Let’s be honest; riders get just as excited about new ways to outfit their gear closet as they do about adding a new bike to the stable.

Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

Regardless of your style or taste, we’ve got an extensive list of ideas to explore from new apparel to technology gadgets, packable maintenance tools, and other accessories.

Whether you’re looking for yourself, a friend, or a loved one, you’ll be sure to find some fresh ideas below.

Let’s get into it.

What Are the Best Motorcycle Gear Ideas of 2024?

Whether you’re a new rider or a seasoned veteran; here’s an extensive list of motorcycle gear ideas to get you started.

1: Motorcycle Helmet

Sure; there are some states in the US that make helmets optional. But why would you want to risk your noggin? There are a ton of different types out there ranging from full face to half shell. Find what you like, and give yourself a little peace of mind (see what we did there).

2: Motorcycle Visor

Whether you opt for a three-quarter, modular, or full-face helmet, you’ll likely want to pick up some spare shields. You can find lots of different options that have varying degrees of tint alongside the clear versions. Some manufacturers are now offering adaptive technology that can provide tint when it’s bright, and return to clear when it’s dark.

3: Motorcycle Goggles

Perhaps visors and shields aren’t your jam and you prefer some fresh air on your face while you ride. In that case, you might want to check out adding goggles to your setup. There are tons of options, that still will provide eye protection and allow airflow.

4: Motorcycle Glasses

Glasses are a great option for those riding with three-quarter or half helmets. You’ll get some wind protection and often tint options, but most importantly, these lenses are specially designed to be shatterproof and impact resistant.

5: Motorcycle Sunglasses

We know you might prefer your Aviators, but sunglasses made for riders have come a long way. The arms are designed to tuck into helmets, offering long term comfort. And trust us; there’s still plenty of cool to be had in this arena.

6: Balaclava

There are a wide variety of types here that can provide comfort in all settings from hot summer rides to cold winter commuting. We’d highly recommend using one all the time. The best benefit? It’s a lot easier to throw your balaclava in the wash than your helmet pads.

7: Neck Buff

If you’re riding year round or in any sort of cooler temperatures, a neck buff is great way to keep your neck warm. It will seal up the gap between the base of your helmet and the top of your jacket, reducing cold air flow up into your helmet and allowing you to keep riding for longer without getting cold.

8: Base Layers

If you’ve never tried riding with base layers, you’re missing out. Moisture wicking, comfortable, and thin; base layers aren’t just for track riders. They have a similar benefit to balaclavas – it’s so easy to toss these into the wash along with your regular clothes.

9: Moisture Wicking Socks

Are you picking up on a trend here? No one likes to be moist in their gear. A good pair of socks will help keep your feet from getting soggy, even in waterproof boots.

10: Leather Jacket

Leather jackets definitely exude that “ultimate cool” vibe, so we’d argue that every rider’s got to have one in their gear closet. Make sure you grab one that has armor included, or at least inserts to buy your own set.

11: Textile Jacket

One word with textile jackets: Airflow. Offering the same level of protection as leather, textiles have come a long way, and there are a ton of different styles. A few of the big benefits are being lighter weight and, as mentioned previously, carrying the ability to let massive amounts of air through.

12: Perforated Leather Jacket

Leather can get hot, and that’s why most models offer a perforated option. The perforations cover the larger chest panels and portions of the arms, but still leave all the areas needing the most protection solid. Sounds like a way to both look cool and feel cool to us.

13: Waterproof Jacket

If you’re riding year round, chances are you’re going to run into some precipitation at one point or another. Some jackets are marketed as waterproof from the get-go; others have internal (or external) liners. Alternatively, you can also get a standalone shell.

14: Heated Jacket

If you think all the way back to middle school biology, you’ll recall that your core is critical to keep warm. Heated jackets offer a way to keep your core nice and toasty, which will keep you going for longer in cold weather.

15: Riding Shirts & Hoodies

One of our favorite modern innovations are riding shirts and hoodies. They are abrasion resistant, and often as pockets for installing shoulder and elbow armor. Unless they look close, the average person won’t even be able to tell it’s motorcycle specific. It’s worth noting you will sacrifice some protection performance here compared to your standard dedicated motorcycle jacket.

16: Short Cuff Motorcycle Gloves

Short cuff motorcycle gloves are an essential part of your summer riding kit. They’re easy on and easy off even when your hands are sweaty, and let’s you get some additional airflow up your sleeves too.

17: Gauntlet Motorcycle Gloves

Gauntlets add an extra layer of protection to your hands, covering wrist bones and allowing you to create a better seal between jacket and glove. The extended glove will often have multiple velcro fasteners allowing you to get the best fit to keep your paws comfortable and safe.

18: Heated Motorcycle Gloves

Your hands are one of the first places to lose feeling when you get too cold. While heated grips are an option (see number 36 on our list), heated gloves are another to help you extend your riding season to all seasons. They can also hook up to your heated jacket, if you’ve got one of those.

19: Waterproof Motorcycle Gloves

Waterproof motorcycle gloves are an essential for your year-round-rider. In addition to offering protection, a good pair will keep your hands dry and warm for as long as you need. They’ll also often offer reflective accents, and a thumb squeegee to wipe your visor.

20: Cold Weather Motorcycle Gloves

We’ve found that there isn’t really “one pair does all” here. Sometimes you want leather gauntlets, sometimes you want cushy waterproof. Something that will get the job done when it’s cool outside won’t necessarily work for true cold. Don’t be afraid to splurge here on some different options.

21: Warm Weather Motorcycle Gloves

We already mentioned short cuff gloves, but generally speaking, warm weather gloves will prioritize perforation and airflow while still offering plenty of protection. Nobody wants sweaty hands when it gets toasty out.

22: Leather Motorcycle Pants

Leather is viewed as one of the best materials out there for abrasion resistance, so it’s a great option for the area of your body that could potentially hit the ground first. Also someone told us that styles from the 1990’s were coming back, so you’ve got that going for you too.

23: Leather Chaps

If you prefer to wear your own pants but prefer some extra protection, chaps are an option. They’ve got the abrasion resistant that pants would provide, but are a lot easier to put on and take off. Keep in mind, that flexibility means that not ALL areas of your bottom half is covered.

24: Textile Motorcycle Pants

If you read item 11 you’ll recall that textile can offer the same protection in a lighter weight with increased airflow. There’s also some great waterproof options amidst the spectrum, and oh yeah – pockets: big ones!

25: Adventure Motorcycle Pants

Touring riders unite! Adventure pants will often have giant pockets for items that need easy access, additional reflective accents for protection in any weather, as well as zip vents. Consider these the maximum utility as far as pants go.

26: Motorcycle Jeans

Jeans is another area where there has been a lot of progress for motorcycle riders as far as options are concerned. Upgradable armor options are available for knees and hips, kevlar linings are available, and articulated stretch panels that make it more comfortable to move in, whether you’re walking or riding.

27: Urban Motorcycle Pants

So what about those pants not obviously riding specific, but not jeans? We’ve got you – there are other options in this category. Options include joggers, chinos, cargo pants, and even sweatpants! The best part? They can all fly under the radar appearing as casual streetwear.

28: Heated Motorcycle Pants

The perfect addition if you’re planning to go all in on heated gear. Keep your legs toasty with a pair of heated motorcycle pants, complete with connections that can link up to your jacket and your gloves.

29: Adventure Riding Boots

Outside of perhaps supersport boots, these are about as beefy as it gets for protection. You know how you bashed your shin on your peg? Well, these will protect from that and so much more. Oh, and they’re designed with a tread and flex that allows you to still walk plenty.

30: Sport Riding Boots

If you’ve got your eyes on the track, these will help you complete not just the look, but meet the safety requirements to get out on your first track day. Sport boots have a race-inspired look that offer superior protection on the road and on the track, and have additional features like replaceable wear points.

31: Urban Riding Boots

If you’re like us, you’ve been out before riding in your Red Wings. Nowadays you can find motorcycle specific options for all types of street shoes, from work boot lookalikes to sneakers. They look good and are comfortable to walk in when you reach your destination. Similar to other urban styled riding gear, you do sacrifice a little bit of protection.

32: Rain Oversuit

A rain oversuit is your best bet for traveling long distances in deluge conditions. Packing down to a small size, you can tuck it away easily within a backpack or tank bag, and it’s there when you need it. No undressing required; pop it on over your existing gear.

Oh, and they’re available in both one-piece and two-piece systems to fit your preference.

33: Rain Liners

Perhaps you’re looking for a rainy day option that looks a bit more like a poncho or an anorak. There are some unique solutions out there that will fit the bill, with a small packable footprint, but great waterproof protection, keeping you dry and warm, and more importantly, comfortably on your way.

34: Boot & Glove Dryer

For those who are commuting on a bike year around, a boot and glove dryer is an absolute must. Get one for home and one for work, and never put on cold and wet gear ever again. Grab whatever style you like, from a standing unit to a smaller packable version.

35: Handlebar Muffs

Okay, we know they don’t look so great, but hear us out: Handlebar muffs are a game changer. It may take a little bit of getting used to when it comes to not being able to see your controls, but muffs are one of the best way to keeps your hands warm and dry in all weather conditions.

36: Heated Grips

Heated grips are an easy and cheap accessory to extend your riding season well into cold weather. These units add a control to your handlebars to control how warm they get, and achieve full heat within a few minutes. Some manufacturers even have proprietary options that integrate with your bike’s existing computer.

37: Aftermarket Headlight

A bright headlight isn’t just about you being able to see, but also about others being able to see you. Whether LED, HID, or some other option, a new headlight will shed some serious light on those dark rides home.

38: Accessory Lighting

Accessory lighting can be added just about anywhere on your bike, from the forks, to the bars, to the tail. It offers some unique personalization and increased visibility, both for you and others on the road who may not have seen you right away. There are plenty of kits out there that offer auxiliary switches if you don’t want to tie these lights into your bike’s existing accessory lighting.

39: Brake Modulator

The MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) encourages new riders to flash their brakes a few times when slowing down to catch the eyes of traffic behind you. Lucky for us, there are brake modulators that automatically flash your brake light so you don’t have to. They often come with different options for flashing patterns as well, so you can pick which you like best.

40: Aftermarket Horn

If there’s one thing that never feels adequate on a new bike, it’s the horn. A louder horn that can’t be missed is a crucial part of motorcyclist safety, especially in areas with lots of traffic.

41: Touring Windscreen

Anyone who has been a few hundred miles on the road can attest to the fact that a big windscreen does wonders when it comes to preventing fatigue and extending comfort. Options are available that are both make and model specific, as well as universal fit. And when you’re in town, you can always pull it off if you don’t love how it looks.

42: Motorcycle Backpack

We know what you’re thinking, why is this on a motorcycle list? Because it makes THAT much of a difference when it comes to long term comfort. Whether it’s aerodynamics or utility and comfort driven, a motorcycle specific backpack will allow you to carry more, for longer, more comfortably.

43: Hydration Pack

If you don’t opt for a backpack, that leaves your back free and clear for a water source. Between wind, sun, and any other elements, staying hydrated keeps you fresher, longer. 

44: Pannier Rack

So you’re in it for the long haul – you may want to consider a rigid pannier rack system, giving you flexibility for luggage options.

45: Pannier Hard Cases

One direction to go with your pannier rack: They’re durable and often have locking capability. We recommend looking for hard cases designed to go with a pannier rack before pulling the trigger on either.

46: Pannier Soft Cases

The other way to go with your pannier rack: Biggest pro here is that if you’re not packing them all the way, you can reduce the size. You also may have a little more leeway when it comes to fitting odd shaped items. Just as above, we recommend looking for soft cases designed to go with a pannier rack before finalizing your decision.

47: Adventure Soft Luggage

You rebel, you, avoiding the pannier rack altogether. Soft luggage has become super common for adventure bikes, with a wide variety of designs, styles, and add-on’s to maximize your storage space for your ride.

48: Roll Top Dry Bag

Can’t find a great bag that also holds the promise of waterproofness? Tuck your luggage back inside a roll top to get a great seal. Just… make sure you don’t put anything wet in there, or your nose is in for a surprise the next time you open it…

Alternatively; grab some small dry bags to tuck in your luggage for valuables and electronics.

49: Tank Bag

Tank bags provide easy access to anything you may need often. Varying sizes give you enough storage to tuck in your wallet and phone, all the way up to extra gloves, maps, and more. Bike-specific options abound, but there are also plenty of universal fit options with adjustable straps.

50: Tail Bag

Tail bags offer a little extra luggage real estate than a tank bag, and can make use of that empty pillion seat that you’ve been ignoring. Some bikes offer options to replace the pillion seat with a flat luggage lack, providing a better platform to place a tail bag. Some tail bags are even big enough to fit a whole spare helmet!

51: Waterproof Bag Cover

We’ve been there – you found the perfect bag or backpack, but it’s not waterproof. A bag cover is a cheap option that will get you there, or provide additional peace of mind on an existing waterproof piece. It can also add additional visibility if you choose the extra reflective models.

52: Crash Bars

Also known as engine guards, these bad boys made use of your frame bolts to protect the sides of your bike if you take a spill or drop the bike (and fingers crossed you don’t; we wouldn’t want your paint to get scratched). A stunt cage will give you just the same protection, even if you do zero stunting.

54: Motorcycle Tent

Bikepacking isn’t just for bicycles. A motorcycle tent can be a way to keep both you and your bike warm and dry while you’re camping out on the road. If you’re cold, they’re cold too.

55: Bluetooth Headset

Whether it’s just wanting to listen to music, hear turn by turn directions, or communicate with a riding buddy, a bluetooth headset can be a complete game changer. Or, ditch the headset and ignore all your friends, it doesn’t matter to us…

56: Motorcycle GPS

A motorcycle GPS can be used to set up routes in advance and save them, provide directions to waypoints, and track your trip through the day. While it may not be an essential for your everyday commuter, it’s proved invaluable to us when on big trips, especially internationally. 

57: Satellite Messenger

If you’ve shed the pavement for the dirt, it’s worth picking up a satellite messenger so that in the off chance you get into trouble, you can still communicate with someone back in society. We know you love your solitude, we just want to make sure it’s not unexpectedly permanent.

58: Ear Plugs

We love the sound of loud pipes too. However, both exhaust and wind noise can cause lasting damage to your hearing over time. Make sure you pick up a good pair of ear plugs so that you can enjoy the sounds of your engine for years to come.

59: Disc Brake Alarm

A disc brake is one of the most common types of locks out there. It wraps around the brake rotor, and some even come with a motion triggered alarm. They’re small and can tuck easily inside a backpack or under your seat.

60: Handlebar Lock

For some extra security, consider adding a handlebar lock to your kit. The way these operate is by gripping onto your front brake and throttle, making it so that your bike can’t be casually rolled. It won’t stop everyone, but it will certainly be a deterrent. They’re cheap and quick and easy to install and remove.

61: Bike Cover

Not all of us have the luxury of a garage for our toys. A cover will help protect your bike from extreme temperatures and the elements. It also has the benefit of concealing any security measures that you’ve taken to keep your bike safe, like the above locks.

62: Tire Plug Kit

This should go without saying; but this is a small amount of real estate in your day to day pack to have some peace of mind. A tire kit will come with an inflator, CO2 cartridge, and plug strips. We’ll be the first to warn you: Learn how to use it BEFORE you have to. Ask us how we know…

63: Tire Inflator Pump

In the event you are unlucky enough to have multiple punctures in the same ride, a tire inflator pump can be a life saver if you are out of CO2 cartridges. Over the years pumps have gotten a lot smaller and easy to pack along for the ride. Make sure you get one with a gauge so that you can ensure the proper PSI for your tires.

64: Rider Tool Kit

If you purchase a brand new bike, it will often come with a small tool kit under the seat. However, this certainly won’t have everything that you might need on the fly. There are some great basic kits that will get you started, and allow you a little extra real estate to add some of your own items (looking at you, zip ties and duct tape!).

65: Fuel Canisters

For the adventurous backcountry rider, fuel canisters are a lifesaver for a bike that is a little more thirsty than your tank can handle. Even for those on a road trip, an extra few liters of fuel can be the difference between pushing your bike and making it to the next fuel stop. Make sure you get one that is rated for gasoline.

66: Action Camera

An action camera is the best way to record your rides, and have proof in case of an insurance claim. Pick your place to mount – chest, helmet, bike – the options are nearly endless. 360 cameras have become increasingly popular due to their “film all angles and decide the shot later” process. You don’t have to get the most recent model either – pick up something used for half or a quarter of the cost new, and it will do just fine.

67: Memory Cards (& Case)

Constantly running a camera, particularly at a high resolution, chews through memory space really quickly. If you don’t want to set up auto-looping, make sure you carry some extra micro SD cards. A small case is a great way to organize them so you can keep your footage in chronological order.

68: Charging Block

Most folks are carrying these when they travel anyways these days, but your block can charge more than just your phone. A decent size 10,000maH block will be able to rejuvenate your camera, bluetooth communicator, and any other tech you might be carrying.

69: Cell Phone Mount

Some folks like to completely ignore their phone while out riding, but a cell phone mount can really make a big difference if you need to visually see a map to sort out your directions. It goes without saying; make sure you keep your eyes on the road to the best of your ability. 

70: Motorcycle Lift

Love to do your own maintenance at home? If you’ve got the space, a lift is a great way to get your bike up to near eye level, making maintenance a breeze. Check your bike’s wet weight to ensure that you get a lift rated for it, especially if you own a heavy cruiser.

71: Motorcycle Trackstands

We know you’ve been neglecting your chain… Pick up a rear stand to make chain maintenance a breeze! Adding a front stand will allow you to fully pick up both ends of the bike to have access to easy cleaning for wheels and brakes, among other maintenance.

72: Trickle Charger

We’re all about riding year round here, but if you put some bikes to sleep for the winter, make sure you pick up a trickle charger for each one. You can add pigtails to plug directly into the bike, or remove the battery and keep it topped off that way.

73: Accessory Power Pigtails

Accessory power pigtails connect directly to the motorcycle battery terminals and allow for an easy connection point for power. You can use them to charge the bike battery on a trickle charger, or run a power cable to charge your phone, GPS, or other piece of tech. Just don’t run the battery out of juice!

74: Cleaning Kit

You can certainly pick up your own choice of individual products, but a basic cleaning kit is a good place to get started. A good kit will provide a variety of brushes and cloths, degreaser and lubrication, and fluids made for the body and fairings.

75: Degreaser

Given that regular chain maintenance is an essential part of basic motorcycle maintenance, degreaser should be at the top of your list to nab for your bike. Combined with the right brushes, degreaser will keep your chain looking clean and free of oil – just don’t forget to re-lube the chain afterwards.

76: Bike Wash

Not all soap is made the same! Bike wash is made specifically for motorcycles, and in order to keep your bike looking great for the long term, it’s important to use the right products. There are some products that are for “dry” washing (spray and wipe) and others diluted in water for a wet wash.

77: Chain Cleaning Kit

There are a few different styles of tools to choose from to clean your chain. They will all work; just make sure you do the cleaning frequently to give your chain the longest life possible.

78: Visor Cleaner

It’s the rain in the winter, and the bugs in the summer – your visor WILL get dirty over time. We like to carry a small bottle of cleaner with a microfiber cloth for on the go cleaning, and it makes a huge difference.

79: Plastic Friendly Wax

Plastic can be a little persnickety, and we want to make sure your fairings look shiny and smooth for many years to come. Choosing a good product made for plastic can help shed dirt and grime, and keep your bike looking clean for longer.

80: Ratchet Straps

Okay; this may not be a motorcycle specific item, but if you ever need to tow your bike anywhere, ratchet straps are definitely worth having. We like the auto-retracting ones. As always, make sure the load is rated for your bike’s weight.

81: Motorcycle Trailer

If you’ve got the room and vehicle for it already, having a trailer is well worth it for taking your bike to the shop or track days, or helping out a friend.

Conclusion

Phew. That was quite a list. Here’s some basic takeaway points to wrap it up:

• Apparel: What you wear on the bike is important. Whether you opt for a full leather suit or something that looks more casual, make sure the motorcycle gear that you’re choosing will keep you safe in the event of a spill.
• Traveling/Luggage: There are so many options out there for packing stuff with you from A to B on your adventures. You may need more than one solution! Give some thought to your mission about how and where you like to ride, and start there. You can always get more.
• Maintenance: Keeping your bike clean and in tip top shape is another contributing factor to keeping you safe on the road. The cleaners will help extend your bike’s life and keep it looking good.
• Be Ready: This list includes a small sampling of tools that would be helpful to carry. Overall, be ready for the what-if’s – even if that’s just a friend to call in the event of an emergency.

What did we miss?

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