New to riding a moped, scooter or motorbike?
Bet you're wondering what to wear?
In our last blog we talked about the most important item of clothing – the helmet – and this time we're looking at the rest of a biker's gear.
Full leathers?
The traditional image of a biker is someone donning full leathers, and if we're looking at riding a bigger-engined motorbike long distances, it's the right gear to wear.
But if we're looking to ride a moped around town, is there another route we can go down?
Get the basics right
Strong boots, thick gloves, a padded jacket and reinforced jeans or riding trousers will set any rider on the right path.
Protect your feet
There is a temptation for some riders of mopeds, scooters or motorbikes up to 125cc to think that, as they're not going very fast, it's okay to ride wearing normal street footwear: trainers, dress shoes or sandals.
Don't try it; they'll never offer the protection we need.
Every time we ride, our footwear has to have a thick, sturdy sole and offer proper support for the ankles. The good news is that as with all biker gear, you can buy excellent kit that looks like normal streetwear. We're not talking big biker boots here; ankle-high boots are okay. That way we've got some protection in the event of having to put our feet down quickly in an emergency, or if we take a fall. Reinforced toes are a good idea, too.
Jacket and trousers
There is always the full leathers option but we'll be realistic; if it's a short ride through the city on a 50cc moped, that look feels over the top. Instead look for a stylish biker jacket made with a tough nylon outer shell and subtle reinforcements of shock-absorbing material in the shoulders and elbows. It will look great and feel comfortable to ride in.
Modern jackets come with waterproof, breathable membranes and an inner lining that are ideal for wet weather rides.
Pair the jacket with biker jeans. They look like traditional jeans but are made from strong, tough and high-quality materials with knee armour and padding for the hips, which are both very vulnerable parts of the body if we hit the road
Again, look for a pair with a waterproof membrane and/or a liner to stay dry.
Gloves
Finally, never forget the hands. There is no-way anyone should ride without gloves. Even on the warmest of days the air running across our hands at speed will soon make them feel cold and we'll lose grip and feeling.
Rider gloves need to be waterproof and have a breathable membrane. The best offer padding for the fingers, palms and around the wrist, with snug-fitting strapping to stop drafts whistling inside.
Finally, make sure everyone can see you.
When buying your jacket, trousers and gloves, look for kit with in-built hi-vis strips to make you more visible in poor light.
If your preferred gear doesn't come with them, buy the strips separately and add them to your helmet, jacket and trousers.
Putting a couple on the bike itself is a smart move, too.
Next time: Tips for safer riding