The Top 9 Accessories for Motorcycle Commuters
Many people ride motorcycles to work. For some, it’s a way to save on gas. For others, it’s a way to make the commute more enjoyable. Whatever your reason for commuting, you will need some essential pieces of gear. We’ve rounded up our top recommended accessories below. If you need any parts or service before your next ride, bring your bike to Crossroad Powersports near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Eye Protection
As you ride, your eyes are exposed to numerous issues. Wind dries them out. Dust can irritate them. Small chunks of debris can hit them. Guard your eyes so you can maintain focus on the road. If your helmet does not include a face shield, use a pair of sunglasses or riding goggles. Make sure they fit well with your helmet.
Gloves
To control your bike, you need adequate grip. Sweat, cold, and rain can all make it difficult to manipulate your controls. Riding gloves serve as a safeguard from the elements so your hands stay dry and functional. In the event you fall, gloves also help preserve your skin from cuts and scratches.
Boots
Riding puts your feet under a lot of strain. Engine heat blows on them. Kicked-up debris hits them. Wind beats against them. Rain soaks them. You need something more sturdy than a pair of beat-up tennis shoes. Riding boats provide the coverage you need (and the support you’ll want in the event you tip over and need to push yourself back up). Make sure your boots fit well. Tight boots quickly become aggravating on longer rides.
Neck Protection
You know that small spot on your neck between your helmet and your jacket? You probably don’t notice on short rides. But on longer rides, you quickly experience wind chill and irritation. Slap on a neckerchief, bandana, or neck shield to insulate your skin from the wind.
Rain Gear
It’s inevitable that you will eventually need to ride to work while there’s a bit of rain. But even a light drizzle can quickly leave you wet and chilled to the bone - not a great way to start or leave work. A rain suit insulates you from moisture, can be rolled up into a compact ball for easy storage, and can give you extra visibility on the road.
Storage Options
You need somewhere to store your lunch, laptop, briefcase, etc. Store your supplies in a cargo rack on the back, a trunk bag, or tank bag. Most motorcycles won’t provide enough storage for commuters, so you will likely need to buy additional storage. Once you load it up, always test to ensure everything is secure before heading out on the road.
Wind Protection
Facing the wind each day gets exhausting. Wind tires you out faster and makes you cold faster. A windshield keeps the wind (and some rain) at bay so you can better enjoy your ride.
Security
Anytime you park your bike in public, you run the risk of theft. Protect your motorcycle with security measures. Get a sturdy disc lock on your rear and front wheel.
Hearing Protection
As you ride your bike, you expose yourself to hearing damage. The sound of the wind while you cruise down the highway is loud enough to cause irreversible hearing loss. Defend against it with earplugs.
Your bike needs to be in top shape to get you to and from work each day. If you start to notice any issues with performance, bring it over to Crossroad Powersports. We are located in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania near Philadelphia. We also serve those in Wilmington, Delaware and Deptford Township, New Jersey.