Every biker needs the proper gear for comfortable and safe rides. While there’s no end to the amount of gear you can pick up, it’s important to at least have the essentials. There are a few items that riders should not go without. We’ve rounded up the basics below. If you need to pick up new gear, stop by CalMoto European Motorcycles in Livermore and Mountain View, California. We can get you suited up and ready to ride.

Gloves

Gloves offer a few benefits. First, they make it easier to grip your handlebars. Any type of moisture can make your handlebars slippery, whether its sweat from the hot California sun or rain from the occasional drizzle. Wet hands struggle to hold the handlebars and to hit the controls. Gloves keep your hands dry. Second, they protect your hands from the outside. Your skin will be saved exposure to the glaring sun or bitter winds. Any flying debris won’t scratch your skin. Try to find gloves that fit snug (bulky gloves makes it difficult to hit the smaller buttons and knobs).

Boots

Never wear open-toed shoes when riding a bike! You open yourself up to sunburns, scratches from debris, or more serious injury in case of a fall. Plus exposing your skin to the heat from the engine or wet rain gets real uncomfortable real fast. Boots help protect your feet so you can ride longer. Try to find some sturdy boots. These will come in handy if your bike ever tips over (it’s happened to the best of us). You can buy special motorcycle boots or just heavy duty work boots.

Outerwear

Yes, it gets hot in California. But you will still want clothing that covers up any exposed skin. Otherwise, you’ll end up just getting sunburn or windburn. You can find lightweight breathable material that offers the protection you need without making the ride unbearably hot. You’ll want both a top and riding pants. Remember that your legs are also exposed to engine heat from your bike and road debris, so they need full length protection.

Neckerchief

There’s a small patch of skin between the top of your shirt and the bottom of your helmet. It may not seem like much. But as you ride with it exposed, it will become uncomfortable real fast between the sun and wind beating down on it. All you need is a neckerchief or bandana (or if you want to get real fancy, a purpose-built neck shield). Plus it can help you cool down on those hot summer days. Just put some water on it and enjoy cooling relief to your hot skin.

Bike Helmet

This is the most important piece of motorcycle gear you can buy. As a result, this is not a place you want to skimp. Think of it as an investment in your health and safety. Dedicate the time necessary to research and find the best fit. Look at numerous brands and styles. Try on multiple helmets. Go into a store and get a knowledgeable employee to double check the fit. A helmet that doesn’t fit quite right won’t be able to protect you as much in the event of a crash. Well built helmets will be accredited by a crash test rating agency, so look for that in any options you check out.

Eye Protection

You will want to protect your eyes from wind, sun glare, and kicked up debris. Some helmets come with a face shield. These work well! If your helmet doesn’t include this option, you’ll need some sunglasses or riding goggles. Look for UV protection to get even better protection.

Ready to buy new gear? Head on over to CalMoto European Motorcycles in Livermore and Mountain View, California. We can help you find the right fit and brands for your unique riding needs.