Always wear proper motorcycle riding gear Hot

It's officially riding season, and bikers are out in full force enjoying the warm weather. Motorcyclists should always wear the proper riding gear, from a helmet approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to boots and pants made of thick material.

Wear the Proper Motorcycle Riding Gear

Wearing the proper riding gear can reduce your risk of a motorcycle accident and protect you from distractions like bugs, heat from your bike, debris on the road, and even weather.

Always Wear a Helmet

Statistics show wearing a DOT-approved helmet greatly increases your chance of survival in the event of a motorcycle accident. Your helmet should fit comfortably (never loose) and not impair your hearing or vision. High-quality helmets are made of fiberglass or a plastic blend, and they are lighter and absorb impact better than less expensive ones.

Along with wearing a helmet, motorcyclists should wear protective eye-wear – either a helmet with a shield, a pair of goggles, or shatterproof glasses. Make sure your eye protection is clean and unscratched, and if your lenses are tinted for riding in the sun, have some that are clear for night riding.

It's also a good idea to wear disposable foam plugs or custom earplugs to protect your ears.

Protect Your Body While Riding

You've probably seen riders with t-shirts, shorts, and maybe even flip-flops. But the truth is that you should protect your body as much as possible while riding. Doing so will keep raindrops from pelting you, prevent heat from the motorcycle scalding your legs, etc.

Jackets should be made of sturdy material like denim, nylon, or leather – many have zippered vents that make them comfortable to wear year-round, even in warm weather. Pants should be made of thick material to resist abrasion. You should also wear gloves to prevent injury to your hands or fingers, which are crucial in maintaining control of your motorcycle.

Always wear close-toed shoes. Boots are best, because they protect your ankles. Make sure you buy boots with rubber soles and good tread design so your feet don't slip.

Wear High Visibility Gear While Riding at Night

Even with headlights and tail lights, you should always wear gear that makes you clearly visible to other drivers. Wear brightly colored or reflective clothing, or you can put reflective strips on your helmet and the backs of your boots.

It's always better to use extra caution and do everything in your power to make yourself visible to other motorists.

For more information on proper riding gear and to learn more about motorcycle safety tips, you can visit EdgarSnyder.com.

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