A regular visitor to the Arrive Alive website sent an email titled “Bike Accident” and, expecting the worst, I opened the attached image only to find that this was send “tongue in cheek” and the incident captured on camera did not result in any physical injury!
It is very important that we keep emphasizing the importance of motorbike safety – and use every opportunity to urge bikers to wear their personal protective clothing!
What is the purpose of protective gear for bikers/ motorcyclists?
* Improved Visibility — Many riders choose higher-visibility gear. Bright colors and retro reflective strips are common on quality equipment and make the riders more visible to other road users such as motorists, truck drivers and even pedestrians.
* Abrasion Resistance — Thick, tough leather provides the most abrasion resistance in a crash, but fabrics such as cordura, kevlar and ballistic nylon provide significant protection too. In addition, fabrics are generally cheaper, easier to maintain, waterproof, and more comfortable in hot weather. Thick leather, which affords the most abrasion resistance, can be uncomfortable in high temperatures, may cause heat stress & loss of control with insufficient fluid replacement. Some gear is constructed of fabrics made into a ‘mesh’ that provides cooling and a stable surface for the attachment of padding
* Padding — Quality jackets and pants provide significant extra padding in the vulnerable joint regions. This can take the form of simple foam padding, or dual-density foam that stiffens when compressed, sometimes with plastic or carbon fiber outer-shells that distribute the impact across the pad. Integrated pieces can be found in some jackets.
* Weather Protection — an important aspect of protective clothing is protection from the elements. Extreme weather can make a long ride unbearable or dangerous. Gear needs to provide protection from wind, rain and cold.
Remember ATGATT – All The Gear All the Time
Also view:
Motorbike and Quad Bike Insurance
- Motorcycle Safety
- Motorcycle Accident Cause Factors
- 101 Steps to Motorcycle Safety
- Training OTRE
- Motorcycle Insurance