The other day I was asked if I had ever ridden a motorcycle without a helmet. Well, the answer is yes. Not very far. I think it was up and down my street and that was as far as I went. That sense of freedom and vulnerability was exciting. That was a long time ago back in Oz. Where many motorcyclists would go out riding, just wearing a singlet, shorts and a pair of runners. I guess some still do.
Anyway, I know a lot of motorcyclists and some prefer little protection, and others require the whole hog. So what sets these riders apart? Confidence, skill, experience or maybe a factor or all three. And there is no right or wrong answer to what you do, but it has to be right for you and obviously legal.
I think the key is that you need to feel safe. But I also know that gear alone wont make you safe. You don’t become superhuman just because you are wearing it. Riding within your limits and always expect the unexpected on the road is vital. Knee down corner action should be saved for the race track, not the road.
The next time I’m out on the road I’ll be all comfortably suited and booted. The choice is yours…
