Were you aware that riding a motorcycle can reduce stress markers by at least 28%? Motorcycling for 20 minutes also produces effects like those from light exercise. Moreover, motorcyclists appear to have better sensory focus than those who drive cars!
With all these benefits, it’s no wonder that there are now over 13.15 million motorcycles in the US. That brings the country’s total household ownership of motorbikes to 8%!
If you’re thinking of buying a motorcycle yourself, know that it’s not enough to get just a bike. You should also invest in must-have motorcycle accessories. Do this even if you already have a bike, but even more so if it’s looking a little under-the-weather or outdated.
Not sure what these motorcycle essentials are? Don’t worry: we got your back. Check out our guide on the most crucial motorcycle gear and accessories you should own.
1. Full-Face Helmet
A helmet is the most crucial motorcycle safety gear that you should never ride without. They have shown an effectiveness rate of up to 67% in preventing head and brain injuries. They can also reduce fatal motorcycle injury risks by at least 37%.
Besides, the use of helmets is mandatory for all motorcyclists in 19 states and DC. Many other states implement some form of helmet laws, too.
With that said, it’s best to go with a full-face helmet, especially if you’re a new rider. These are the helmets that provide the most coverage for the head and the neck. As such, many consider them as the safest and most protective headgear for riders.
Full-face helmets also come with a chin bar, a crucial safety feature that other helmets don’t have. This is also the main component that distinguishes them from open face helmets.
You want a chin bar because more than half of motorcycle crashes have shown to affect this area of the face. This protective feature can reduce the shock of an impact that can otherwise damage the chin and jaw. Here’s a good resource worth checking out on how to buy a motorcycle helmet.
2. Reflective Accessories and Add-Ons
Vehicle drivers are responsible for two-thirds of collisions involving motorcycles. In such cases, most at-fault drivers admit to not seeing the two-wheeler. As such, they ended up violating the rider’s right of way, leading to the crash.
To protect yourself from such “poor” visibility risks, use reflective motorcycle gear. Your bike itself would likely come with factory reflectors, but you should get a few more. Start with reflective stickers that match the adjacent light (i.e., red for your taillights).
You can also install extra front and rear reflectors on your bike, which can help make you even more visible.
As for motorcycle clothing, it entirely depends on you if you want it to be reflective as well. Many riders shun reflective jackets, but some still look cool. Consider donning one of these, especially if you’re a new motorcyclist.
3. Higher-Quality, Longer-Burning Lights
Manufacturers of aftermarket motorcycle lights deliver brighter and often more energy-efficient products. LED lights, which can last between 25,000 to 50,000 hours, are now also available for motorcycles. Moreover, they produce a higher level of brightness than halogen (like Xenon).
Depending on your state, you may have up to two separate headlamps on your bike. You can replace both with LED, or you can keep the factory one and then install an extra light.
Some states also allow motorcycles to have extra lights in other colors, such as green or blue. Be sure to check your local road laws, though, as each city and state have varying regulations.
What’s important is to never ride a motorcycle without a fully-working head or tail light. This will only make you a target of road law enforcers. Worse, this can put you and other motorists at serious risk of collision.
4. Motorcycle Seat Pad
Most factory motorcycle seats (or saddles) use foam as a form of cushioning. However, most seats themselves come covered with hard, rigid materials. Because of this, they’re not the most comfortable thing in the world.
Moreover, prolonged exposure to stiff seats can raise risks for scrotum injuries. These materials can cause excessive friction on the skin of the groin area. This can go from bad to worse if you wear compressive clothing like denim jeans.
With that said, you should consider investing in a high-quality motorcycle seat pad. These are products that provide an additional layer of comfortable cushioning. Some can even boost circulation, which can then help prevent soreness in the groin area.
5. Automatic Turn Signal Cancelling System
Failure to comply with road signs and signals are common causes of road crashes. However, false signaling can also result in collisions, as this can cause confusion. Drivers who are following you may think that you want to turn left or right, even if you don’t.
The thing is, motorcycles have tiny turn signal buttons, so they’re pretty easy to miss. Thick gloves can also make switching these signals on and off even more difficult.
An automatic turn signal canceling system eliminates these issues. It automates the process of shutting off your signal lights whenever you complete a turn.
To do this, the device monitors the straightness and levelness of the motorcycle. So, once you complete a turn and your bike is all straight up, the system disables the turn indicator lights. There’s nothing else you have to do or press if you have this innovative system on your bike.
Get These Must-Have Motorcycle Accessories Now for Safer, More Enjoyable Rides
These are only a few of the must-have motorcycle accessories you should get, but they’re a good place to start. They can, after all, help reduce your risks of accidents and, ultimately, crash injuries. Once you have everything on this list, you can invest in other gear, like an upgraded exhaust system.
Ready for more motorcycling tips, tricks, and ride guides? Then be sure to follow Side Car so that you can stay up-to-date with the latest vehicle-related news!
