Category: Motorcycle Gear

The Ultimate Guide to Motorcycle Gear

Motorcycle gear is not just about looking cool while riding. It’s a critical aspect of safety and comfort on the road. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, equipping yourself with the right gear is essential.

This guide will walk you through the must-have motorcycle gear, covering everything from helmets to luggage, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your next ride.

1. Motorcycle Helmets: Your Most Important Safety Gear

arai motorcycle helmet

Motorcycle helmets are the most crucial piece of safety equipment for any rider. They are designed to protect your head in an accident, potentially saving your life. There are several types of motorcycle helmets, each with its own advantages.

Types of Motorcycle Helmets

Full-Face Helmets

These helmets offer the most protection, covering the entire head and face. They are ideal for high-speed riding and long-distance trips.

Read about the best full-face helmets.

Open-Face Helmets

Also known as three-quarter helmets, these cover the top, back, and sides of your head but leave your face exposed. They are popular for city riding and lower speeds.

Read about the best open-face helmets.

Modular Helmets

A hybrid between full-face and open-face helmets, modular helmets have a chin bar that can be flipped up, offering versatility.

Read about the best modular helmets.

Half Helmets

Half helmets cover only the top of the head and are lightweight and offer minimal protection. They are often favored by cruiser riders.

Read about the best half helmets.

Key Features to Consider

Safety Ratings

Look for helmets that meet DOT, ECE, or Snell safety standards. These certifications ensure the helmet has passed rigorous safety tests.

Fit and Comfort

A helmet should fit snugly but not too tight. It should feel comfortable on long rides without causing pressure points.

Ventilation

Good airflow is crucial, especially on hot days. Look for helmets with adjustable vents.

Visor

A clear, scratch-resistant visor is essential for good visibility. Some helmets come with tinted or anti-fog visors for added convenience.

Investing in a high-quality helmet can make a significant difference in your safety and riding experience. Always replace your helmet after an impact, even if there are no visible signs of damage.

Read all of my motorcycle helmet articles.

2. Motorcycle Jackets: Style Meets Protection

motorcycle jackets for new riders

A motorcycle jacket is more than just a fashion statement; it’s a critical piece of protective gear that safeguards you from the elements and potential injuries. A good motorcycle jacket can provide abrasion resistance, impact protection, and even climate control.

Materials and Construction

Leather

The classic choice for motorcycle jackets, leather offers excellent abrasion resistance and durability. It’s particularly popular among cruiser and sportbike riders.

Read about the best leather motorcycle jackets.

Textile

Textile jackets, often made from materials like Cordura or Kevlar, offer versatility and are usually more breathable and lightweight than leather. They often come with waterproof liners, making them ideal for touring and adventure riding.

Read about the best textile motorcycle jackets.

Mesh

Mesh jackets are designed for hot weather, providing maximum ventilation while still offering some protection.

Key Features to Consider

Armor

Look for jackets with CE-rated armor in the shoulders, elbows, and back. Some jackets offer the option to upgrade to higher-level protection.

Fit

The jacket should fit snugly without restricting movement. It should also be long enough to cover your lower back when in a riding position.

Ventilation

For all-season comfort, consider jackets with adjustable vents. Some jackets come with removable liners for added versatility.

Pockets and Storage

A good motorcycle jacket will have plenty of secure pockets for storing small items like keys, phones, and wallets.

Your jacket should offer a balance between style, comfort, and protection. It’s an investment in your safety, so choose wisely and ensure it suits your riding style and conditions.

Read all of my motorcycle jacket articles.

3. Motorcycle Pants: Protection from the Waist Down

adventure motorcycle pants

Motorcycle pants are an often-overlooked piece of gear, but they play a vital role in protecting your lower body during a ride. Just like jackets, motorcycle pants are designed to offer abrasion resistance, impact protection, and comfort.

Materials and Construction

Leather

Leather pants provide excellent abrasion resistance and are a favorite among sportbike riders for their durability and close fit.

Textile

Textile pants offer more versatility and are often waterproof or breathable, making them ideal for various weather conditions. They are a good choice for touring and adventure riding.

Kevlar Jeans

These look like regular jeans but have Kevlar reinforcements in key areas, offering a balance between style and protection. They are popular among casual riders and commuters.

Key Features to Consider

Armor

Ensure the pants come with CE-rated armor in the knees and hips. Some pants offer adjustable armor pockets for a custom fit.

Fit

Motorcycle pants should be comfortable and allow full range of motion. They should also fit well over your boots and not ride up while you’re on the bike.

Weatherproofing

If you ride in various weather conditions, consider pants with waterproof and breathable membranes. Some pants have removable thermal liners for added warmth in cold weather.

Zippers and Closures

Look for pants with secure closures, such as YKK zippers and adjustable waistbands, to ensure a snug fit.

Investing in a good pair of motorcycle pants can save your skin in case of a fall. They also add an extra layer of comfort on long rides, making them a must-have in any rider’s wardrobe.

Read all of my motorcycle pants articles.

4. Motorcycle Boots: Grounded in Safety and Comfort

motorcycle boots

Motorcycle boots are designed to protect your feet, ankles, and lower legs from injuries in the event of a crash. They also provide support and stability when you’re riding and when you put your feet down at stops.

Types of Motorcycle Boots

Racing Boots

Designed for sportbike riders, racing boots offer maximum protection with features like reinforced toe sliders, ankle support, and anti-twist soles.

Touring Boots

These boots prioritize comfort for long rides. They are often waterproof and have extra padding for added comfort.

Cruiser Boots

Often resembling regular work boots, cruiser boots are sturdy and offer good protection while blending in with casual attire.

Adventure Boots

Built for off-road and adventure riding, these boots offer a balance between protection and flexibility, with rugged soles for better grip on uneven terrain.

Key Features to Consider

Protection

Look for boots with reinforced toe boxes, ankle support, and shin guards. Anti-slip soles are also crucial for maintaining grip on various surfaces.

Waterproofing

If you ride in all weather conditions, waterproof boots are a must. Gore-Tex is a popular material for waterproof motorcycle boots.

Fit and Comfort

Boots should fit snugly but allow for some movement. Make sure they are comfortable enough for walking around off the bike as well.

Closure System

Velcro straps, buckles, and zippers are common closure systems. Ensure the closure is secure and easy to use.

A good pair of motorcycle boots can make all the difference in your riding experience. They not only protect your feet and ankles but also enhance your overall comfort on long rides.

Read all of my motorcycle boots articles.

5. Motorcycle Gloves: Essential Hand Protection

Reax Tasker motorcycle Gloves

Motorcycle gloves are crucial for protecting your hands from injuries, weather conditions, and improving your grip on the controls. The right pair of gloves can make a significant difference in your riding experience.

Types of Motorcycle Gloves

Racing Gloves

Designed for sportbike riders, these gloves offer maximum protection with features like knuckle guards, palm sliders, and reinforced stitching.

Touring Gloves

These gloves are built for comfort on long rides. They often have extra padding and are made from materials that provide insulation and waterproofing.

Off-Road Gloves

Lightweight and breathable, off-road gloves offer protection against abrasions and impacts while allowing maximum flexibility.

Winter Gloves

These gloves are insulated to keep your hands warm in cold weather. They are usually waterproof and windproof, making them ideal for winter riding.

Key Features to Consider

Protection

Look for gloves with reinforced knuckles, palm sliders, and abrasion-resistant materials. Some gloves also offer impact protection on the fingers.

Comfort and Fit

Gloves should fit snugly but not be too tight. They should allow for full range of motion and not restrict your ability to operate the controls.

Weatherproofing

For all-season riding, consider gloves with waterproof and thermal liners. Ventilated gloves are great for hot weather.

Grip and Control

The gloves should offer a good grip on the handlebars and controls. Look for gloves with textured palms or silicone grips.

Investing in quality motorcycle gloves is essential for hand protection and riding comfort. Whether you’re riding in the summer heat or winter cold, there’s a pair of gloves suited to your needs.

Read all of my motorcycle gloves articles.

6. Motorcycle Luggage: Carry Your Gear with Ease

Nelson Rigg Mini Expandable Sport Saddlebag motorcycle luggage

Motorcycle luggage is essential for carrying your belongings securely while riding. Whether you’re going on a long tour or just commuting to work, having the right luggage can make your ride more convenient and enjoyable.

Types of Motorcycle Luggage

Saddlebags

These are mounted on the sides of the motorcycle and offer a good balance between capacity and accessibility. They come in hard and soft variants.

Tank Bags

Mounted on the fuel tank, these bags are great for carrying small items like maps, wallets, and phones. Some tank bags are magnetic, while others use straps.

Tail Bags

Attached to the rear of the motorcycle, tail bags offer extra storage without the need for a full luggage system. They are ideal for short trips.

Panniers

Similar to saddlebags but typically larger and more rigid, panniers are great for long-distance touring. They provide ample storage

Read all of my motorcycle luggage articles.

Below are all of the latest articles on motorcycle gear.

Best Motorcycle Jackets for New Riders

You might be wondering if motorcycle jackets for new riders are really necessary. Can’t you wear your everyday jacket? Yes, and no. You can wear whatever you want (it’s a free country), but I would advise you to get a good jacket.

However, you don’t need to go all out with your first jacket. All you need is something that’s going to provide you with some good protection from the elements and from the road should you go down.

The following jackets are perfect examples of motorcycle jackets for new riders simply because they don’t break the bank and they offer good protection and features. Check them out below.

Best Motorcycle Boots for New Riders

So, you’re a new rider? If this is the case, then you need yourself a good pair of motorcycle boots for new riders.

Boots are one of the most important pieces of gear you can have on a motorcycle, and because of this, I thought it best to pull together a list of some excellent boots for new riders.

Let’s dive right into the boots so you can get to buying the pair that will work perfectly for you.

Casual Moto Gear: The 5 Best 100MPH Cafe Racer Shirts

Do you own a cafe racer and you want to rep the lifestyle even when you’re not on the bike? A good cafe racer shirt is one of the best ways to do it. I’ve noticed a lot of moto apparel companies pop up recently, and 100MPH is one of my favorites.

I signed up as an affiliate with 100MPH after buying some of the company’s shirts. If you’re looking for some of the best cafe racer t-shirts and raglan shirts out there, then keep reading.

I’ve pulled my favorite five shirts from the cafe racer section of 100MPH’s website and listed them below.

15 Best Retro Helmets for Motorcyclists

Retro motorcycle gear is usually a big hit, especially with the right rider, so it only makes sense that retro helmets would be popular, too.

Today, a retro style doesn’t mean old-school construction. You can still get all of the best modern helmet features and amenities in a lid that looks like the classic helmets of old.

With that in mind, I thought it best to pull together a full list of retro helmets for motorcycle riders who like that kind of style.

Best Black Friday Motorcycle Helmet Deals

As I noted earlier this week, there are a whole heck of a lot of great Black Friday motorcycle gear deals on Revzilla right now. Because of this, I thought it best to take a closer look at the best motorcycle helmet deals.

I’m a huge advocate for wearing a helmet absolutely every single time you ride. However, I don’t think you should pay an arm and a leg for a good lid.

With these holiday discounts you can get an excellent helmet for less. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at my top picks from the helmets that are on sale right now.

Motorcycle Gear Black Friday Deals You Shouldn’t Overlook

The holidays are nearly here and if you’re a motorcyclist, then you should be good a pumped up about the Black Friday deals on motorcycle gear.

Right now, Revzilla has some of the best motorcycle deals of the season. The company has already rolled out its Black Friday markdowns, so you don’t have to wait.

I’ve pulled together a list of some of my favorites below.

3 Best Motorcycle Ramps for Use with Pickup Trucks

Have you ever had a motorcycle crap out on you and need to get it home or to a shop? Well, if you have a pickup truck (like I do) all you need is a good motorcycle ramp.

A simple motorcycle ramp will make it easy for you to load up your bike and get it home or to a shop or transport it practically anywhere.

I’ve owned a few different ramps over the years, and I wanted to highlight a few that I know work really well. So, let’s dive in.

10 Best Motorcycle Covers You Can Buy to Protect Your Bike

With fall here and winter well on its way in many areas, it’s time to start thinking about motorcycle covers. And you want to choose from the best motorcycle covers to protect your motorcycle.

Motorcycle covers aren’t just a good idea for places that see snow where you have to put your bike up or in storage for a while, they’re also generally a good idea for anyone who keeps their motorcycle outdoors or just plans not to ride for a few weeks and wants to keep the dust off it. They’re also great for just keeping the rain off your bike.

I dug around the Web to find the best motorcycle covers out there. I was going to buy one for myself, and I figured why not do an article on it? So, without further ado, here are my top 10 picks.

Best GPS Systems Under $100 For Motorcycle Riders

Having GPS systems to guide you isn’t a must, it is instead an optional piece of gear. In fact, I’d say you should be able to get by without a GPS for motorcycle riders, but they do come in handy, and you don’t have to spend hundreds to get one.

These days you can get a good GPS system for motorcycle riders for under $100 if you look hard enough. This will help make your trips quick and easy, and help you navigate unfamiliar environments with ease.

While most options at this price point were designed for car use, they can easily be adapted to fit on your motorcycle’s handlebars and used on your next ride. Here are a few of the best GPS options for under $100.

5 Best Backpacks for Motorcycle Riders

Backpacks for motorcycle riders are an absolute must. The one thing that a lot of motorcycles lack is storage.

Sure you can add saddlebags and luggage to your ride, but sometimes you simply can’t pass up the convenience of a simple bag you carry with you

with that said, you don’t want to just go out and grab any backpack off the shelf, you want to have a backpack that was designed for motorcycle riders.

You also don’t want to buy just any ole pack from a motorcycle shop. You should look for the best backpacks for motorcycle riders and then select your choice from there.

Luckily, you don’t have to waste time tracking the best options down. I have put together a list of motorcycle backpacks that I think are the best. Here are my top five picks.