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Safety equipment when riding a motorcycle is crucial, especially when considering how much the vehicle differs from others on the road. Obviously, a rider has no protective ‘shell’, or even a seatbelt around them – therefore the dangers are quite evident. A good helmet is perhaps the most essential of all safety equipment – it protects the biker from any brain trauma that may be caused from a crash, yet also serves to protect the skull in general. The protective visor also shields the face from anything that may fly up towards the face, which is likely when driving at high speed.
The jacket is another indispensable part of the motorcyclist’s attire. In most cases, the jackets are leather, and it is generally agreed that buying a higher quality jacket essentially decreases the possibility of serious harm to the body. ‘Armoured’ jackets are available, which have extra padding and prevent ‘road rash’, a common injury suffered by riders who crash, and resultantly slide across the concrete. Gloves and boots (both usually leather) work in the same way as the jacket, ostensibly acting as reinforced protection for the body’s more vulnerable areas. The boots in particular should be good quality and heat resistant – the nature of riding a motorcycle means the legs and feet are extremely close to the engine, meaning intense heat can be generated, which needs to be protected against.
As briefly mentioned previously, in order to ride a motorcycle, insurance is required. It is up to the owner of the vehicle to arrange this. Third party insurance is the cheapest (as with car insurance) yet it will only cover injuries or damage to others involved in an accident, and not to the owner of the insurance. Fire & Theft insurance covers the owner’s bike from being set on fire or stolen – however it will also cover any third party. Fully comprehensive insurance will cover any repairs that are required to the owner’s bike after an accident – even if no other vehicles were involved. This is by far the most expensive insurance however. |
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