The door swings open and you strut through in your black leather jacket, chaps and boots. Everyone in the place turns and stares while you do your best "Rebel Without a Cause" imitation. There is clearly no better reason to wear motorcycle gear. Well, maybe there is - safety.
The personal protective equipment (PPE) we wear while riding is the only thing between us and the road. Depending on the situation, wearing the proper protective gear (heavy jacket, gloves, boots, etc.) could reduce potential injuries significantly - 30 to 80 percent or more in most cases. Also, wearing PPE isn't just smart, it's mandatory for all U.S. Army Soldiers according to Army Regulation 385-10 as well as Department of Defense Instruction 6055.04.
Motorcycle Helmets
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists without helmets are 29 percent less likely to survive a crash and 40 percent more likely to die from a head injury than those wearing a Department of Transportation-approved helmet. Motorcyclists without helmets are also three times more likely to suffer brain injuries in crashes than those using helmets. Admit it, you like your brain. So protect your head and always wear a helmet.
Eyewear
Protective eyewear (or a face shield attached to the helmet) should be worn at all times, even if the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield. Anti-fog ballistic lenses are recommended when choosing eyewear. You will also want to keep a pair of clear lenses on hand for riding after the sun goes down.
Jacket
Most high-quality motorcycle jackets are made from cordura, leather, ballistic nylon or Kevlar. A good jacket will include heavy padding on the elbows, spine and shoulders. Additionally, the jacket should include reflective strips. If not, you should augment the jacket by wearing a highly visible reflective vest over it. Also, look for a jacket that offers good venting for summertime riding.
Pants
Many riders wear jeans or other types of long trousers, but like a jacket, good pants will be made of leather, nylon or Kevlar. There are also various brands of heavy denim pants made specifically for riding. For winter riding, pants not only offer protection, they can keep you warm. Insulated pants or chaps are a good choice and can be bought coated for rain resistance.
Gloves
Full-fingered gloves should be worn regardless of the weather, and there are different types for warm and cold weather riding. Warm weather gloves are usually not insulated and are made of leather or Kevlar. The good ones have carbon fiber knuckle protection should you fall. Winter gloves provide the same level of protection, but are insulated. Waterproofing is also a good idea.
Boots
A motorcyclist should have boots that allow the foot to fit on the motorcycle peg while still providing good ankle support. Boots should come up over the ankle, as that will offer additional protection in the event of a crash. Leather is a great choice for a boot and provides greater protection than other "stylish" footwear. Make sure the boot has a good, durable rubber sole that provides traction and slip resistance. The thicker the sole, the more the boot will absorb the bike's vibration.
Riders are often the victims of unpredictable and irresponsible motorists (see the story "From Out of Nowhere" on page XX of this issue). When you cannot avoid an accident, your riding gear may be all that stands between you and a funeral with honors. Why not put that funeral off until your great-grandchildren are old enough to attend'
FYI
Additional information regarding proper Motorcycle PPE can be found in Army Regulation 385-10, Chapter 11-9.
Did You Know'
May 2011 has been designated as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) encourages drivers to become more aware of motorcycles on the road, especially during the warmer, busier summer riding months.
Social Sharing