Riding a motorcycle is an exciting hobby, but it’s important to wear the right gear, especially if you’re new to riding.
The right gear keeps you safe and makes your rides more comfortable and fun.
And high-quality gear doesn’t have to be expensive.
As a new rider, look for gear that fits well, feels comfortable, and meets safety standards without costing too much.
You can check out our guide on The Essential Motorcycle Gear for Beginners if you want a complete guide.
But here is the motorcycle gear we recommend for new riders on a budget.
Affordable Beginner Motorcycle Helmets
A helmet is the most important piece of your gear and luckily, there are plenty of affordable options.
If you want more information on what to look for, make sure you check out our article on How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Helmet.
Regardless, here are a few of the things you want to look for:
- Make sure you buy from a reputable brand and dealer
- This ensures you are getting a verified product that adheres to all the essential safety standards.
- Opt for a helmet with plenty of shell sizes
- A lot of budget helmets come with limited outer shell sizes, which can lead to bulky helmet fit and weight.
Bell Qualifier – $129
The Bell Qualifier is a fantastic entry-level helmet that balances price and performance. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and includes features like a quick-release face shield and padded wind collar – things you’d usually find on pricier helmets. The ventilation is decent, keeping you cool on longer rides. At this price, it’s hard to beat.
- DOT and ECE-approved for safety
- 3 lightweight shell sizes for comfort and fit
- Padded wind collar to reduce wind noise
- ClickRelease face shield for easy swaps
HJC i10 – $159
The HJC i10 is a step up in protection and comfort while still being beginner-friendly. It’s Snell-rated, which means it meets higher safety standards than just DOT. The ventilation system helps keep air moving, making it a solid choice for warm-weather riding. If you want a helmet that offers a little extra in terms of safety and durability without breaking the bank, this is it.
- DOT and Snell-approved for top-tier safety
- Advanced ventilation system for airflow
- Pinlock-ready face shield to prevent fogging
- Removable, washable interior lining
Affordable Beginner Motorcycle Gloves
Your hands are one of the first things to hit the ground in a crash, so wearing proper gloves is a must. They also improve grip, reduce fatigue, and protect against the elements.
Again, we have a complete guide on How To Choose The Right Motorcycle Gloves.
Here’s what to look for in budget-friendly gloves:
- Impact Protection
- Look for reinforced knuckles and padded palms to absorb shock in case of a fall.
- Material and Comfort
- Leather offers the best protection, while textile or mesh gloves provide better ventilation for hot weather.
- Fit and Dexterity
- Gloves should fit snugly but still allow full movement of your fingers. Adjustable wrist closures help keep them secure.
BILT Sprint Gloves – $34.99
The BILT Sprint Gloves are a solid entry-level option for riders who want real leather protection at a budget price. They offer good abrasion resistance and knuckle protection without breaking the bank. The perforated design also makes them a great choice for warmer rides.
- Full leather construction for abrasion resistance
- Hard knuckle protection for impact safety
- Perforated panels for airflow in warm weather
- Hook-and-loop wrist closure for a secure fit
Sedici Lucca Gloves – $49.99
If you can spend a little more, the Sedici Lucca Gloves offer a nice balance of comfort and protection. The soft goatskin leather provides a premium feel, while the reinforced palm and padded knuckles add durability. Plus, the touchscreen compatibility means you won’t have to take them off to check your phone or GPS.
- Soft, durable goatskin leather for comfort and protection
- Reinforced palm for extra durability
- Padded knuckles for added impact resistance
- Touchscreen-compatible fingertips
Affordable Beginner Motorcycle Shoes
While full motorcycle boots offer the best protection, they can feel bulky and uncomfortable for everyday riding.
This is one of the reasons we still recommend motorcycle shoes in addition to boots, as it allows new riders to get a better feel on the controls while also being protected.
For new riders, comfort and convenience can make all the difference between wearing proper gear or skipping it altogether. Motorcycle shoes provide solid protection without feeling like a chore to put on, meaning you’re more likely to actually wear them every ride.
For a detailed guide on what to look for, make sure you check out our article on How to Choose The Right Motorcycle Boots.
BILT Dexter 2 Shoes – $79.99
The BILT Dexter 2 is an affordable and comfortable motorcycle shoe designed for riders who want protection without the bulk of a boot. Made from a combination of leather and textile, this shoe offers solid durability, while keeping the casual and versatile look.
- Lightweight and flexible for easy walking and riding
- Reinforced ankle support for added protection
- Affordable and practical for everyday riders
If you’re looking for basic motorcycle footwear that won’t weigh you down but still provides protection, the Dexter 2 is an excellent option.
Affordable Beginner Motorcycle Jackets
A good motorcycle jacket isn’t just about style – it’s a key piece of protective gear.
It helps shield you from road rash in a crash, keeps you comfortable in different weather conditions, and can even improve visibility on the road.
Here are a few things to look for when choosing an affordable beginner-friendly jacket:
- Make sure you buy from a reputable brand and dealer
- Again, this ensures you are getting a verified product that adheres to all the essential safety standards.
- Material Matters
- Leather offers the best abrasion resistance, but textile jackets are often more affordable, breathable, and weather-resistant.
For a more detailed breakdown of what to look for, check out our guide on How to Choose The Right Motorcycle Jacket.
BILT Blaze 3 Mesh Jacket – $120
For riders in hotter climates, the BILT Blaze 3 Mesh offers excellent airflow while still keeping you protected. The full mesh construction allows maximum ventilation, and it includes CE-rated armor in the shoulders and elbows for impact protection.
- Full mesh design keeps you cool on hot rides
- Comes with CE-rated armor in key areas
- Affordable, especially for a high-ventilation jacket
If you need something lightweight for summer riding but still want protection, the Blaze 3 Mesh is a great pick. Plus, you can easily turn this into a cold-weather jacket by adding a jacket of your own.
Affordable Beginner Motorcycle Pants
Many new riders overlook motorcycle pants, but they’re just as important as a jacket or gloves.
Regular jeans won’t do much in a crash, while motorcycle pants are designed with abrasion-resistant materials and built-in armor to protect your legs.
To get a better understanding of what to look for, check out our guide on How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Pants.
For beginners, finding the right balance of protection, comfort, and affordability is key.
Here’s what to look for when choosing beginner-friendly motorcycle pants:
- Abrasion Resistance
- Look for Kevlar-lined jeans or textile pants made from materials like Cordura or reinforced denim for better slide protection.
- Built-in or Upgradeable Armor
- Many budget pants include CE-rated armor in the knees and hips, or at least pockets to add armor later.
- Comfort and Fit
- Riding pants should fit snug but not restrictive – stretch panels and adjustable waist straps help with comfort.
Street & Steel Oakland Jeans – $149.99
The Street & Steel Oakland Jeans combine the casual look of regular denim with the protection of motorcycle gear. They’re reinforced with Kevlar in impact areas and come with CE-rated knee armor, offering way more protection than standard jeans.
- Kevlar reinforcement in key slide areas
- Comes with removable CE-rated knee armor
- Classic denim style makes them easy to wear off the bike
If you want riding pants that don’t scream “motorcycle gear,” these jeans are a perfect blend of style and protection.
Affordable Beginner Motorcycle Boots
While motorcycle shoes are a great starting point, tall motorcycle boots provide the best protection.
Lower leg and ankle injuries are some of the most common in motorcycle crashes, and a good pair of tall boots can prevent serious damage by offering reinforced ankle support, shin protection, and abrasion resistance that regular shoes or short boots simply can’t match.
Again, we offer some guidance on what to look for in our article on How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Boots, but…
Here’s what to look for in a solid beginner-friendly motorcycle boot:
- Reinforced Ankle and Shin Protection
- Look for hard armor or internal reinforcement to protect against impact and twisting injuries.
- Secure Closure System
- Buckles, Velcro, or zippers provide a snug fit – laces should be covered or avoided to prevent them from catching on the bike.
- Comfort and Flexibility
- Boots should be stiff enough for protection but flexible enough for shifting and walking comfortably.
Alpinestars SMX S Boots – $259
The Alpinestars SMX S Boots are a step up from entry-level gear but worth every penny if you want solid ankle support and protection. These sport-style boots feature reinforced ankle and shin protection, plus a sturdy sole for better grip on the pegs.
- Hard armor protects ankles, shins, and heels
- Comfortable enough for street and touring use
- Ventilated panels help with airflow on warmer rides
For riders ready to step up from motorcycle shoes to full-height boots, the SMX S is an excellent choice that balances protection and comfort.
Tips for Selecting the Right Gear
Choosing the right motorcycle gear isn’t just about price – it needs to fit well, offer solid protection, and suit your riding conditions.
If you’re just getting started, feel free to check out our guide on the Essential Motorcycle Gear for New Riders.
Regardless, here are some key things to keep in mind when picking out your gear.
Fit and Comfort
Trying on gear before buying is important. If your gear is too loose, it won’t protect you properly, and if it’s too tight, it will be uncomfortable and restrict movement. If you’re buying online, check the size chart and read reviews to see how the fit runs.
Look for gear with adjustability features like waist straps, stretch panels, and Velcro closures. These allow you to fine-tune the fit and improve overall comfort.
Material and Durability
Leather offers the best abrasion resistance, making it ideal for high-speed protection. However, it can get hot in the summer and requires more maintenance.
Textile gear is more versatile, lightweight, and breathable. Many textile options include waterproofing and ventilation, making them great for everyday riding.
For added durability in a slide, look for gear that includes reinforced materials like Kevlar, Cordura, or aramid fiber.
Safety Ratings
When choosing a helmet, check for safety certifications. DOT is the minimum requirement in the U.S., but helmets rated by Snell or ECE provide even better impact protection.
For jackets, pants, and gloves, CE-rated armor is a must. Level 1 armor meets the basic safety standard, while Level 2 offers higher impact protection for key areas like the elbows, shoulders, knees, and back.
Some jackets and pants meet CE “AA” or “AAA” ratings, meaning they have been tested for better protection in high-speed crashes.
Weather Considerations
For hot weather, look for mesh panels, zippered vents, and moisture-wicking liners to keep you cool.
If you plan to ride in the rain, choose gear with laminated waterproofing or removable waterproof liners. Be cautious of gear that only claims to be water-resistant, as it may not hold up in heavy rain.
For colder rides, layering is key. Jackets with thermal liners, windproof materials, and insulated gloves can help keep you warm and comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does beginner motorcycle gear cost?
A basic gear setup, including a helmet, jacket, gloves, pants, and boots, typically costs between $400 and $800 if you’re shopping for budget-friendly options.
- Helmet: $100 – $200 (DOT-approved, full-face recommended)
- Jacket: $100 – $250 (textile options are more affordable)
- Gloves: $30 – $80 (leather or textile with knuckle protection)
- Pants: $100 – $200 (Kevlar-reinforced jeans or textile riding pants)
- Boots: $100 – $250 (tall motorcycle boots offer the best protection)
Investing in quality gear upfront can save you money in the long run by providing better durability and protection.
What motorcycle safety gear is most important?
We actually ordered the list above in order of what we think is most important, however, every piece of gear plays an important role.
But for riders who are on a budget and need to buy gear one piece at a time, we recommend prioritizing the following:
- Helmet: The most important piece of gear. A full-face helmet provides the best protection.
- Gloves: Essential for protecting your hands, which are likely to hit the ground first in a crash.
- Tall Motorcycle Boots: Help you prevent some of the most common motorcycle injuries, which are below the belt.
- Jacket and Pants: Protect against road rash and impact injuries. Look for abrasion-resistant materials and armor.
Helpful Tips
1. Buy Gear You’ll Actually Wear
It’s easy to think you need the full leather suit, tall boots, and race-ready setup from day one. But let’s be real – if your gear feels like a hassle, you’re way less likely to wear it every time you ride.
If you’re mostly riding to work, running errands, or cruising around town (and not hitting the track), more casual options can keep you protected without sacrificing comfort. Motorcycle shoes, Kevlar jeans, and a low-key riding jacket blend in better off the bike while still giving you solid protection.
The best gear is the gear you’ll actually put on every single ride – so choose wisely!
2. Avoid Wearing All Black – Although it’s Tempting
Blacked-out gear looks cool, and it’s easy to find, but it also makes you way less visible to other drivers – especially at night or in low-light conditions. Zero contrast means you blend into the road, which is the last thing you want on a motorcycle.
You don’t have to go full neon, but adding some contrast to your gear is a smart move. Look for jackets with reflective panels, gloves with bright accents, or even a helmet in a lighter color. A little visibility goes a long way in keeping you safer on the road.
Conclusion
Getting into motorcycling is exciting, but having the right gear from the start makes all the difference in keeping you safe and comfortable on every ride.
The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to get quality beginner-friendly gear that offers real protection.
By choosing gear that fits well, meets safety standards, and suits your riding style, you’ll be setting yourself up for a better experience on the road.
Whether you go for motorcycle shoes or tall boots, textile or leather, the most important thing is to actually wear your gear every time you ride.