Whether you are a summer rider who likes to explore the UK countryside, or you are a two-wheel commuter, you do need to wear the right gear. Unlike riding in a car, you have no exterior protection on a motorcycle; it is, therefore, essential that you are protected as much as possible.

We will start at the bottom and work our way up to the motorcycle helmet, to give you a complete list of what you need to buy before you get your first bike.

Motorcycle Boots

There is a great selection of men’s motorbike boots at Wheels, a leading UK bike accessory supplier that has many different brands, including Alpinestar. It is important to have good ankle support with footwear when riding a bike and the boots should also be waterproof.

Leather Riding Gloves

It is not advisable to wear mitten-type gloves, as you lose the ability to control things with your fingers. The gloves should be reasonably tight and they will stop your hands from becoming too cold. If you think you could ride your bike in the living room, here is an interesting article on someone who did just that.

Leather Riding Pants

While some make do with thick denim jeans, which do offer a level of protection, the safest attire is leather riding pants. They have special thickness pads on the knees, which are at most risk when you tumble at speed and they also protect you against the cold wind.

Leather Jacket

Leather is preferred for a motorcycle jacket, because it offers protection for your skin when it comes into contact with the road. A decent leather jacket is never going to be cheap, but it will last a lifetime and may save you in the event of an accident.

Crash Helmet

Of course, the head is the most important part of the body, as it contains your brain and while you can break a finger, breaking your head is pretty much the end of the game. Never compromise quality over price when looking to buy a full-face helmet, and stick to a well-known brand, as these are tried and tested. There are various sizes, small, medium and large, so it is important to try on the helmet before you purchase. Full-face is the best type of helmet to wear, as it also protects your face and jaw and with a flip-up visor, you have excellent vision.

Riding in Cold Weather

If you brave enough to ride in the winter, you should layer your clothing, which will help to protect you against the cold. It is essential that you can feel your fingers and your feet, as both are used to control the bike. The best protection is a one-piece leather suit that offers you the best form of skin protection. Click here for UK government information on bike licences and categories.

You can find everything you need for protection while riding your motorcycle from the online supplier and they have the best deals on the well-known brands. It is an investment to buy all the equipment you need, but in the case of an accident, it could save your life.