Top - next column

How often have you seen some papaw hurtling along on a bike dressed in no more that slops, a T-shirt and shorts?

You can bet your next pay cheque that he's never come off a bike before. Any rider with even a little experience will tell you that even a soft fall dressed like that will take it's toll in skin. "All the gear all the time" is the only sensible option. Sturdy shoes, a suitably designed leather (or one of the modern alternate composite) jacket and thick denim are minimum requirements. Leather pants are even better. (Next best is denim, but you will still loose skin.)

Pay attention to your helmet. If it has had a hard knock, replace it. (Tanks Girls - www.tankgirls.co.za sell a little gadget that warns you if your helmet no longer offers the requisite protection.) If your visor is scratched, replace it. And when you are mobile, ride with your visor down. A bug in your eye at any pace can not only leave you with permanent eye damage but will disturb you vision for long enough to put yourself at risk.

Top of page