Safety Gear You Need for Your Powersport Vehicle

Powersport vehicles are great for venturing out into the great outdoors, but before you go you’ll want to pack some important safety gear. If you’re not sure what to bring, don't worry! We here at East Bay Motorsports have put together a guide so you know exactly what to bring along. If you’re still interested in purchasing a powersport vehicle we hope you'll stop by our dealership in Hayward, California! 

Off-Road Vehicles

When it comes to all terrain vehicles like dirt bikes, ATVs, and UTVs, most of the protective gear is pretty similar! Firstly and foremost, you’ll want a well fitted high-quality helmet before you go riding on the nearby trails. You’ll also want to wear other protective clothing such as long pants, closed-toe shoes, and even a riding jacket. If you have an ATV or dirt bike you may even be interested in purchasing some riding gloves and a few knee and elbow pads. If you have a larger vehicle with storage, such as a UTV we recommend bringing along a first aid kit and a few tools in case your vehicle breaks down. However, if you can find a place to store these items on your smaller model we encourage you to carry them with you at all times! 

Personal Watercrafts

Off-roading vehicles generally have very few state requirements regarding safety gear. This isn’t the case with personal watercraft, and you’ll want to check your state’s guidelines before getting off the dock. In most of the U.S. it’s required that all riders have a life jacket on at all times. You’ll also need to purchase an emergency lanyard. This goes around your neck as you drive and, if you fall from your watercraft, will cut the power immediately so you can get back onto your vessel. It’s also required that personal watercrafts have a good ventilation system in place and that there is a functioning fire extinguisher on board at all times. Finally, you’ll need to purchase a whistle to comply with most state laws to grab a person's attention in case of an emergency. However, if you’d like you can substitute a whistle for an air horn and, if you’re extra precautious, purchase a few flares.

Snowmobiles

Similar to all-terrain vehicles, it’s important that you are wearing the correct clothes when you ride your snowmobile and have a high quality helmet. While you may still want to purchase knee or elbow pads, it’s more important that the gear you are wearing is warm and insulating. You’ll also want to store a few emergency tools within your snowmobile, just in case your vehicle randomly breaks down. We also recommend you invest in an impressive emergency kit. This should include first aid supplies, food, and water. We also advise having a flare and GPS on hand and even a small ice pick if possible.

We hope this guide has been helpful in preparing you for your first outing with your new powersport vehicle. If you’re located in the Bay Area and need your powersport vehicle served, or are interested in purchasing a new one, we encourage you to visit our dealership! We offer both new and used inventory as well as an amazing service department and financing rates.