After purchasing a motorcycle, you may be tempted to immediately hit the road, but first, there are a few steps you’ll have to take to make it road legal. For starters, in North Carolina, you’ll need at least a liability motorcycle insurance policy and have a motorcycle endorsement on your license. hen the paperwork is covered, you’ll want to purchase the right safety gear to protect your body from serious injury in an accident.

What Gear Will Protect You on a Motorcycle?

1. Helmet & Eye Protection

Anyone operating or riding a motorcycle in North Carolina is legally required to wear a helmet. The helmet must also comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, meaning it must have at least a one-inch thick inner lining made of firm polystyrene foam. Look for the permanent “DOT” label — not a sticker — on the helmet to confirm it meets these standards.

Fortunately, most helmets have a built-in visor that will protect your eyes from debris and flying bugs. However, as visors can limit visibility at night, it’s recommended to have separate eye protection during these hours.

2. Gloves

If left unprotected while riding, your hands will be at the mercy of the wind, sun, and extreme hot and cold temperatures. Look for full-fingered gloves with adequate flexibility to prevent burns, cuts, and abrasions.

3. Jacket 

For the most protection when riding, you want to wear either a leather or textile motorcycle jacket. Leather is durable and made to withstand most weather conditions and high-wind speeds. Quality made hides that are over one millimeter thick will also resist abrasions and protect you from road rash.

While some leather designs are now made with temperature and moisture control, textile jackets are often better for this, making them more suitable to wear during the summer and wet weather. Additionally, modern nylon and polyester fabrics make these jackets light and durable.

4. Boots

Thankfully, motorcycle insurance covers bodily injuries because, unfortunately, many riders will experience a foot or ankle injury at some point. Get a sturdy pair of riding boots that fully cover your feet and extend up above your ankles.

This will protect your extremities from flying debris, exhaust pipe burns, and potential road rash. Strong boots will also offer more leg and ankle support when mounting, getting off, and holding your bike up. 

Make sure you are fully protected when riding your bike by getting motorcycle insurance from MP Davis Insurance Agency in Randleman, NC. For nearly 50 years, they have developed personalized and affordable insurance plans for homeowners, businesses, and drivers in the Piedmont Triad area. Speak to one of their insurance agents today by calling (336) 498-7606. You can also learn more about their motorcycle insurance and other services offered by visiting their website.