What kind of rider are you?
I see it. Riders wearing jeans and Ts with no protective gear. I’ve even seen them with their skull-cap helmet dangling off the back of their head. No worries. Motorcycling is about freedom, independence, and our right to make our own choices. No judgment here.
But, if you’re more like me and want at least a modicum (okay, a lot) of safety, then you may be interested to know that there have been major innovations in motorcycle safety gear. Because, as we all know, riding comes with a few risks. And in today’s anxious world and crazy traffic, it seems to be getting worse.
Luckily, modern technology has made huge strides in keeping us safer than ever before. From helmets that practically think for you to gear that makes you more visible, let’s dive into some of the latest innovations that can help keep us safe on the road.
1. Smarter Helmets: More Than Just a Hard Shell
A helmet isn’t just a piece of plastic and foam anymore. Today’s helmets do a lot more than protect your head—they actually work to reduce injury, increase awareness, and enhance your ride.
MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) – Helps reduce rotational forces on your brain if you take a tumble.
Smart Helmets – Built-in Bluetooth, rear-view cameras, and heads-up displays (HUDs) mean you can stay connected and aware without taking your eyes off the road.
Lighter, Stronger Materials – Carbon fibre and other space-age materials make helmets safer, lighter, and more comfortable, which, if you’re in a no-helmet-required state, may mean you might actually try wearing one.
If your helmet is looking a little worse for wear (or if it’s older than five years—the manufacturers’ suggested timeframe), it’s time for an upgrade. Newer models provide better protection, comfort, and tech, making your ride safer and more enjoyable.
2. Riding Gear That’s Got Your Back (and Everything Else)
Leather jackets are iconic, but modern riding gear is better—hands down. Modern motorcycle apparel is designed to protect, adapt, and keep you comfortable in all conditions.
Kevlar and Dyneema Fabrics – Offer superior abrasion resistance without the stiffness of old-school leather.
Armor Inserts – CE-rated protection in jackets, pants, and even gloves helps absorb impact and reduce injuries.
Temperature-Controlled Gear – Heated and ventilated riding gear means you can ride comfortably in both scorching summers and chilly autumn mornings.
3. Airbag Systems: You’re Not a Crash Test Dummy
Airbag systems aren’t just for cars anymore. Riders can now wear airbag vests and jackets that deploy instantly in the event of an accident. There are two main types:
Tethered Systems – Connected to your bike with a lanyard that triggers the airbag if you get separated.
Electronic Systems – Sensors detect sudden movement changes and deploy the airbag in milliseconds.
They aren’t cheap, but if an airbag system helps you walk away from a crash instead of taking a ride in an ambulance, it’s a solid investment.
4. High-Visibility Gear: Because “I Didn’t See You” is Not an Excuse
One of the biggest threats to motorcyclists is being invisible to other drivers. Thankfully, new high-visibility gear is designed to increase your presence on the road.
Reflective and LED Gear – Riding jackets, helmets, and backpacks now feature built-in reflective materials and LED lighting to boost visibility at night.
Smart Lightbars – This is where AdMore Lighting’s Lightbar shines (literally). Mounted on the rear of your bike, it combines Smart Brake Lights—brake lights that activate when you slow down and pulse to alert drivers behind you—as well as progressive LED turn signals and running lights into one high-visibility system. The pulsing brake light grabs attention and increases the reaction time of the driver behind you, making you significantly safer. Even when you’re not braking, the LED lights shine brighter than most OEM lights, making sure you stay visible at all times.
Ride Safe and Smart
Riding gear isn’t about looking cool—it’s about making sure you can ride another day. Whether it’s a helmet with built-in tech, riding gear that protects better, or high-visibility accessories that make sure you’re seen, these innovations can make a big difference.
So, before you hit the road, take a second look at your gear. Is it time for an upgrade? Because the best rides are the ones you get to talk about afterward.
Ride safe and be seen. I hope to see you out on the road sometime soon. Remember, becoming a skilled and confident rider is a marathon, not a sprint. Take it slow, enjoy the ride, and never stop learning. As I’ve discovered, motorcycling is more than just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle and a lifelong adventure.
– John Lewis
John is a passionate moto-traveller and motorcycle enthusiast who enjoys sharing stories that inform, inspire, and entertain. Specialising in motorcycle touring, safety, travel, or just about anything motorcycle-related, John’s insights, travels, and experiences have been featured in national magazines such as Motorcycle Mojo and The Motorcycle Times, as well as on various blogs and websites. When he is not riding or writing, he works as the service manager at a boutique motorcycle shop where he’s always ready to share a story or helpful tip.