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Choosing the Perfect Motorcycle Gear For Every Riding Style

Dec. 10 2024 Accessory Buying Guide By Freedom Cycles

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What to Wear On Cruiser, Sport, and Touring Motorcycles

 Whether you're riding through city streets, embarking on long-distance tours, hitting the dirt track, or speeding through corners on a sportbike, choosing the appropriate gear for your style of riding makes all the difference.

 In this blog, we'll discuss why motorcycle riding gear is essential for your safety and comfort, and we'll provide guidance on choosing the right gear based on the specific type of riding you enjoy. 

Why Motorcycle Riding Gear Is Important

Motorcycle riding exposes you to various risks and elements that can cause harm if you’re not properly protected. Here are a few reasons why wearing the right gear is so important: 

Riding Gear Provides Protection Against Impact

Motorcycle gear like helmets, jackets, and gloves are equipped with impact-resistant materials that help absorb and distribute the force of a crash, reducing the risk of serious injury. A high-quality helmet, for example, can prevent head injuries, while Alpinestars padded jackets and pants can protect your joints and bones. 

Riding Gear Shields You Against the Elements

Riding exposes you to wind, rain, cold, heat, and debris from the road. Cortech weather-resistant jackets, pants, and boots keep you comfortable by providing insulation, ventilation, and waterproofing. Gloves and visors also protect your hands and face from harsh conditions like wind and rain. 

Riding Gear Improves Visibility

Brightly colored or reflective motorcycle riding gear makes it easier for other drivers to see you, especially in low-light or poor weather conditions. This can help you avoid accidents in busy traffic or while nighttime riding. 

Riding Gear Delivers Added Comfort and Control

Properly fitted RST riding gear enhances your comfort and control over your bike. Gloves give you a better grip on the handlebars, while ventilated jackets and pants prevent you from overheating during long rides. 

Choosing Motorcycle Riding Gear Based On Your Riding Style

Riding a cruising motorcycle at low speeds through downtown is a different experience than an 8-hour interstate ride on a touring motorcycle. Each riding style comes with its own unique set of challenges and conditions, which means you must tailor how you ride and what you wear to suit the situation. Here’s how to pick the right riding gear for different types of motorcycle riding: 

City Riding

City riding is typically characterized by frequent stops and starts, and lower speeds. It also means navigating through traffic, dealing with pedestrians, and responding to unpredictable road conditions, so flexibility and visibility are key when choosing your gear.

  • Helmet: A full-face Shoei helmet or modular helmet with good ventilation for stop-and-go traffic is ideal. Look for helmets with integrated sun visors to protect your eyes.
  • Jacket and pants: A lightweight textile jacket with built-in armor provides both protection and comfort. Opt for gear with reflective elements to increase visibility to other vehicles.
  • Gloves: Short, breathable AGV gloves that offer flexibility are perfect for the constant use of clutch and brake levers in city riding.
  • Footwear: Ankle boots or riding shoes with reinforced soles provide adequate protection and are comfortable for walking around when off the bike.

Long-Distance Touring

Riding a touring motorcycle means covering long distances, often for hours multiple days in a row. Comfort, weather protection, and durability are essential when choosing gear for this type of riding.

  • Helmet: A Scorpion touring helmet with advanced noise reduction and integrated communication systems can make long rides more comfortable and connected. A flip-up helmet offers convenience when stopping frequently.
  • Jacket and pants: Waterproof textile gear with adjustable ventilation is ideal for handling varying weather conditions. Look for gear with multiple pockets for carrying essentials, and choose armored pants and jackets for added protection.
  • Gloves: Long gauntlet gloves with thermal insulation are perfect for colder temperatures, while summer gloves with waterproof liners work well in warmer climates.
  • Footwear: Full-length touring boots with waterproofing and a breathable liner provide the necessary support for long rides while keeping your feet dry and comfortable. 

Closed Track Dirt Bike Riding

For dirt bike riders who enjoy off-road adventures and track racing, choosing gear that offers flexibility, impact protection, and breathability is important. Off-road conditions require gear that allows for maximum movement while still offering protection from falls, debris, and rough terrain.

  • Helmet: A dirt bike helmet with an open face allows maximum airflow and better visibility in dusty conditions. Pair the helmet with a high-quality pair of goggles to protect your eyes.
  • Jacket and pants: Armored jerseys, motocross jackets, or off-road pants with knee and hip protection shield you from impact and debris while allowing free movement.
  • Gloves: Lightweight, flexible LS2 gloves with excellent grip and knuckle protection are ideal for handling dirt tracks and maintaining control in tough conditions.
  • Footwear: High Klim motocross boots with ankle and shin protection provide both support and defense from rough terrain and debris. 

Sport Bike Riding

For riders who enjoy the thrill of sport bike riding, aerodynamic gear with high levels of protection is essential. At high speeds, even minor falls can lead to serious injuries, so impact-resistant motorcycle gear is a must.

  • Helmet: A full-face Shoei racing helmet with aerodynamic features and a snug fit minimizes drag and provides maximum protection. Look for helmets with advanced ventilation to maintain comfortable temperatures.
  • Jacket and pants: Alpinestars riding leathers or two-piece leather jackets and pants offer excellent abrasion resistance. Look for options with built-in armor at critical points like the shoulders, elbows, knees, and hips.
  • Gloves: Gauntlet gloves with added wrist and knuckle protection help you maintain a strong grip on the handlebars while reducing your risk of localized injuries.
  • Footwear: Racing boots with reinforced ankle protection and anti-slip soles provide stability and grip when leaning into corners or shifting at high speeds. 

Freedom Cycles Is Your Local Touring and Cruiser Motorcycle Dealer

Choosing the right riding gear is critical for your safety, comfort, and performance on the road, no matter your style of riding. Whether you're navigating city streets, embarking on long-distance tours, tearing up dirt tracks, or enjoying the adrenaline rush of high-speed sport riding, having the right gear protects you while you ride.

Of course, before investing in gear, choose the right motorcycle. With the Kansas City area’s largest indoor showroom of motorcycles and powersport vehicles, Freedom Cycles is the leading sport, touring, and cruiser motorcycle dealer. Plus, we offer deals on riding gear and can set you up with motorcycle jackets, gloves, and helmets that align with your riding style.

Contact us at (816) 761-2220 or send us an email through our contact form to schedule a personal shopping appointment to find your next touring or cruiser motorcycle. You can also visit our showroom at 12501 South 71 Highway in Grandview, MO.