Riding in your 40s and beyond hits different — comfort, safety, and practicality wins. These days, I care more about enjoying the ride than dealing with gear that makes it harder. These are the motorcycle ride essentials I never leave home without.
- Cell Phone Lanyard – Having your cell phone at your fingertips is essential during the ride. Dropping your phone while riding or while pulling gloves off is an easy way to ruin a ride. A simple phone lanyard keeps it attached to you without digging through pockets. Look for one with a strong clip and adjustable length. Check the price on Amazon
- Riding Gloves with Touchscreen Tips – Wearing riding gloves is a personal preference. I live in Florida and find wearing riding gloves in the warmer weather is uncomfortable. However, there are times when the weather gets cold enough to make gloves a necessity. Good gloves make a huge difference. You’ll most likely want to select a glove that has touchscreen tips so that you aren’t constantly pulling them off to operate your phone. Look for a little padding in the palms and a snug fit that still feels comfortable. Here is my favorite pair.
- Neck Gaiter or Buff – A neck gaiter is one of those things you don’t think about until you really need it. It helps with wind, sun, dust, and temperature changes without being bulky. These also come in handy if you forget your hair protection. Look for something lightweight that’s easy to pull up or down while riding. I keep one on the bike at all times….just in case. Here is a great option.
- Earplugs for Wind Noise – Wind noise adds up faster than people realize, especially on longer rides. A good pair of earplugs helps reduce fatigue and ringing without blocking important sounds. Look for a pair designed for riding (not heavy-duty construction use). I prefer these.
- Lightweight Rain Layer – Weather changes fast, and getting caught in rain without a waterproof layer can make a ride miserable. A lightweight rain jacket that packs down small is easy to stash and worth having. Look for one that’s windproof and not bulky. This one packs down nicely.
- Compact First-Aid Kit – You hope you never need it, but when you do, you’re glad it’s there. A compact first-aid kit doesn’t take up much space and can handle small cuts, scrapes, or blisters on the road. Look for one that’s slim and easy to stash. This will make a nice permanent addition to your bike.
- Ponytail Glove – In the state of Florida, wearing a helmet is optional. While I do not ride without one, I have many friends who choose to go helmetless. Whether you choose a helmet or not, please know blowing wind and long hair don’t get along. A ponytail glove helps keep hair from tangling, pulling, or whipping around and smacking you in the eye while you ride. It’s a small thing that makes a noticeable difference, especially on longer rides. This is my favorite ponytail glove.
- Polarized Sunglasses – Good sunglasses reduce glare and eye strain, especially on long stretches of road. Polarized lenses make a noticeable difference in bright sun and changing light. Look for a comfortable fit that stays put under your helmet. These polarized sunglasses are amazing.
- Portable Phone Charger or Power Bank – As the passenger on a motorcycle ride you may need to assist your driver by using GPS, playing good music, or taking videos and photos which can drain your phone faster than you expect. Having a small power bank close at hand keeps you from stressing about battery life when your battery life is low. (Pro tip – you might even want to find a way to attach this to your cell phone lanyard for easy accessibility.) Look for one that is compact and easy to charge ahead of time.
- Sunscreen or Cooling Wipes – With all that wind blowing around and keeping you cool, sun exposure can sneak up on you. Travel-size sunscreen or cooling wipes are easy to toss in your pocket and come in handy fast. (Pro tip – ALWAYS apply sunscreen prior to leaving for your ride and keep a pack of the sunscreen wipes in the wallet attached to your lanyard so it is easily accessible.) Look for something small that won’t leak or feel greasy.
Riding is most enjoyable when you’re comfortable, prepared, and not overthinking what you need to bring with you. A few smart essentials go a long way toward loving your time on the bike and stressing less. Pack what works for you and leave the rest behind.
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