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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Look for helmets that meet DOT, ECE, or Snell safety standards. These certifications ensure the helmet has passed rigorous safety tests.
A helmet should fit snugly but not too tight. It should feel comfortable on long rides without causing pressure points.
Good airflow is crucial, especially on hot days. Look for helmets with adjustable vents.
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.
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.
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 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 jackets are designed for hot weather, providing maximum ventilation while still offering some protection.
Look for jackets with CE-rated armor in the shoulders, elbows, and back. Some jackets offer the option to upgrade to higher-level protection.
The jacket should fit snugly without restricting movement. It should also be long enough to cover your lower back when in a riding position.
For all-season comfort, consider jackets with adjustable vents. Some jackets come with removable liners for added versatility.
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.
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.
Leather pants provide excellent abrasion resistance and are a favorite among sportbike riders for their durability and close fit.
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.
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.
Ensure the pants come with CE-rated armor in the knees and hips. Some pants offer adjustable armor pockets for a custom 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.
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.
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.
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.
Designed for sportbike riders, racing boots offer maximum protection with features like reinforced toe sliders, ankle support, and anti-twist soles.
These boots prioritize comfort for long rides. They are often waterproof and have extra padding for added comfort.
Often resembling regular work boots, cruiser boots are sturdy and offer good protection while blending in with casual attire.
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.
Look for boots with reinforced toe boxes, ankle support, and shin guards. Anti-slip soles are also crucial for maintaining grip on various surfaces.
If you ride in all weather conditions, waterproof boots are a must. Gore-Tex is a popular material for waterproof motorcycle boots.
Boots should fit snugly but allow for some movement. Make sure they are comfortable enough for walking around off the bike as well.
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.
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.
Designed for sportbike riders, these gloves offer maximum protection with features like knuckle guards, palm sliders, and reinforced stitching.
These gloves are built for comfort on long rides. They often have extra padding and are made from materials that provide insulation and waterproofing.
Lightweight and breathable, off-road gloves offer protection against abrasions and impacts while allowing maximum flexibility.
These gloves are insulated to keep your hands warm in cold weather. They are usually waterproof and windproof, making them ideal for winter riding.
Look for gloves with reinforced knuckles, palm sliders, and abrasion-resistant materials. Some gloves also offer impact protection on the fingers.
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.
For all-season riding, consider gloves with waterproof and thermal liners. Ventilated gloves are great for hot weather.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Motorcycling has always been about more than just two wheels and a motor. It’s a lifestyle, an expression, and for some, a declaration of pride.
Few symbols embody freedom like the American flag, and wearing it on your helmet or any piece of motorcycle gear tells the world exactly where your heart lies. From open highways to rugged dirt trails, these American flag motorcycle helmets combine patriotic flair with safety and style.
Continue reading “The 5 Best American Flag Motorcycle Helmets”The Shoei GT-Air II isn’t just a helmet; it’s a declaration of intent. This is gear for the rider who doesn’t merely commute but conquers highways with purpose and poise.
Shoei, the craftsman behind this full-face helmet, has sculpted something that feels as much at home slicing through the wind as it does resting on the café table beside your espresso. And right now it’s 29 percent off at Revzilla.
Continue reading “The Shoei GT-Air II Helmet Is 29% Off”Finding quality motorcycle boots and shoes under $100 is no small feat. Riders demand a delicate balance of comfort, protection, and style without burning a hole in their wallet. Enter a league of short boots and shoes that promise to deliver exactly that.
From urban riding shoes to versatile boots, we’re diving into five stellar options: Sedici Podio Boots, Leatt MTB Flat 1.0 Hi Shoes, Speed and Strength United By Speed Shoes, Cortech Menace Riding Shoes, and Oxford Warrior Boots. Each offers a unique blend of practicality and design to meet the varied needs of riders.
Continue reading “The 5 Best Pairs of Short Motorcycle Boots and Shoes Under $100”Riding a motorcycle is a symphony of the senses, a harmonious blend of power and freedom. But every conductor needs the right tools, and for the motorcyclist, the right gear is non-negotiable. Among the essentials, tall motorcycle boots stand as the unsung heroes—protecting your feet, ankles, and shins while braving the wind and the asphalt.
Finding quality tall boots on a budget is no easy feat, but there are exceptional tall motorcycle boots under $150. Whether you’re clocking miles on the highway or navigating city streets, these boots offer durability, protection, and comfort without sending your wallet into a tailspin. Let’s dive into the best options.
Continue reading “The 5 Best Tall Motorcycle Boots Under $150”When it comes to riding footwear, the REV’IT! Krait GTX Shoes are not just boots—they’re a manifesto for the modern motorcyclist.
And right now, these boots are 40 percent off at Revzilla, meaning you’ll save a whopping $108 dollars. This is just one of the many sweet deals Revzilla is offering on its products this week.
Continue reading “The REV’IT! Krait GTX Shoes Are 40% Off”Protect your hearing when you ride with some high-quality earplugs!
You need to have some of the best earplugs for motorcycle riders the next time you go out on your bike. The importance of protecting your hearing while you’re out on the road cannot be overstated. Unprotected exposure to wind and engine noise can be damaging to your hearing over time.
Continue reading “The Best Earplugs for Motorcycle Riders”When the mercury rises and the summer sun turns your favorite stretch of asphalt into a shimmering mirage, riding a motorcycle in full gear might feel like an exercise in perseverance.
The solution? A mesh motorcycle jacket. These jackets let you stay cool and protected without sacrificing style or safety. And the best part? You don’t have to shell out a fortune for comfort and performance.
Here, we explore the best mesh motorcycle jackets under $200 that balance airflow, armor, and affordability. Let’s dive into some of the top contenders.
Continue reading “The Best Mesh Motorcycle Jackets Under $200”When adventure calls and the road turns to dirt, a dual sport helmet becomes your best companion. These versatile helmets are designed to handle both the demands of the street and the challenges of the trail.
But not every great helmet needs to break the bank. For under $300, you can snag a helmet that offers comfort, protection, and style. Let’s dive into some of the best options, each tailored for the rider ready to conquer the road less traveled.
Continue reading “The 5 Best Dual Sport Helmets Under $200”Finding a reliable motorcycle jacket under $150 might feel like a tall order, but you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. Textile motorcycle jackets have carved a niche for themselves, offering a lightweight yet durable alternative to leather.
The right one should keep you safe, comfortable, and stylish without breaking the bank. Here, we dive into five outstanding options, each delivering solid protection and great value for less than the cost of a weekend getaway.
Continue reading “The Best Textile Motorcycle Jackets Under $150”When it comes to motorcycle gear, the half helmet holds a unique place. It’s light, convenient, and lets you feel the wind in your hair while offering the basic protection you need.
For riders on a budget, the market offers several solid options under $80, combining safety with a dash of style. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best choices for your next open-road adventure.
Continue reading “The 5 Best Motorcycle Half Helmets Under $80”
