Motorcycling is one of the most amazing activities I begun since this past July. After almost two months of riding my 2023 Moto Morini Seiemmezzo SCR, I know wearing my motorcycle gear is a MUST before every ride. Even before my Moto Morini was delivered to my home on James Island, I spend time researching and purchasing as much gear as I could afford BEFORE I got my motorcycle. I did not want to start my motorcycle career without having my entire body covered and protected as much as possible. As a new rider, wearing full coverage gear allows me to feel confident before I push the start button on my Moto Morini.
Yet, as much as I love the motorcycle community in the Lowcountry, witnessing other riders NOT wearing gear while riding a motorcycle really makes me sad. There is so much risk involved with motor biking. From my experience of my first crash, at a speed less than 15mph, I was so thankful I was protected from head-to-toe. Recently, I have notice riders wearing flip flops as they ride the public roads on their 20-thousand-dollar motorcycles. I can’t help but feel sorry for them and wish they would change their habits. Aren’t your toes important to you? But I understand because as we become more confident in our riding abilities, and as we clock off years of experience in two-wheel travel, we begin to lose site of the little things, like our toes.
Living in South Carolina, a state that doesn’t require motorcycle helmets after 21 years old, I understand the deep idea that a motorcycle is freedom, and wearing a helmet might be seen as impeding that freedom. For me though, zipping up my motorcycle jacket, wearing my heavy-duty motorcycle jeans, lacing my boots up, buttoning up my helmet, and putting on my gloves is a routine that gets me emotionally ready for the public roads ahead. If I was to NOT wear my gear and ride during rush hour traffic, I don’t think I would make it 5 miles. Honestly, All The Gear All The Time (ATGATT) is as much a part of my pre-ride checklist as my T-CLOCS.
This is not to say wearing motorcycle gear will save your life. The damagers with riding a motorcycle are as high as ever in today’s busy world. But for me, wearing full coverage gear for ANY ride, 5 miles to 60 miles, I will always make sure to follow ATGATT each time. And for God’s sakes people, protect your toes!
Rolf