Riding a motorcycle in Bangladesh is a necessity for many and a passion for some. However, the country’s bustling roads and unpredictable traffic make safety a top priority. Given how frequently you can get into a situation that is least desirable, here are some essential motorcycle accessories that can save your life.
Helmet
In Bangladesh, wearing a helmet is legally mandatory, but it’s more than just a legal requirement—it’s a lifesaver. Choose a helmet that meets safety standards like DOT or ECE.
Try to invest in a good helmet, and not the plastic ones your moto taxis offer. The price of a decent certified helmet can be as low as Tk5,000. The important things to ensure before making the purchase are the authenticity of the certifications Given the hot and humid weather, opt for a helmet with good ventilation. Full-face helmets offer the best protection, shielding your entire face and head.
Protective gear
The chaotic traffic and uneven road conditions in Bangladesh mean that protective gear is crucial. Invest in a riding jacket, gloves, and pants with built-in armour for your elbows, knees, and back. Look for lightweight, breathable materials that can withstand the heat while protecting from accidents. It is quite frightening to see how many bikers ride without any of these even on the highways.
Reflective gear
With the lack of well-lit roads around Dhaka along with frequent power outages and low visibility especially in rural areas, reflective gear is essential. Adding reflective strips to your jacket or bike and wearing a reflective vest can make you more visible to other drivers at night, reducing the risk of accidents.
Riding gloves
When a rider falls off a bike, the hand is usually the first to hit the road surface instinctively. This can lead to painful blisters, which can be prevented by wearing motorcycle gloves.
In Bangladesh’s unpredictable weather, gloves protect your hands from the sun, rain, and injuries. Choose gloves that offer good grip, reinforced knuckles, and padding on the palms to protect against impact and abrasion.
Motorcycle boots
There have also been countless times I ruined my perfectly clean trousers on rainy days thanks to sudden splashes from the puddle.
Given the diverse terrain and frequent rain, sturdy, waterproof boots are a must. Over-the-ankle boots with non-slip soles protect your feet and provide better control on wet and uneven surfaces.
First-aid kit
In the event of minor accidents, a first-aid kit can be invaluable. Ensure it contains essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers, which can be hard to find quickly in rural areas. My advice would be to keep a separate waterproof bag for them and keep them in any available storage your bike comes with, if not simply carry a fanny pack.
Equipping yourself with these accessories will help you navigate the roads more safely, allowing you to enjoy your ride with greater confidence.
