What Do You Legally Have to Wear on a Motorbike in the UK?

Riding a motorbike is an exhilarating experience, offering freedom and adventure on the open road. However, it's crucial to understand the legal requirements for what you must wear while riding a motorbike in the UK. This ensures not only your safety but also compliance with the law. In this blog post, we will delve into the legal necessities and recommended gear for motorcyclists, with a particular focus on motorcycle gloves.

Legal Requirements

Helmet

The most critical piece of equipment that you are legally required to wear when riding a motorbike in the UK is a helmet. According to UK law, all riders and pillion passengers must wear a helmet that meets British safety standards (BS 6658:1985) or European standards (ECE 22.05). The helmet should be securely fastened and fit properly to provide maximum protection.

Eye Protection

While not strictly mandated by law, eye protection is highly recommended. Many helmets come with built-in visors that offer adequate protection against wind, debris, and insects. If your helmet does not have a visor, consider wearing goggles or other forms of eye protection.

Recommended Gear

Although not legally required, several pieces of protective gear are strongly advised for anyone riding a motorbike. These items can significantly reduce the risk of injury in case of an accident.

Motorcycle Gloves

Motorcycle gloves are essential for protecting your hands from abrasions and impacts during an accident. They also offer better grip and control over your bike's handlebars. When choosing motorcycle gloves, look for ones made from durable materials like leather or Kevlar, which provide excellent abrasion resistance.

Why Are Motorcycle Gloves Important?

1. Protection: In case of an accident, your hands are often the first point of contact with the ground. Quality motorcycle gloves can protect against severe injuries.

2. Grip: Gloves improve your grip on the handlebars, especially in wet conditions.

3. Comfort: Long rides can be taxing on your hands; gloves provide cushioning and reduce fatigue.

4. Weather Protection: Gloves can protect your hands from extreme weather conditions like cold or rain.

Jackets

A good-quality motorcycle jacket is another essential piece of gear that offers protection against abrasions and impacts. Jackets made from leather or textile materials often come with built-in armour at key points like shoulders, elbows, and back.

Trousers

Motorcycle trousers provide additional protection for your lower body. Like jackets, they should be made from durable materials and ideally include armour at critical points like knees and hips.

Boots

Proper footwear is crucial when riding a motorbike. Motorcycle boots offer better grip on footpegs and protect your feet and ankles in case of an accident.

Additional Considerations

High-Visibility Clothing

While not legally required, wearing high-visibility clothing can make you more noticeable to other road users, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.

Body Armour

Body armour provides additional protection for vital areas such as chest and spine. Some jackets come with built-in armour; however, separate body armour can offer enhanced protection.

Legal Implications

Failing to comply with legal requirements such as wearing an approved helmet can result in penalties including fines or points on your driving licence. Moreover, non-compliance may affect any insurance claims you might need to make following an accident.

Race Leathers Motorcycle Gear

Understanding what you legally have to wear on a motorbike in the UK is crucial for both safety and compliance with the law. While helmets are mandatory by law, other protective gear like motorcycle gloves are highly recommended to ensure maximum safety while riding.

Investing in quality protective gear may seem costly initially, but considering the potential risks involved in motorcycling, it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and safety on the road.

By adhering to these guidelines and recommendations, you can enjoy your ride knowing that you are well protected against potential hazards while staying within legal boundaries.

Check out our full range of products, such as motorcycle clothing, motorcycle boots, motorcycle helmets, motorcycle gloves, motorcycle suits, motorcycle jackets and motorcycle trousers, which are available online or by visiting our Darwen store today. If you have any questions regarding any of our ranges, please call our customer service team at Race Leathers Motorcycle Gear store on 01254 704 000, and we will be more than happy to help.