It’s February and spring is in the air, riders are starting to get that itch again and the antsy nature of the beast is starting to rear it head. While the chill isn’t completely out of the air, plenty of riders are starting to justify that eh 50 degress isn’t so bad in fact 45+ is totally rideable. I know, I’ve done exactly that. Ah, how we will try to rationalize with ourselves. There are plenty of factors to consider, but for the sake of the article we are going to focus on gear. Gearing up is THE most important thing you will do when you ride, the bike and it’s maintenance being separate issues of course…but it all boils down to safety. Gearing up is our cage, so to speak, it is the one physical element we will put on ourselves to protect our bodies in the case something should go awry. The question you need to ask is are you geared up properly? There are plenty of brands, plenty of choices and price points. For men, your options are more plentiful and diverse. Gals, well we just got to do the best we can, our options are more limited. You have to try stuff on, not every manufacturer makes for your body type, gear that fits is essential. If you are uncomfortable, it will be distracting, you will not be focusing on your riding and it could lead to dire consequences. Too tight and it’s not just uncomfortable, you won’t be able to relax, yet on the other hand too loose and there is a danger it could catch on something or shift when you fall meaning in reality it’s really not protecting you at all. It needs to fitted, yet allow movement, all while holding the protective armor in place without shifting.
Cost is an issue with everyone, face it motorcycle gear is pricey, but it is necessary. Most men won’t hesitate at dropping $1,500 for a new set of pipes so the bike sounds awesome, but then they will penny pinch with their gear. Note to men: a loud bike doesn’t make you sexy, a guy who is geared up, their bike is immaculate (shows they maintain it) and rides well…That is Sexy! (Shoot I may even actually look in your direction and give you nod) Buying a helmet is of paramount importance, this is protecting the most important part of your body, so don’t be cheap, do your research and again it’s about fit. Go to the stores and try them on, it should be snug, but not give you a headache. It should squish your cheeks slightly. A poor fitting helmet is almost as bad as not wearing one at all. It is made to cradle your head and keep the impact to a minimum for your brain, if it doesn’t fit imagine what it does to it. Find a brand that fits your body type, if you aren’t sure ask other riders with your similar body type, they will be willing to share what works for them and give you suggestions. There are also plenty of companies now that do custom, while it does cost a bit more, it is really worth it and usually for a nominal amount on top of the cost (depending on the brand) you have a bespoke item that does it’s job and beautifully to boot. Do your homework. Same principles apply to gloves and boots, fitted and comfortable. If it doesn’t fit properly don’t assume you will get it to fit better as time goes on, it will just end up getting eBay’ed as you try to find something else. Remember: It is your body, protect it!
Please, always gear up head to toe (yes, even in 90 degree weather), while you may be a great rider, there are circumstances you will not have control over and being foolish about not completely gearing up is a bad decision. You may be in a hurry, you are just running down the road, you’re not hitting the main highway, etc. those are not excuses. If you are late you’re late. Road rash looks awful on everyone.
Looking forward to getting back on the track and seeing everyone! Save the date: MotoVixens is presenting CC Track Events for two special days, per your request, with special classroom sessions on both days. June 27 will be 3 session format with a special classroom session for women and June 28 will be 3 sessions as well, with one classroom session for men. Announcements will be coming later this month! Stay tuned for details!
As always Vixens Ride!
