Must-Have Motorcycle Commuter Accessories

Commuting to work on your bike is simply better than driving. The yawn-inducing morning drive immediately turns into an active, engaging way to start your morning and arrive at the office with a boost of adrenaline. It also makes you cooler than your driving coworkers. But because some people don't invest in the right equipment, they think commuting on a motorcycle is only good when it's warm and sunny. In reality, a few commuting accessories will make it so your commute is always comfortable and fun. We're passionate about riding (even commuting!) here at Interstate Cycles in Lake City, Florida, so we compiled this list of the best gear you can get to make your commute better. Try some of these out for yourself! If you need new parts or service on your bike, stop by our showroom.

One-Piece Riding Suit

If you want to commute to work on a motorcycle, you'll need to be prepared for whatever mother earth throws at you. Showing up to a big business meeting in a soaked shirt and tie just won't cut it. On warm days, you can get away with a simple leather jacket and riding boots. During the other months, though, you'll want something more substantial. Don't fuss with putting together several pieces of waterproof gear. Instead, opt for a one-piece riding suit. You can simply hop in and out like it's pajamas, and you don't even have to bother changing your clothes! A one piece riding suit can be a real game changer. Just make sure it's long enough to cover the tops of your boots, otherwise you'll be left with water-filled boots and cold ankles.

Top-Side Box

You'll definitely need some storage space when commuting to pack any work equipment and to give you a place to store your riding gear when it's not in use. A top-side box is the best choice. Many people opt for traditional saddlebags, but these have their limitations. Their narrow size means they often can't fit a full face helmet. And despite their narrow width, they also add quite a bit of width to your bike, making it harder to hit gaps in traffic. A top-side box, on the other hand, can be large enough to fit all your gear, won't add width to your bike, and can be easily locked and secured. And because commuting speeds are often much lower than cruising speeds or normal highway driving speeds, you don't have to worry about the aerodynamic issues top-side box haters love to talk about.

Windscreen

At a certain point, you have to admit that commuting is a practical activity and that gear that makes it more practical should be considered improvements. If you love cafe racers or stripped down muscle bikes, you might not love the look of a windscreen. On the commute, though, they're essential. Windscreens give protection from rain kicked up by other motorists, they make it easier on the neck and back to ride, and they provide a huge amount of protection when you want it most.

Alarm/Tracking Devices

If you ride to work every day, you're providing a consistent target for potential thieves. Alarms provide a powerful theft deterrent. Nothing scares a day-time thief away faster than 120 decibels of noise in his ear to draw people to their office windows. If they're able to disable the alarm, however, a tracking device will help you get your bike back.

Neck Protection

While not as vital as the helmet above it, wearing something to protect your neck is a great way to make a small equipment difference that makes a massive comfort difference. A balaclava is one way to handle this, although you can also buy specific neck protectors if you really want to get into it. Avoid scarves, which can flap in your face, come unwrapped and fly off, get caught on things, and generally provide a massive distraction and nuisance.

To summarize: start commuting by motorcycle! But make sure you have the best gear possible to do so. If you're looking for riding accessories or equipment, stop by Interstate Cycles in Lake City, Florida. We proudly serve Gainesville, Tallahassee, Alachua, Valdosta, Jacksonville, and Sanderson, Florida.