Factors to consider when choosing motorcycle accessories
Accessorizing is a great practice when you are a biker, but it is important that you do it right. For one, picking the wrong accessories will make your riding experience less than enjoyable, not to mention setting you back financially.
Again, the evolution of motorcycle accessories is so rapid that it would be an exercise in futility to try keeping up with every new product that hits the market. So what are the most important factors to have in mind before spending your precious bucks on motorcycle accessories?
- Purpose
What are you looking to achieve with your new accessory? Do you want to increase your bike’s speed, expand carriage or just make it look more attractive? Bike gear is all attractive and may deceive you on the purpose it is going to serve.
Know with precision what you are looking for and engage an expert to help you pick your right fit.
- Price
This goes without saying. There is no way you are going to buy items beyond your budget. Well, maybe there is, but it makes little sense taking a loan to buy an aesthetic addition for an already functional bike.
Unless your bike is an income generator, avoid going into debt to soup it up. Biking is meant to be fun and a let-off from life’s steam, not a way to rack up stress.
- Off-bike suitability
Is it comfortable to be in when you are not riding? This is especially so for wearable accessories like helmets and jackets. Consider the nature of your ride. Are you going to take a direct route from point A to B or will you stop at different points?
Look for gear that does not require you to disrobe every time you make a stop- you know how long it takes to get back into that stuff! Leather garments are popular among bikers, but ensure you pick leather items with a good lining so they are always comfortable to be in.
- Position on the technology line
Is a similar but improved gadget coming out soon? With technological items like speaker systems, it is good to find out what is new in the market before buying. Do not pick an item that will be obsolete in the next few months.
Instead, consider holding out for a little longer. You can stay in the know by keeping up with biking magazines and websites.
- Safety
It is necessary to emphasize the importance of observing safety. Any accessory that compromises your safety is a no-no no matter how popular it might be. Does your concentration go down when you listen to music as you ride? Ditch those headphones ASAP!