The other day, much to my surprise, a friend of mine who I had no idea was interested, asked for my advice on the best big scooter to buy. We had an interesting discussion on the subject, the under 600cc classes, etc. A few days later, he informed me he had purchased one. I congratulated him on his acquisition… I would have bought a used one, but he bought it new… good. The conversation went on to the equipment and to my dismay, besides the mandatory helmet, he did not have any equipment! Ouch!
The helmet: Mandatory, but again? The helmet serves to cushion impact and to protect from abrasions when hitting the ground. Once the helmet ‘’has served its purpose’’, we should throw it out. Like an inflatable cushion, it is only effective once. Between the high performance fibre and expensive helmets, and the less expensive polycarbonate helmets, I prefer the polycarbonate ones, because for a biker, it offers better protection in certain situations. In general, it is the protection inside the helmet that deteriorates, regardless of price. Personally, I prefer the polycarbonate (non-integral) ‘’jet’’ helmet with a sun shade and visor for the eyes. Thanks to its affordable price, I replace my helmets regularly, never more than two years or before replacing a visor.
Eye protection: In several American states, where wearing a helmet is optional, wearing of eye protection is mandatory. Why? While the helmet protects in the event of a fall, eye protection prevents accidents caused by debris in the eyes. Yes, I once took an insect in an eye… and lost a contact lens riding in the rain. It’s not easy to stop safely in these situations. The glasses must be impact proof… and there again, I prefer helmets with a visor.
The gloves: I am always amazed to see some motorcyclists riding with all the leather equipment, but bare hands! Having experienced the passionate embrace of Lady asphalt, I always ride with gloves on. Actually, in my little ‘‘road kit’’, I have at least three pairs of gloves: lightweight ones, warm ones and waterproof ones. I also have a container of talcum powder (baby powder or foot powder that I use when my hands are wet to facilitate putting on rain gloves.
The suit: For a novice motorcyclist, or occasional motorcyclist, denim remains the best protection-price ratio. But it’s best to avoid tight jeans that ‘‘are busting on the body’’ of certain lady motorcyclists. The kevlar-denim pant is a better option for those who like wearing jeans and offers a better protection than regular jeans. In addition to the pant, you need a vest that will protect the elbows and shoulders from abrasions. For optimal protection, the full motorcycle suit is the best. Many options exists: 1 piece, 2 piece, leather or textile…
The boots? It’s not because they are made of leather that they are good! In addition to being comfortable and protecting the ankle and abrasions, the boot must allow for the foot to be placed solidly on the ground in order to support the weight of the bike. But the boot must also be easy to put on. In fact, if the boot is difficult to use or uncomfortable, you will hesitate to wear it, whether just to go to the convenience store or to wear it all day at work. Furthermore, it is within a 30-km radius from the house that most accidents happen. Think about it, when you jump on your mount to go out to buy bread at the convenience store.
Luc Père Bleu Brière
