All bikers know how important it is to have the right kit – the right helmet, leathers, gloves and boots are a necessity for safety and comfort when riding a bike. Taking out insurance for these expensive pieces of clothing and accessories is becoming just as important so that in the event of an accident, you can afford to replace any damaged items.

Below is a guide for bikers and some recommended links:

How to choose the right helmet
When buying a helmet the main thing to consider is how well it fits. It should be snug around the cheeks and top of the head, but not so tight as to either hurt or be uncomfortable. There should be no movement of your head inside the helmet, either from side to side or top to bottom, when you shake your head.

All helmets have to adhere to the ECE and BS6658 approval tests – the benchmark standards that all motorcycle safety helmets for use on the UK’s roads have to pass.

How to choose the right leathers
Your leathers need to be chosen by comfort and fit, in relation to what type of biking you will participate in and to suit your budget.

There are a large number of providers, manufacturers and styles out there, so shop around and take your time. Also set yourself a budget. Once you have purchased your leathers, think about insurance for your kit.

Expensive to buy, cheap to insure
Helmet and leathers could cost you a lot of money to purchase, so can you afford to replace them if they get damaged?

One minor bump on your bike would mean your bike could get repaired through your insurance company, but what about your helmet and leathers? You may get holes and rips in your leathers and they are going to be costly to replace. Furthermore, one dent on your helmet and that also needs to be replaced. Replacing both your helmet and leathers is going to cost a lot of money, so it makes sense to take out insurance!

Motor Insurance recommends that you purchase insurance cover that covers the cost of replacing the items and does not charge you too much excess. The 1stQuote helmet and leather insurance is great value at just £5 per month and it covers your helmet, two pieces (jacket and trousers), boots, gloves, all-in-ones, and jeans. If any of these items are damaged or destroyed in a motorcycles accident, they will be covered under this policy (up to a total claim value of £1000). In addition to this high claim value, another factor that makes this policy great value, is that the excess is just £65 per claim (not per item).