a motorbike. There is every possibility that you may encounter a crash or have a nasty fall, so cover up as much as possible. Tank tops could work as an innerwear but make sure to layer with a jacket and zip the jacket close up to the neck.
3. Shorts
Exposed legs is an extremely bad idea for a rider. Not only will you be left with a grazed knee and bad bruises after a fall, but many bike accessories like bash plate and frame guards are made up of metals that can get extremely hot while riding. So imagine the hot metal against your exposed skin- a really nasty way to get bad burns.
4. An All Black Outfit
A head-to-toe black outfit surely looks very cool but it may not be the ideal outfit on a motorbike, especially when you’re traveling at night. Make sure to wear a colored jacket so that you can be easily spotted by other drivers. Or you can also opt for riding gears that have a reflective accent attached to it.
5. Lightweight Fabrics
Motorbikers affinity for leather jackets isn’t just to look fancy; they actually protect them in case of a crash. On the other hand, lightweight fabrics will shred instantly when you hit a pavement or encounter a bad fall. It is advisable to opt for strong, durable fabrics that can actually offer you some form of protection.
6 Must-Have Clothing Items For Motorbikers
Now that we’ve seen what we have to avoid, let’s focus on clothing items that you cannot do without while riding
1. Jacket
No matter what weather, it is extremely silly to ride a motorbike without a jacket. During summers, jackets protect your skin from the direct heat of the sun and in winters it will protect you from the cold. Some jackets also come with removable liners that can be used throughout the year. Choose durable fabrics like leather that can help to prevent a road rash in case of a crash.
2. Gloves
Gloves keep your hands warm and prevent it from slipping due to excessive sweating so that you can have total control of the bike’s clutch, brakes, and throttle. They come in a variety of fabrics and have protective elements usually at the back of the knuckles and hands. Choose gloves that are waterproof and breathable so that they are not unduly slippery.
3. Pants
Motorbike pants are a good investment if you are a regular rider. They are thicker pants that come with a reinforcing fiber like kevlar liners or weaves that can give you extra protection than normal pants. Some pants also come with built-in knee pads and hip protectors. Reflective material on the piping, stitching or anywhere in the body area can help with visibility.
4. One Piece Racing Suits
One piece suits for ideal for hardcore motorbikers. They provide the ideal protection and comfort while you sit on a bike. Moreover, these suits are also great for rainy weather as there no chance of water seeping through the opening between your top and bottom wear. Sizing is important here; opt for suits according to your size and body type to ensure maximum utility.
5. Vest
Vests are great for added protection during motorbiking. They are also great during colder months to provide extra warmth. You can also wear a high-vis vest over the top for added visibility. Or opt for air jackets that keep cool during summer and warm during winters.
6.Spine Protector Belt
The spine is an important part of your body and it’s important to provide extra protection for it while riding. A spine protector belt can be worn to provide cushioning and support to your spine and kidney area. Girls can try a steel boned corset for added support. They can also help with your posture when you sit on a motorbike for a longer duration.
Also, don’t forget helmets. Besides providing protection for your head, they also help in shielding your face against the wind, bugs, dust, and other particles that can blur your vision and affect visibility. Get some good sunglasses or a darkened visor to shield against sun glare. If you ride in the heat a lot, you can look for a synthetic fabric that is more breathable, but again a little bit of sweat is better than a permanent road rash.
Author’s Bio: Jessica is a traveler by heart. Along with frequently penning down her thoughts related to travel experiences, she is an avid biker and an expert reviewer of motorcycle adventure products too.
