Helmet & leathers insurance
Riding a motorbike means you're exposed to the elements, whether you're commuting to work or enjoying a leisurely cruise through the countryside.
Safety first
Road safety charity Think! explains that motorcyclists are roughly 38 times more likely to be killed in an accident than people in cars, per mile ridden. In a car, you're protected by a solid metal body. On a bike, there's nothing between you and the object you collide with, whether that's the ground, a lamppost, or another vehicle.
There's no law stating what motorcyclists must wear while riding – apart from a helmet – but a pair of jeans and t-shirt are unlikely to give you decent protection in the event of an accident. Specialised riding gear could save your life one day, so it's worth the investment.
Helmets
The law states that motorbike and moped riders must wear a safety helmet that meets British safety standards at all times. The helmet worn must meet one of the following:
SHARP
If you haven't bought your helmet yet, make sure you check out the government's Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme (SHARP) website. The search tool allows you to find out the safety ratings of hundreds of helmet makes and models.
Seeing as our heads are all different shapes and sizes, it's important to try on any helmet before you buy it, paying particular attention to:
Fit
The Think! Essential Guide to Protective Gear for Bikers explains that helmets should hug the head and feel snug around your cheeks. If you wobble your head and it moves, then it's too big and won't provide sufficient protection if you come off your bike.
Comfort
If your head feels tight or there are any pressure points when you put the helmet on, then it's the wrong fit. Wear the helmet for a few minutes in the store before deciding to buy it, as you won't be able to return it.
Colours
Think! recommends choosing a light and brightly coloured helmet, as this will help other road users to see you.
Straps
The helmet strap should be secured at all times when you're out on the road. Even if the helmet fits well, it's likely to come off in an accident if you don't use the strap.
Helmet and leathers cover with Hastings Direct
A set of decent leathers and quality safety helmet could set you back hundreds of pounds, so they're worth protecting. Besides, you've spent a lot of time and effort choosing the right riding gear, so you don't want to lose out if you were involved an accident.
With cover from Hastings Direct, you'll receive up to £1000 worth of protection for your motorcycle leathers and bike helmet. For just £2.67 a month, our bike helmet and leather protection covers the cost of your riding gear if it's damaged in a motorbike accident anywhere in the UK.
Along with your protective clothing (leathers) and helmet, your riding boots and gloves are also covered under this policy.
What's not covered:
Our bike helmet and leathers cover is provided by Canopius and is available to Hastings Direct bike customers.
Further information can be found in our optional additional products booklet.
Bike insurance
Tailor your cover to suit your needs and budget - leaving you free to enjoy the open road.
Log in to MyAccount
Log in to MyAccount to manage your policy online. You can view and download documents at your convenience. If your policy number starts with 'XA' you can also make payments and changes to your policy online.