Motorsports & Rider Gear

How to shop for motorsports and rider gear online

Armor ratings. Back and spine protectors are rated under EN 1621-2: Level 1 allows more transmitted force, Level 2 less, so Level 2 offers better protection. Check whether a protector is a full insert or a backpack-mounted panel, and how it sits when you are in your riding position, not standing. Many jackets ship with foam pads in the back pocket rather than real armor, so a separate protector can be a meaningful upgrade.

Visibility. Look for retroreflective material (it bounces headlight light back to its source) rather than plain bright color, which only helps in daylight. Large panels on the back and moving parts like legs and arms are noticed fastest by drivers. A hi-vis backpack is a practical fix if your jacket is dark.

Rider backpacks. Check capacity against what you carry (a 35L pack holds a laptop and a change of clothes), a sternum and waist strap so it stays put at speed, and whether it has a rain cover or water-resistant fabric. Avoid long dangling straps that can flap or catch.

Helmets. In the US, look for DOT FMVSS 218 at minimum, with ECE 22.06 or Snell as additional benchmarks. Measure your head and know your head shape (round, intermediate or long oval), since shape affects fit as much as size. Many stores restrict returns on helmets that have been worn or had the liner removed.

Parts and accessories. Match make, model, year and sometimes VIN-specific trim before ordering. Electrical parts are frequently non-returnable once installed. Check whether a store charges a restocking fee on parts and whether it ships oversized items by freight.

Vetting a store you cannot verify. If a powersports shop has no visible policies, contact page or catalog, confirm the store is operating, how returns work and who handles shipping before paying. Pay with a credit card or other method that offers buyer protection, and keep screenshots of the listing.

Policy conflicts. RiderBag's refund page says you pay return shipping while its shipping page says support emails a free return label, so ask support before sending anything back. Its returns run 30 days, extended to 60 days for purchases made November 1 through December 24, and its warranty covers manufacturing flaws for 6 months.

Budget tiers. Reflective backpacks run $25 to $130 with armor. CE Level 2 back protectors are commonly $50 to $150. Certified helmets range from about $100 to many hundreds.

Which brand fits which buyer

• Motorcycle commuters riding at dawn, dusk or night who want to be seen: RiderBag.
• Riders whose jacket lacks real back armor: RiderBag combo with the CE Level 2 spine protector.
• Holiday gift buyers shopping for a rider: RiderBag, using the extended holiday return window.
• Shoppers who found a part at Orion Powersports or Turismo Racing: confirm the store is open, fitment and return terms in writing before paying, or buy from a retailer that publishes its policies.