The Best Motorcycle Gear & Accessories in 2024

What exactly is motorcycle riding gear? Is it really important? Why do people make a lot of fuss about it?

Well, these are the questions that come to mind at some point in your life or at the beginning days of your motorcycle riding life. Some motorcycle riders even believe that a single helmet is more than enough to protect ourselves riding on the road.

But, is it really possible?

I mean, how can a helmet protect your hands, arms, legs, and back? Because, as far as I know, when somebody faces a major or minor accident, there is more than a 90 percent chance that a person can hurt his/her legs, hands, shoulder, or any other part of the body, including the head.

Not just that, let’s suppose, you went for a ride and suddenly it started raining. What would you do if you are in your normal tee and jeans?

Can casual or daily wear apparel provide you with weather protection?

Well, I don’t think so. That’s why, despite the lack of interest of many motorcycle riders, we made this guide, which particularly focuses on the must-have motorcycle gear and accessories that you will need from the very moment you buy your motorcycle. And let me remind you, this guide is not specific to daily commuters, off-road racers, or street riders, but to all motorcycle riders who own a motorcycle and go on rides. Whether it is on a daily basis, weekly, or a few times a year. It doesn’t matter.

Because you can never know when you will be involved in an accident. So, let’s understand the reason behind “Why we need motorcycle riding gear?”

Popular Motorcycle Gear & Accessories

Motorcycle Helmets

A helmet is the only piece of equipment that can protect you from head, face, and neck injuries, which you can get from an accident. Plus, the helmet also blocks wind, debris, bugs, and harmful dust particles that are in the air and can distract you from riding. So, no one can deny that it is important to have the best safety motorcycle helmet that can help you to prevent such circumstances and you can enjoy your ride fully.

But, before choosing any helmet you must figure out a few things, such as,

What you ride?

Where you ride most often?

What type of helmet are you looking for?

Even though these are different questions, all three questions are connected to each other.

Let’s see, how?

First, you need to know that there are different types of motorcycle helmets available on the market, such as full-face, modular, dirt bike, open face, and half-shell helmet. Each type of helmet plays a different role and can be chosen for different styles of riding.

Second, let’s find out how each helmet is different from the other and how each one serves its purpose in the style of riding.

Full-Face:

These helmets provide protection to the head, face, and chin areas. They offer maximum protection, average comfort, and poor airflow.

Modular:

The modular helmet is just like a full-face helmet and can be called a “flip-up” helmet. You can lift the face shield along with the chin bar to use as an open-face helmet. They offer average to maximum protection, very good comfort, and average airflow.

Dirt Bike:

A Dirt Bike helmet is primarily used for off-road riding and motocross racing. It provides extra protection needed for this sport and has a partially open face to use a pair of goggles to keep dirt and mud out of the eyes. They offer maximum protection, and pretty good comfort and airflow.

Open-Face:

These helmets offer protection to the full top and to the back area of the head and face but leave the chin area entirely open. They provide average protection, good comfort, and very good airflow.

Half-Shell:

Half-Shell helmets offer minimum protection to the rider and that would be in the upper head area only. It leaves the face, chin, and the back of the head area wide open. And it is usually held by a nylon strap. These helmets offer very low protection, but maximum airflow and they are very comfortable to wear.

Helmet Durability:

A helmet like the rest of the products has a limited life of around 5 years, give or take. It has an EPS Impact absorption material, which absorbs heavy impacts during a crash and dissipates energy into the liner, instead of transferring it to your head area. So, it is also very important to know “how to take good care of a motorcycle helmet?”

Oh, yeah! One more thing.

Maybe the best for last. While browsing motorcycle safety helmets, don’t forget to check the compliance to safety standards like ECE 22.05, Snell, and DOT. These are the safety standards that your preferred helmet must meet – at least, one of them.

I am sure now you have an idea of the types of motorcycle helmets and how to easily choose the right helmet. Nevertheless, to get the full information about motorcycle helmets, you can go to the link below to get more informative content regarding the best motorcycle helmets. You can read more at Best Motorcycle Helmet Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Motorcycle Jackets

Shopping for motorcycle jackets is no different from shopping for motorcycle helmets. In both cases, you need to find the right equipment that is not only protective but comfortable as well. So, first, you need to consider the type of bike you ride. For example, a racing biker requires a motorcycle jacket that provides protection to the elbows, shoulders, back and chest areas. But, a daily commuter may require something that is more comfortable and can provide both weather and crash protection. Weather protection is as important as crash protection because, if you ride in rainy weather or cold weather more frequently, then you need a motorcycle jacket that can give you waterproof solutions in rain and protection from freezing cold during winter days.

Most motorcycle jackets are made of two common fabrics: Leather and Textile.

On one hand, the leather motorcycle jackets give you the “Classic Look” that you desire most. On the other hand, textile jackets are more comfortable and equipped with a lot of features like Gore-Tex, water-resistant membranes, body armor, zippers, and air-vents. So, it is important to determine your highest priority while looking for this motorcycle protective equipment. So, it would be better to take into account factors, such as protection, features, comfort, and style.

Leather jackets are good for cruiser riders, street motorcycle riders, and daily commuters. Leather motorcycle jackets have breathable fabric and are thick enough to provide abrasion protection. You can cruise everywhere in leather motorcycle jackets with style. But, if you are into street riding or a motocross racer, then textile motorcycle jackets will be the right choice for you.

As I said before, Textile Motorcycle Jackets are equipped with many features. These jackets can withstand high-speed wind blasts, seal out the cold air, and let cool air enter through zip vents. Not only that, they have body armor, which most likely includes a CE safety rating that protects your elbows, shoulders, chest, and back. Textile jackets can be used for motorcycling track racing, off-road trails, and both winter and summer riding.

To get more details, you can see the complete buyer’s guide to Best Motorcycle Jackets Review.

Motorcycle Boots

There is a saying among motorcyclists, “Wear what you want to crash in, not what you want to ride in.”

So, it would be smart to drop the idea of wearing slippers or sneakers while riding a motorcycle because you are not on a picnic or walking the streets. On the contrary, you are taking part in a dangerous activity, which requires that you take certain precautions if you want to save yourself from any serious injury. The ‘Motorcycle Riding Boot’ is the perfect example to explain all of this. If you think that carrying a safety helmet or wearing a motorcycle leather jacket will be enough to safely ride, then you are completely wrong.

Let me remind you, even a minor accident can break bones. To remind you of what can happen to your legs in case of a crash, recall your childhood days when we fell off the stairs, slipped on oily surfaces, or broke a leg in a football game. Well, a motorcycle crash can be way worse than any of these examples. So, don’t forget to check for a non-slippery sole, strong heel, and strong ankle support.

Particularly, armor protection over the ankle areas if you are racing and off-road riding quite frequently. Nevertheless, to go into the details of “How to choose the right motorcycle boots?” you can check out the complete buyer’s guide of Best Motorcycle Boots Review.

Motorcycle Gloves

Whenever you go shopping for motorcycle riding gloves always remember, “Your hands are the first to come in contact with the surface in any crash.”

Motorcycle Gloves come in three or four common styles: Street Bike Gloves, Textile Gloves, and Off-Road Gloves. You might choose from these on the basis of your requirement. Depending on your type of ride and the terrain you ride on more often, you can choose the right pair of gloves that will provide a waterproofing solution in heavy rain or abrasion protection in the event of a crash.

The pair of gloves you choose must be comfortable while riding, whether you ride in cold weather or in a competition. And to do that, you can prioritize your needs while shopping for gloves. It will help you to get the required type of performance you need from your gloves in a price range that you can afford.

Motorcycle Pants

I hate to say this, but if you think that wearing a motorcycle helmet, jacket, boots, and gloves will give you absolute protection then you are still completely wrong.

Tell me, “How will your motorcycle helmet or jacket protect your legs and buttock in case of a crash?”

I know you must be wondering, “What a silly question to ask?”

Then you should wonder no longer. Why don’t you get yourself a pair of riding pants that will complete the protection?

Right?

So, understand the importance of riding pants because riding pants will not only provide protection in case of a crash but also will protect you from abrasions in minor crashes and fall-offs.

And hold on! If you think that your normal pair of jeans will do just fine since they are made of heavy denim, then you must understand that if a pair of jeans is sufficient then why do big brands and companies focus on manufacturing riding pants.

The best motorcycle riding pants are equipped with CE armor in the hips, shins, and knees. These riding pants are also very comfortable to stand, walk, and sit on a motorcycle for a long duration. They are properly designed to provide protection, comfort, and ventilation. Unlike jeans, armor riding pants are seamlessly built for superior comfort and have maximum breathability to keep you dry at all times.

Also, the highest-quality motorcycle riding pants are constructed from 100 percent recyclable, environmentally-friendly material.

Motorcycle Goggles

Motorcycle goggles are considered as necessary equipment for motorcycle riding among riders that ride on cruisers more often and prefer to use open-face or half-shell safety helmets. Goggles help to keep the dust and sand at bay. If you also use a helmet without a visor or windshield but haven’t used any goggles, then you probably haven’t given them much thought.

So, I would suggest you consider wearing goggles because there are many benefits that you may or may not be aware of. Motorcycle goggles not only provide protection from heavy wind and dust particles but also from insects, glare, and heat.

Using Sunglasses not only protects you from harmful UV rays but also maintains full visibility in the excessive heat and glare of the sun in the summertime. Plus, if you ride on off-road terrains quite frequently, you’ve already realized “how necessary goggles are for riding a dirt bike on off-road.”

Most dirt bike riders and racers have been using wrap-around goggles that provide full enclosure and don’t fall off easily. On top of that, these goggles can withstand heavy winds.

So, don’t think about it too much; as I said before if you don’t have any goggles, then get a pair right now.

Must-Have Motorcycle Accessories

Bluetooth Communication

A Bluetooth headset is a very important accessory that I believe we all must have while riding a motorcycle. Imagine you are on the road riding your motorcycle and suddenly receive an important call. You can stop on the side of the road to receive it but it will be difficult when you are stuck in huge traffic. Even if you somehow manage to stop and receive the call, you will still lose precious time while you are stopped.

But, if you use a Bluetooth headset while riding; instead of stopping, you can actually receive the call without taking your hand off the handlebar to get your phone and, at the same time, continue on your ride.

A Bluetooth headset allows you to take calls and listen to music, even while riding. These communication units are wireless and can attach to the allocated space outside of your motorcycle helmet. So, with a single tap, you can turn on your intercom system and start talking.

Overall, I can say that a Bluetooth headset is a very reliable accessory to use while riding your motorcycle. If you ever feel the need for a communication device, then you should definitely go for it. Fortunately, this guide shows you some of the best motorcycle Bluetooth headset systems that are quite popular these days and can easily fit your existing motorcycle helmet.

Motorcycle Phone & Navigation Mount

Now that you have a Bluetooth communication system, there is another accessory that is needed for your motorcycle. And that is a Motorcycle Phone & GPS Mount.

You’ve determined that a Bluetooth headset is a very important device to receive and make calls while riding.

But, what if you need to see a map?

Will you try to reach in your pocket to get your handheld device?

Or stop by the side of the road and take the time to look at the map.

Either way, it will be risky and a waste of time to reach in your pocket and stand by the side of the road. That’s why you need a motorcycle phone mount to keep your phone mounted in front of your eyes at the proper viewing angle, so that whenever you are required to use the navigation tools or guidance you can reach out to your phone without any compromise to your riding. And you can enjoy your ride without any worries about going off-track.

So, don’t forget to use a phone and GPS mount whenever you go for a ride. If you don’t have one, then you should get yourself one now.

“Don’t forget to consider the size of your motorcycle handlebar and the size and model of your handheld device before choosing a phone mount.”

For full details on “How to Shop for the Right Motorcycle Phone Mount,” you can check out the Best Motorcycle Phone Mount Reviews, which is a complete buyer’s guide for people who are in need of a motorcycle phone and GPS mount.

Motorcycle Backpacks

I have to be honest; I’ve noticed that several motorcycle riders aren’t giving any importance to motorcycle backpacks. They believe that you don’t need any special backpack for your motorcycle. In fact, they can just use their normal backpack for that purpose, especially in the case of daily commuters.

But, that’s wrong. This is why many big riding equipment companies noticed this and began designing backpacks specifically made for motorcycles. For long trips and holiday vacations, you can use saddlebags but for daily commutes, you need a backpack that can store all your stuff in style and is made of heavy-duty fabric.

So, if you need any help in choosing the right motorcycle backpack, then you can take a look at the best motorcycle backpacks to buy while relaxing on your couch. We wrote this easy guide for you to select the right backpack to store all your needs.

Motorcycle Oil & Fluids

We all know that over-heating and friction are the worst enemies of machines. The same thing can be applied to motorcycles. Notwithstanding its plastic and rubber parts, a motorcycle contains metal components like the engine, transmission parts, and other components that are subjected to extensive operation and are quite costly too.

So, as a motorcycle rider, it is also our job to take full care of the machinery part of our motorcycles. This is why we must give proper attention to tuning and lubrication. In fact, lubrication is the most important of the two because this is something we can easily do without any special knowledge that will extend the life of the engine and the transmission.

Remember, you can’t eliminate the friction and overheating problem of your engine with the servicing of the motorcycle; you can only reduce it. And for that, you need motorcycle oil and lubrication products like engine oil, transmission fluid, chain lube, and other fluids that are made for these specific purposes.

An engine is the most important part of a motorcycle where lubrication is required. Otherwise, too much friction will wear out the engine. So, use engine oil to provide proper lubrication to the engine components. Engine oil will not only offer lubrication but the detergent additives can remove the contaminants from the engine components and suspensions. You can replace the engine oil as per your requirement.

Generally, three types of engine oil are available on the market, i.e., Conventional, Synthetic, and Semi-Synthetic.

If you need any guidance in that area then you can check out the complete buyer’s guide to choose the right engine oil for your motorbike, which is available at TopMoto.com.

Another part of the motorcycle that needs proper replacement of lubrication from time to time is the motorcycle drive chain.

And why do we need this?

Answer: To maintain the motorcycle drive chain and to extend the bike’s life and performance.

It would be best if you get into a habit of lubricating the chain on a regular basis because friction in the drive chain can affect motorcycle riding and damage the metal parts like the chain and sprocket and eventually decrease its life.

So, get the best motorcycle chain lube from the market to lubricate the chain to extend the life of your bike just by taking a few minutes to service the bike. We have shown a few high-quality chain lubes below. You can go through these products and check if one of them is compatible with the chain type of your motorcycle.

Motorcycle Cover

It seems like we’ve discussed the main aspects that required a good discussion on the importance of motorcycle equipment that we need while riding and miscellaneous equipment and accessories to maintain and lengthen the life of our motorcycle.

But, what about when we are not riding it?

How do we protect our motorcycle from the elements when we are not using it?

We already know about the importance of wearing motorcycle rain gear while riding in harsh weather conditions. But, we also need to figure out how to protect our motorcycle from harmful UV rays, dust, dirt, and debris mixed with wind and other elements that can damage a parked vehicle when we are not using it.

This is why you need another accessory for your motorcycle, which can protect it from harsh weather and can provide a waterproof solution as well.

That’s why a motorcycle cover is required when it’s needed most. So, what do you think?

Can you ignore this one?

Of course not.

Because a good quality motorcycle cover is the reason that motorcycles are fully protected, even when we are not using it.

So, you better get a motorcycle cover for your motorcycle. It is the only way to keep it dry and safe. Make sure you consider some essential factors in your decision, such as size, protection level, material, and security.

There is a good collection of motorcycle covers that are available on the market, which you can check out and purchase the one that is perfect for your beloved motorcycle.

To get more details on “how to choose the right cover for a motorcycle,” you can see our complete buyer’s guide to the Best Motorcycle Covers.

Importance of Motorcycle Riding Gear

Generally, it was surveyed that many motorcyclists prefer to wear a motorcycle helmet only because it is required by law. But, in truth, a motorcycle helmet is not the only piece of equipment that provides crash protection. You can also get this function with a riding jacket, gloves, boots, and riding pants, which are specifically designed for the same reason.

Moreover, these specialized apparel and equipment also serve the purpose of weather protection and appearance.

A motorcycle jacket, boots, or gloves are made to protect the human body from harsh weather, abrasion, and crashes. Otherwise, it is not an easy task riding a motorcycle when you are riding at speeds of 60 km/h to 100 km/h.

Unlike car drivers, motorcycle riders face great dangers in terms of heavy wind, rain, UV rays, and accidental injuries. So, it is irresponsible to ride a motorcycle without any personal protective equipment.

Think about it!

What would happen to you if you get hit by a car at the speed of 70-80 km/h?

I don’t think you would like to imagine such a thing. But, it is important to realize that wearing motorcycle riding gear will only help to protect you.

And it is applicable to everyone. Whether you are a street rider or a sports bike rider, hitting something hard can seriously hurt you or kill you if you don’t take the necessary precautions.

Here’s the thing! If you believe that you are quite skillful as a pro motorcycle rider and think you don’t need riding gear, even a helmet, then you are not a PRO!

Only full riding gear can help you to avoid severe injuries in case of an accident.

Final Thoughts

Motorcycle riding equipment wasn’t developed very much previously. But, over time, many more people are using motorcycles. The result, traffic is increasing day by day. It’s very, very hard to even imagine how much it will increase in the next few years. As much as I hate to say this, but it is becoming very dangerous to ride on the roads today and we have to try every possible way to protect ourselves when we are out there. There is no shame in putting on all the protective riding gear. On the contrary, it will only show how cautious you are about your safety. So, never say no to any piece of protective riding equipment and make sure you wear it whenever you’re riding your motorcycle.

I hope this guide helps you to understand the importance of protective motorcycle riding equipment and accessories. If you have any questions, then please don’t hesitate to mention it in the comment section below.