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Suit up...    October 17, 2014

Suit up...

Added on: October 17, 2014
Source: SAAQ
Motorcyclists and scooter operators are vulnerable on the road. The only protection you can count on is your clothing, so regardless of the weather, you should always wear gear that is adapted to this type of transportation.

One of the most common problems in accidents involving motorcyclists and scooter riders is that other motorists do not see them. Choose clothing in light colours or with reflective strips.

CLOTHING

Choose your clothing based on the protection offered in case of a fall or collision. Certain materials provide better protection against abrasion during a fall. In addition, some gear has integrated or removable protection that can reduce the risk of injury.

Clothing adapted to weather conditions (rain, wind, cold or heat) helps give you an optimum level of comfort and thus, stay alert and maintain your ability to react.

Lastly, your clothing should be well adjusted and comfortable.

JACKETS

Choose a jacket made of leather or made with an anti-abrasive material such as Kevlar or Cordura. Avoid other synthetic materials (polyester, nylon, etc.), because they can burn the skin in a fall.

For greater safety, your jacket should be equipped with back protection and reinforced elbows and shoulders. For the last few years, some manufacturers have been offering vests with inflatable cushions that are designed to absorb shocks during a fall.

GLOVES

If you fall, your hands often absorb the impact first, so gloves are essential. Make sure that the gloves are reinforced in the joints and palms, and that they completely cover your hands and wrists. They should also be waterproof and protect your fingers, and supple enough that they don’t interfere with using the controls.

FOOTWEAR

Choose boots specifically designed for motorcycles. They should be waterrepellent to ensure maximum comfort. In addition, they need to have good grip and cover your ankles.

HELMETS

In Québec, motorcycle helmets are mandatory. They must comply with standards in the Regulation respecting protective helmets (CSA, DOT, ANSI, SNELL, BSI, ECE).

Full-face helmets offer better protection since they cover the entire head. If your helmet doesn’t have a visor, safety goggles are recommended to protect your eyes. Visors also protect you from bad weather, as well as wind.

IMPORTANT: Helmets need to be properly adjusted and securely fastened by a chin strap.

It is a good idea to replace your helmet according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. However, if your helmet has sustained a violent impact, the shell or lining may have been damaged even if you can’t see it, so you should replace it.

To improve your visibility, choose a light-coloured helmet. You can also apply a reflective strip, although before doing so, you should consult the manufacturer’s instructions.

PANTS

Your pants should cover your legs entirely and be made of anti-abrasive materials such as leather, Kevlar or Cordura. For greater safety, they can be equipped with protectors.

YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY AS A MOTORCYCLIST OR SCOOTER OPERATOR.
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