You only need to watch a television commercial for a new car to see that each month, car companies come up with a new and advanced safety measures and features. The same, unfortunately, is not true when it comes to motorcycles.

Need to Have Motorcycle Safety Gear

When motorcycle riders are concerned, how safe they are as they ride depends on their riding style and the safety gear they choose to wear. For this post, Bill Rigdon AMSOIL Dealer has information to share on essential items of motorcycle safety gear.

Motorcycle Helmet

Easily the most important safety item for any motorcycle rider is their helmet. However, not all helmets were created equal, and not all helmets were created for you. Don't just go for the newest or the most expensive. Instead, try on a few types and find one you like. Remember that this your helmet is there to protect you, not massage you as you ride. With this in mind, find a fit that sits securely but is also comfortable. Speak with a representative at the motorcycle store if in doubt.

Motorcycle Jacket

When looking for a motorcycle jacket, there are a few things to keep in mind to help get one which will last the distance. Consider these tips when researching:

• Motorcycle jackets include elbow reinforcements. However, some jackets continue this reinforcement down the forearm, offering extra protection.
• Look for a jacket which is waterproof, not just water-resistant. While a cheaper water-resistant jacket may seem appealing at the point of purchase, when it really starts to rain, you will regret not spending the extra few dollars.
• Make sure that it's made from quality materials and is well constructed. In the event of an accident, the quality of the material and how well it is held together play a large role in how well you are protected.
• It is important to remember that not all jackets can survive more than one accident. Not that you should expect to have multiple accidents, however, if multiple uses is important to you then it is something you should consider before buying.

To keep your motorcycle performing at its best, use only high-quality synthetic lubricants like those available from Bill Rigdon AMSOIL Dealer. Speak with Bill Rigdon AMSOIL Dealer at (503) 329-9004 to get the right engine oil for you and to learn more about the benefits of a synthetic oil change in Gladstone.

Motorcycle Gloves

If you were to sit on a seat and rock side to side until you fell over, you would instinctively put your hands out to brace yourself for a fall. The same thing happens in a motorcycle accident.

• Look for gloves which are made from strong and high-quality materials and which are stitched together well.
• How well your gloves grip the handles and levers can determine the safety of your ride. Make sure that you can grip the controls easily and securely.
• Similar to the jacket, be sure the gloves are water proof and not just resistant.

Motorcycle Pants

If you are looking in your closet at a pair of jeans and you are considering wearing them for a ride, then you will need to think again.

• Similar to your jacket and gloves, look for the high-quality materials and secure construction. Remember that motorcycle pants are a safety item, not a comfortable pair or gym pants.
• Motorcycle pants include reinforcements around the knee joint. However, some styles extend this down the riders legs, offering additional safety.
• Remember that you will be wearing these in the heat, so look for pants which are breathable and can manage temperatures.
• In saying that, you will also be riding in the rain. Again, look for water-proof, not water-resistant.
• Keep in mind the gadgets you carry around with you and look for pants which can accommodate. When you try on pants, get on the bike and make sure everything is easily accessible.

Motorcycle Boots

One of the first parts of your body to come in contact with the road in an accident are your feet. So get rid of the gym shoes and protect your feet.

• Try to bend and twist the boots you are trying. Given that they will be housing your feet in an accident, the more flexible they are, the more damage your foot is likely to see.
• Look for boots which offer both foot and ankle support. If the boot doesn't cover your ankle, then it's not a motorcycle boot.
• Check out the grip on the bottom to make sure it's not going to slip in the rain. This is not just important for when you are riding, but also when you're walking in your gear.
• Get the right size. If you're in doubt, speak with a rep at the store. When checking your size, remember that these aren't supposed to be comfortable sneakers, they're supposed to protect you.

Give Your Motorcycle a Synthetic Oil Change in Gladstone

Now that you're on your way to riding safely, it's important to keep your bike in good shape. Speak with Bill Rigdon AMSOIL Dealer at (503) 329-9004 and ask about how giving your bike a synthetic oil change can increase its performance, minimize engine wear, and extend its lifespan.