Your Guide to Essential Motorcycle Gear for Beginners

Six Essentials of Motorcycle Gear for Beginners

1. Beginner Motorcycle Helmets

Your helmet is your most critical piece of equipment, your non-negotiable shield. While there are a variety of different types of helmets to choose from, we recommend opting for a DOT-certified option that hugs your head snugly, with a clear or tinted visor based on your preference. If you’re looking for more information on how your motorcycle helmet should fit, visit your local Harley® dealer. All H-D® dealers are trained to help you find a motorcycle helmet that fits correctly.   

When it comes to the best beginner H-D motorcycle helmet options, modular and full-face helmets offer maximum coverage and protection for your entire face and jaw. Prioritize features like internal sun visors for combating glare, effective ventilation for breezy rides, and a lightweight design for minimizing fatigue. If you’ll be riding with others or are a music lover, some of the best helmets for beginners offer Bluetooth® audio alongside advanced noise control, so you can hear every word of your group’s communications and every note of your ride’s personalized soundtrack.

2. Motorcycle Boots for Beginners

It’s time to ditch the sneakers and invest in a pair of motorcycle boots. Sturdy, over-the-ankle motorcycle boots are your foot soldiers, helping to shield you from debris, providing traction on any terrain and offering crucial support in unforeseen situations. To help protect your feet in the event of a crash, we recommend riders invest in a pair of leather or high-tech textile boots with abrasion resistance. Ankle protection helps to safeguard your joints, while a good grip sole helps to ensure confident control on any surface. Look for waterproof membranes for rainy days and comfortable liners for all-day wear. A good pair of beginner motorcycle boots are integral to foot protection as well as your comfort over the long haul, so choose from the best—and a pair like these that are designed to last.

3. Motorcycle Gloves for Beginners

Your hands are your control center, the conduit between you and the machine. Leather motorcycle gloves can help protect them from abrasion and impact, while helping to ensure a firm grip on the handlebars, even in wet conditions. In a pair of beginner motorcycle gloves, you should look for features like pre-curved fingers for natural hand position, padding on key impact zones like knuckles and palms for superior protection, and touchscreen compatibility for staying connected on the go. Consider beginner motorcycle gloves with built-in vents for breathability on hot days, choose insulated options for keeping your hands warm on colder rides, or opt for all-weather gloves that are ideal for adventure riding. A pair of comfortable and protective gloves are your partners in navigating the open road with confidence.

4. Motorcycle Jackets for Beginners

Your shield against the elements and potential spills, choose a motorcycle jacket for beginners that’s crafted from abrasion-resistant materials like leather or advanced textiles. Prioritize features like ventilation panels for staying cool when the sun shines, armor inserts for key impact zones like elbows, shoulders, and back for added protection, and reflective elements for increased visibility, especially at night or in the rain. Consider an all-weather or a 3-in-1 FL3X layering system option featuring a removable layer for adapting to different climates, seamlessly transitioning from sunny days to rainy rides, from warm lowlands to falling temperatures at higher altitudes.

Your beginner motorcycle jacket should be your reliable shield, keeping you both comfortable and protected on every adventure. That’s why the right fit is just important as the right features. A snug, comfortable fit ensures your armor stays exactly where it needs to be and prevents wind from flapping around it at speed. Think "second skin" with room to breathe, and don't hesitate to consult a gear expert at your local Harley-Davidson® dealer for guidance. Invest in the right fit, and your beginner motorcycle jacket will become an irreplaceable companion on every two-wheeled adventure.

5. Motorcycle Pants for Beginners

Don't settle for a regular pair of jeans as your only layer of protection when out on a ride. Motorcycle pants made from tough, reliable materials offer crucial abrasion resistance for your legs. In a pair of beginner motorcycle pants, you should look for features like adjustable waistbands for a secure fit, zippered closures for easy on and off, and built-in knee and hip armor for peace of mind. Consider pants with removable thermal liners for versatility in the face of changing weather conditions and styles that balance protection with comfort, allowing you to move freely on the bike. Your legs deserve the same level of protection as your upper body, so invest in a pair of beginner motorcycle pants that are both tough and comfortable for the journey ahead.

6. Motorcycle Eyewear for Beginners

Even if your helmet has a visor, you should consider investing in motorcycle-specific goggles or riding sunglasses. A pair of well-fitting glasses, which should contact your upper cheeks, offer an additional layer of protection from wind, dust, and UV rays. Good motorcycle eyewear can help to improve your vision and overall riding experience. Choose a quality pair of beginner motorcycle glasses for serious wind protection and a wider field of view, especially on high-speed rides or in dusty environments. You can also opt for stylish sunglasses for added comfort on sunny days, with scratch-resistant lenses and UV protection for optimal eye health. Harley-Davidson offers both tinted motorcycle eyewear for daytime use and clear motorcycle eyewear for nighttime use. Clear vision is key to enjoyable riding. Invest in beginner motorcycle eyewear that complements your helmet and riding style.