Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out on your first 125cc bike, staying safe while out on the roads, tracks, or trails is essential. Not only do you protect yourself, you can also protect other road users, prevent excessive wear and tear on your motorcycle, and overall have a more enjoyable ride for longer.
As experts in impact protection for motorcycling, we know that the best way to stay safe is to choose D3O® for your motorcycle armor and protection - but there are a few additional things to keep in mind as well.
You shouldn’t think about getting on your motorcycle if you don’t have the right clothing and protective gear to get started. A basic list of items you need is:
It is essential to check that your armor and garments are CE certified (or UKCA equivalent) to the PPE Regulation 2016/425 in accordance with the EN1621 series of standards.
Before getting on your motorcycle, check that your gear contains the right impact protection for your riding style. D3O® motorcycle impact protection comes in Level 1 or Level 2 protection, and you can choose from features such as flexibility or breathability - all D3O® impact protection is comfortable no matter which option you choose.
D3O® motorcycle impact protection is certified to the appropriate EN standard, so you know you’re getting the best protection possible.
In addition to this, whole garment testing is done separately against EN 17092:2020, which is where the item is tested to ensure it is fit for purpose using the CE/UKCA AAA-A classification.
Always make sure you have back and limb protection as a minimum in your jacket and motorcycle pants, and it’s advised to have chest protection, plus gloves and boots designed for motorcycling.
D3O® impact protection from D3O has been proven time and time again to reduce the risk of serious injury in the event of a crash or fall. Don’t ride without it!
There are so many different disciplines of motorcycling, and while they all need protective gear, for some types of riding you need more protection, and for some a basic level will cover you just fine.
For those who race, stunt ride, are into motocross or serious off-roading, you’ll need to opt for Level 2 impact protection. This could include:
D3O® Level 2 impact protection can be found in the Klim Badlands Pro A3 Jacket and the Klim Badlands Pro A3 Pant. You can find D3O® LP2 limb protectors and Viper Central Level 2 back protector in the Women’s Richa Bodyguard 2 Jacket.
If you’re a more casual rider, perhaps a weekend tourer or everyday commuter, you can choose from Level 1 protection from D3O®. This includes:
Ghost™ armor by D3O is the most flexible impact protection available. It’s a true ‘fit and forget’ solution, making it perfect for everyday riding. You can find D3O® Ghost™ armor in the elbows and shoulders of the Harley-Davidson Big Sur jacket and in the hips and knees of the Furygan K11 x Kevlar Stretch motorcycle pants.
Combining LP1 limb protectors and a Viper Stealth back protector, the ICON Airform jacket is a great choice for commuters. With its WP1 waterproofing, mesh panels and built-in vents, you get protection and comfort all-in-one.
Exactly as you’d take your car for a yearly service, you should get your motorcycle regularly checked over. Having regular services not only picks up any safety hazards that could be lurking, the additional care and maintenance will also extend the life of your motorcycle.
You can take your motorcycle to any reputable auto shop that specializes in motorcycles for a service and tune up. Many motorcyclists do their own repair and maintenance work as a hobby, but if you’re not 100% confident in your abilities, always take it to a professional.
Being visible to other road users, such as cars and trucks, is essential to staying safe while riding. Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see than a big car on the road, and if the weather conditions are poor or dark, it can be difficult to spot them.
You can buy dedicated reflective motorcycle gear with hi-viz elements, such as stripes or piping, to stay visible on the road. Make sure the lights on your bike are working correctly, and where possible avoid only dark colors for your gear. Motorcycle jackets with armor, pants, and helmets are available in a range of colors and styles these days to help you look stylish and stay safe.
It’s important to always stay focused when riding. It only takes a small distraction for an accident to happen, and paying attention can literally save your life. You can avoid easy distractions such as sweat, uncomfortable clothing, flapping laces or whistling air noise by wearing properly fitted and dedicated motorcycle gear.
Designed to help minimize these kinds of distractions, most motorcycle clothing wicks away sweat or has added mesh ventilation, secured with zippers or hook-and-loop fastenings, and can feature stretch panels for additional range of movement. D3O® LP1, LP2 Pro and BP4 L1/L2 limb and back armor provides built-in ventilation. This all reduces the number of distractions you might face and helps keep your focus on the road.
Heading out on your bike in wet or icy conditions is probably not the best idea. You’re much more likely to lose your traction while riding, which could result in a fall, slide or crash. Motorcycles have half the wheel traction of cars so the risk of being caught out by poor weather conditions is much higher. Use good judgment on your own riding abilities and the weather before heading out. Besides, riding in the cold and wet is never fun!
Don’t push yourself beyond your skill level or riding confidence - this is when accidents are most likely to happen as you lose control and are unable to correct. Ride at a level you feel confident and comfortable at, and if you want to improve your skills, have a few sessions with an instructor and work your way up steadily.
As much as it’s important for others to be able to see you while out on the road, you also need to exercise a higher level of road awareness when riding a motorcycle than driving a car. Take the time to look twice before pulling out, clearly indicate lane changes, and don’t sneak up unaware on drivers or other road users. It might feel like being excessively cautious, but taking a few extra seconds to check around you while riding can make a world of difference.
Take care while riding your bike. Never get on your bike when you’re in a hurry, as you’re more likely to make mistakes or poor judgments which could be dangerous. Take your time, be prepared, and give yourself the headspace to properly ride and enjoy your motorcycle. Be respectful of other road users and pedestrians, obey the rules of the road and you’ll be able to have a better, safer and more enjoyable ride.