When it comes to bike safety, passengers run the same risks as those who ride in front, so they should have the same options in protective gear—and they do. Riding gear from top manufacturers includes a wide assortment of features to fit any style and budget. From leather jackets and pants to sturdy boots, you can build your passenger wardrobe while shopping for OEM ATV parts or other bike needs. Here are the essential pieces to help safeguard those who ride behind you.
- Jackets
Men and women can choose from a variety of jackets in skin-saving materials that include leather, neoprene, Carbolex and more. Joe Rocket, Icon, Alpinestar are among the manufacturers who offer comfortable styles with thoughtful features. Zip-in liners are handy for colder weather, while back and shoulder vents keep you cool in warm weather. Waterproof hoods, removable armor and plenty of pouches for hands and valuables are bonus features.
- Helmets
Helmets are vital pieces of every rider’s wardrobe. Whether you like to ride off-road or on, it’s easy to find one to meet your needs when you shop the best motorcycle passenger helmets. A full-face helmet protects you from flying debris and bugs, while an open-face design might be right for passengers who want to feel the wind on their faces. Helmets are also available in modular, half-shell and sporty designs from well-known makers such as Bell, AFX and Arai. With lightweight yet supportive materials and vents to promote airflow, it’s not hard to find a comfortable fit.
- Pants
To help shield your passenger’s legs from the exhaust, take your pick of street pants, or consider chaps for easy-on and easy-off versatility. Snow pants are also available for cold-weather rides. KLIM has top-of-the-line pants with the latest fabric technologies and armor to guard against road rash. If your style is more casual, try Drayko riding jeans with performance lining and pockets for adding armor; their soft denim offers passengers the ultimate in comfort.
- Boots
Choose from boots that cover the leg up to the knee or styles that look like street shoes and take you from bike to home or business without breaking stride. Alpinestars has a Jam Air leather shoe that offers high-top protection and style, while Fly Street leather boots can go from biking to hiking. Or check out SidiDuna’s Gore-Tex motorcycle boots for breathable yet waterproof style. Look for them when you’re browsing OEM bike parts at your favorite online parts store.
- Gloves
Your passenger will appreciate the added protection of gloves on your rides. They can aid in gripping, and keep exposed hands from becoming stiff and painful in cold weather. Look for gloves with features such as stretch mesh finger gussets, padded knuckles and abrasion-resistant leather from Tour Master, Cortech, Moose Racing and more.
Sharing the Ride
Motorcycles can be as much fun for passengers as they are for primary riders, and sharing the road with a friend or loved one only adds to the enjoyment. Show your passengers how much you care by helping them select riding gear that can help safeguard them while riding with you.