Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience but it exposes your body to the environment. Leather riding gear protects sensitive areas of your hands and legs while on the road. It can act as life-saving equipment in the event of a fall or accident. The most basic gear consists of a leather jacket with elbow pads, leather trousers with knee protection, leather gloves and a durable pair of leather riding shoes. A motorcycle helmet approved by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is mandatory and completes primary bike riding accessories.
Some reasons why you should use leather riding gear whenever you are on a motorcycle include protection from rain, sun, frost and asphalt road surface. Riding gear is abrasion resistant and prevents your hands and knees from getting scraped on the tarmac. Let us look more closely at individual riding gear that you should use.
Different types of riding gear
If you are a serious bike rider, you will know the advantages of wearing good riding gear. Not only does it keep you safe, but you also present a typical motorcyclist persona that cannot be mistaken for anything else. Most riding gear comes with reflective materials that warn other motorists of your position on the road. It may cost a bit, but the money you invest goes a long way in providing years of confident and stress-free riding.
Here are some important riding gear items that you should consider wearing.
Riding jacket
Other than your helmet, the riding jacket provides a great deal of protection on your motorcycle. Ensure that the jacket is comfortable, fits snuggly over your arms and shoulders and is made from durable leather material. Synthetic fabrics are not breathable and will not wick away sweat and moisture while you ride. Natural materials made of cotton for the inner lining provide a soft feeling that allows you to stretch and be flexible on the road. Many riding jackets come with colourful symbols, reflective material and a silver lining to make you visible to other drivers. You can exhibit your style by personalising your riding jacket with patches and insignia. You can even make a fashion statement so that people will recognize you every time you take your motorcycle for a spin around town. Riding jackets are indispensable on long journeys and road trips. They protect you from heavy rain, harsh sunshine maybe even snow and ice if you ride during the winter.
Riding gloves
Palms and fingers are one of the most sensitive parts of the body. And they are the first regions to receive injuries in a bike mishap. Riding gloves are made from tough leather material with rubber padding to protect your fragile hands. Reinforced abrasion armour prevents injuries and the soft materials provide enduring comfort on long rides. A good pair of riding gloves can cost you only Rs.1000 and are available in several colours, materials and sizes to fit your hands. There are even some gloves that have thin material over the fingertips enabling the use of your smartphone or navigation devices attached to your instrument binnacle. Another advantage of riding loves is the sheer grip they offer on handlebars. You can ride confidently knowing your hands will not slip easily.
Riding trousers
Most riders are under the impression that a good pair of jeans is fine for riding a motorcycle. But the truth is that jeans will not hold up in a low-speed fall in the dirt. Denim material is not durable enough to protect your knees and thighs, as they will simply rip at the seams. What you need is specially designed leather riding trousers to keep your lower body well protected. They come with rubber knee pads and plastic cladding to absorb impacts and prevent injuries. They are also made of stretchable material and flexible seams that allow you to shift gears, apply brakes and put your feet down when you come to stop. Leather riding pants provide excellent ventilation are easy to wear and are like armour for your legs. Combine these pants with a good pair of leather riding shoes and you can tackle any road or even off-road dirt tracks.
Conclusion
The importance of riding gear cannot be understated in today’s driving conditions. Roads are filled with obstacles, errant motorists, traffic lights and speeding vehicles that make the situation dangerous at times. A solid ensemble of riding gear together with a helmet, riding gloves, leather jacket and a pair of riding pants will keep you safe and sound in an emergency.
Riding gear is essential for touring as it keeps you well-cosseted away from the weather. Choose your apparel based on personal requirements. Gear meant for a street cruiser will not work well on a Super sports bike. As always ride in a defensive manner and follow road safety rules for a safe journey.
