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Releases 2007 » Winter clothing recommendations for bikers
WINTER CLOTHING RECOMMENDATIONS
FOR BIKERS
Romford, 30th January 2007 - As winter throws
unpredictable weather at us, specialist motorcycle insurance broker
Devitt launches its winter clothing recommendations for bikers in
a bid to help cut down on accidents.
Devitt’s motorcycle policyholders made 26% more claims in
November 2006 than they did in August which shows the increase in
accident frequency during winter. As winter road conditions present
new challenges and hazards to the motorcyclist, the need for correct
clothing is ever important to allow full concentration on riding.
Be Seen – The days are darker for longer
at this time of year and bad weather also impedes visibility, which
creates an even stronger case for wearing high visibility and reflective
clothing. High visibility vests now come in a variety of guises,
but the ones with zips as opposed to Velcro tend to be a better
option for bikers as it stops the vests from being blown apart at
motorway speeds. Reflective tape can also be used on both your bike
and crash helmet to increase night time visibility.
Be Snug – If you’re not prepared, wet
and cold weather can make biking a miserable experience and also
potentially dangerous. On long journeys the onset of hypothermia
is a real winter risk as temperatures plummet, but there is a wide
range of weatherproof materials available which retain heat and
provide protection. For the ultimate in winter warmth, electrically
heated gloves, socks and waistcoats are an option.
Be Supple – Man-made fibres and softer leathers
(such as Kangaroo) are more flexible and lighter, which is important
for both safety and comfort. If you plan on wearing waterproofs
or textile jackets over leathers you may want to consider getting
a size larger than normal to ensure you have enough room to move
about on the bike. Remember too that thicker winter gloves will
give less ‘feel’ for your bike’s controls over
thinner summer ones, and may take a little time to get used too.
Be Safe – With CE approved body armour now
more common in suits and accessories, today’s bikers can be
protected from injuries while enjoying the benefits of comfort,
visibility and fashion. Even if you are not wearing race leathers,
there’s no excuse for not having CE approved elbow, shoulder,
knee, hip and back armour in place as many winter outfits now come
with this or make provision for it.
Be Stylish – Of course safety is the main
priority, but we all want to look our best. The range of kit is
very wide so everyone should be able to find a style that suits
them while providing full protection. Many textile suits also provide
enough room for you to wear them over every day clothes, handy for
the commuter in shirt and trousers or if you just want to be in
jeans and a jumper when you arrive at your destination.
William Hughes, Devitt’s Deputy Managing Director, says “Being
in the insurance industry, we get to see the harsh reality of the
perils of the winter season. It is more important than ever for
bikers to wear the right gear to protect them from the increased
risks. The trouble is many people think that safety comes at the
expense of style but these days this is simply not true. Biking
gear has come a long way over the last 10 years so there doesn’t
need to be the challenge of fashion versus function. Gone are the
days of Hobson’s choice of stiff black leathers. The range
available is much more varied and caters for the different needs
of riders – men and women - racers and commuters, the trend-followers
and the more conservative. The wrong clothing can be the difference
between life and death. The right clothing can help keep you safe
– and look great too.”
- ENDS -
For further information, please contact:
Chris Bottle
Head of Marketing
Devitt Insurance Services Limited
Tel: 01708 385959
Email: chris.bottle@devittinsurance.com
Web: www.devittinsurance.com
Notes to editors:
Devitt Insurance Services Limited is a specialist motorcycle insurance
broker, and is part of The Royal Bank of Scotland Group. Authorised
and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA), the business
grew from the success of Devitt DA, established in 1936, which revolutionised
the motorcycle insurance industry with the innovative idea of offering
customers instant insurance cover through the motorcycle dealer.
Devitt’s success has allowed it to expand into other areas
of Personal Lines insurance, including car and home insurance. Devitt
is also recognised for arranging insurance schemes for employee
groups, clubs, associations and other affinity groups.
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