Much of the all-too-famous romantic imagery associated with motorcycling is in itself entirely responsible for a high number of unfair misconceptions and negative connotations attached to the pursuit.
One of the common images likely to spring to the minds of most upon the mention of a biker, is that of a group of tattooed, longhaired, helmetless men cruising in formation down an open highway.
While this may be an entirely attractive image in the eyes of some, or even a realistic representation of many bikers past and present- most motorcyclists would resent such an image, or rather stereotype as being demonstrative of their illustrious, historically relevant and noble interest.
The reality is that motorcycling has moved on. Long gone are the days of the outward rejection of full face helmets and other now essential pieces of safety equipment.
Nowadays helmets for motorcycles are available in great, and I mean great abundance- and are by far the safest and most diverse they have ever been.
From half face helmets to open face helmets and modular helmets you’re unlikely to get far on any trip without being in possession of some form of head safety gear.
The ability to travel freely and in reputable style is one of the great attractions of owning a motorcycle, with millions of people worldwide gradually beginning to see past the stereotypes and making the leap from four wheels to two.
Though previously maybe a taboo of sorts among prominent biker factions, adorning a helmet while atop ones hog is an entirely necessary pursuit these days. If not only within the wider confines of safety and of the law, but as part of the wider image associated with all modern variations of the sport.
It is estimated that the utilization of helmets for motorcycles can act to reduce the risk of injury by as much as 70%. Given that motorcyclists are the road users most highly prone to harm, it is not too difficult to gauge just how essential head protection is, and always has been if intending to conduct yourself safely in the eyes of the law, not to mention fellow motorists.
The helmet is an item that should undoubtedly rank highly on any motorcyclists list of priorities. Alongside an array of equally essential items which should be absent from no bike trip itinerary, no journey should be made without first protecting your head. And, while this sounds completely obvious, you’d simply be astounded by the number of motorcyclists who are killed or injured each years as a result of their complacency when it comes to personal safety
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Though a concept somewhat retired over the course of the last few decades, motorcycle based travel is as do-able as it has ever been. Many would contest their urge to go out alone on the road on the basis that it’s ‘all been done before’, however this is simply not the case.
Hitting the road atop a powerful motorbike is an experience shared by a select few people, all of whom can in turn vouch for its unique nature.