Motorcycle Riding Gear

If you’re new to motorcycle riding, then you’re about to enjoy so many memorable rides and wonderful experiences. However, as a new rider, you’ll need to make sure you keep yourself safe. The best way to do that is to invest in the proper motorcycle riding gear, which helps to keep you comfortable while you ride and protected in the event of an accident.

Not sure what you need? Doc's Harley-Davidson in Kirkwood, MO, has been in business since 1955 as your local motorcycle dealer. Here are the most important pieces of motorcycle apparel you’ll need to get as a new rider.

Helmet

The most important piece of gear for you to get when riding a motorcycle is a well-fitting, DOT-rated motorcycle helmet. You’ll want to try on several models to make sure that you get a helmet that fits you comfortably so that you won’t avoid wearing it. Your helmet should be snug without feeling tight or pinchy. Motorcycle helmets should be replaced every five years since the foam padding begins to wear down at this point, or after an impact event, whichever comes first.

If your helmet does not have a full face mask to protect your eyes from flying debris, wind, rain and sun, then you’ll need to invest in a pair of goggles instead for eye protection. Try to get UV-tinted goggles or a UV-tinted face shield if you can’t wear sunglasses under your helmet.

Outerwear

We’ve all seen that motorcyclist who throws caution to the wind and goes out in a pair of sneakers, shorts and a T-shirt. This is not the outfit that’s going to protect your skin in the event you skid out on your bike, however. Instead of wearing street clothing, you can invest in special motorcycle apparel that will keep you safer in an accident as well as shielding you from the elements as you ride. 

Some people opt to wear riding pants and a riding jacket made of sturdy, heavy fabrics like leather. You can get ventilated and light-colored versions for summer riding; make sure that you don’t just avoid wearing these items when it’s hot outside! Your other option is a one-piece riding suit that fits over your street clothes and keeps them clean while protecting you during your ride.

Gloves

Your hands need to be protected as well when you’re riding your motorcycle. Invest in a good pair of motorcycle gloves that give you good grip and protect your hands from chapping in the wind. You might want to have a lightweight and ventilated pair for summer riding to prevent your hands from sweating, as well as a heavier, insulated pair for winter riding.

Boots

Normal street footwear will not cut the mustard when it comes to safe riding practices. You need a sturdy pair of riding boots with good tread to wear while riding your motorcycle. Your boots should be made from a hardy material like leather and should come up to your ankles at the bare minimum. The treads will help you stay balanced when you’re at a stoplight, while the rest of the boot helps to protect your feet in an accident. Tuck in the laces while riding to prevent them from being caught on parts of your motorcycle.

Check out our selection of Harley-Davidson® clothing on our website, and then come on into our Kirkwood dealership to take a look at our MotorClothes® selection in person. You can also browse our full stock of new and used Harley-Davidson® motorcycles for sale on either our website or at our dealership. We even provide financing options to help you get the gear and bike you need. Remember — it’s always a party at St. Louis’ premier dealer, Doc’s Harley-Davidson! We proudly serve the city of St. Charles, MO.