BRP 2013 Spyder RT, Operator'S Manual

Page: 71 / 191

RIDING GEAR
Gloves
Full-fingered gloves protect hands
from the wind, sun, heat, cold and
flying objects. Gloves that fit snugly
will improve grip on the handlebar and
help reduce hand fatigue. Sturdy, rein-
forced motorcycle gloves help protect
hands in the event of a fall. Gloves
made specifically for motorcyclists
have seams on the outside to prevent
irritation, and are curved to provide a
natural grip when curled around the
handgrips. If gloves are too bulky, it
may be difficult to operate the controls.
Gauntlets keep cold air from going up
sleeves and protect the wrists.
rmo2008-001-006_a
1. Glove gauntlet
Jackets, Pants and Riding Suits
Wear a jacket and long pants, or a full
riding suit. Quality motorcycle-type
protective gear will provide comfort,
and it can help you avoid being dis-
tracted by adverse environmental ele-
ments. In case of a crash, good quality
protective gear made of sturdy ma-
terial may prevent or reduce injury.
Some gear includes padding or hard
armor that may further reduce the risk
of injury in a crash. Pants also help pro-
tect against burns from hot parts.
Protective gear sold for motorcycling
will often provide the best combination
of fit and protection. These garments
are designed to fit while sitting in a rid-
ing position. They are cut longer in the
sleeves and legs and are fuller across
the shoulders. Riding suits are avail-
able in both one-piece and two-piece
sets.
Leather is a good choice because it is
durable and wind-resistant and pro-
vides protection against injury. Other
abrasive-resistant
protective gear
made of synthetic fabrics are good
choices, too. Do not wear loose or
long clothing or scarves that can be-
come tangled in the moving parts.
Flaps and fasteners seal out the wind.
A jacket with a zippered front will be
more wind resistant than a jacket with
buttons or snaps. A flap of material
over the zipper of a jacket gives ad-
ditional protection against the wind.
Jackets with snug cuffs and waist
are recommended to keep wind from
blowing in. A large, loose collar can
flap when riding and may irritate skin or
be a distraction.
In cool-weather riding, protect your-
self against hypothermia. Hypother-
mia, a condition of low body tempera-
ture, can cause loss of concentration,
slowed reactions and loss of smooth,
precise muscle movement. In cool
conditions, proper protective gear like
a windproof jacket and insulated layers
of clothing are essential. Even at mod-
erate temperatures, you can feel very
cold due to the wind while riding.
Protective gear that is appropriate for
cold-weather riding may be too hot
when stopped. Dress in layers so that
clothing can be removed as desired.
Topping the protective gear with a
windproof outer layer can prevent cold
air from reaching the skin.
Riding gear can also help a rider be
more visible. Wearing bright colors is
a wise choice. If a dark jacket is worn,
an inexpensive reflective vest can be
worn over it. It is a good idea to put
extra reflective tape on garments worn
regularly while riding.
Rain Gear
If you must ride in wet weather, a rain
suit or a waterproof riding suit is rec-
ommended. On long rides, it is a good
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SAFE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
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