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5 Must-Have Safety Accessories for Every Rider

Written By
Mackenna Alexander
Tags
Beginner Motorcycle GuideBig Hometown Motorcycle DealershipBig Hometown MotorsportsMarietta OH MotorsportsMotorcycle for Sale in Marietta OHMotorcycle GearParkersburg WV MotorsportsSide by Side ComparisonSide by Side GearUnit Accessories
2025-10-04

5 Must-Have Safety Accessories for Every Rider (Beyond Apparel)

When most riders think about safety, the focus is usually on helmets, jackets, and gloves. But protecting yourself goes beyond just apparel. The right accessories for your motorcycle, ATV, or side-by-side can help prevent accidents, reduce damage, and keep you more in control of your machine.

Here are five must-have safety upgrades every rider should consider:

1. Crash Protection: Frame Sliders, Skid Plates & Guards

Tip-overs, trail debris, or unexpected obstacles can do a lot of damage. That’s where crash protection comes in.

  • Motorcycles: Frame sliders, engine guards, and bar-end sliders help protect your bike’s fairings, radiator, and engine from costly damage.

  • ATVs & Side-by-Sides: Skid plates, A-arm guards, and rock sliders shield your undercarriage and suspension components from rocks, stumps, and trail hazards.

👉 Pro Tip: A small investment in protection can save you from a major repair bill later.

2. Upgraded Lighting & Visibility

See better, and make sure others see you.

  • Motorcycles: Swap out stock halogen headlights for bright LEDs or add auxiliary driving lights.

  • ATVs & Side-by-Sides: Trail riding after dark? LED light bars and spotlights dramatically improve visibility and safety.

  • For all riders: Reflective rim tape, helmet decals, or accent lighting not only look sharp—they make you more visible to other drivers.

👉 Pro Tip: A light bar on your UTV isn’t just for looks—it makes night riding safer for the entire group.

3. Brake Upgrades

Good brakes aren’t optional—they’re essential.

  • Motorcycles: Upgrading to performance brake pads or stainless-steel braided lines gives you stronger, more consistent stopping power.

  • ATVs & Side-by-Sides: Heavy-duty pads and larger rotors are ideal for muddy, rocky, or steep conditions where control is critical.

  • Universal tip: Don’t overlook brake fluid—old or contaminated fluid can compromise stopping distance.

👉 Pro Tip: Check your brakes before every ride. It’s the simplest safety habit you can build.

4. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Tires are the only contact point between your machine and the ground, so pressure matters. Riding on low PSI affects handling, traction, and safety.

  • Motorcycles: TPMS alerts you to slow leaks or sudden drops—especially important for highway riders.

  • ATVs & Side-by-Sides: If you air down for trails, TPMS helps you monitor changes and avoid damaging your tires or wheels.

👉 Pro Tip: A hand-held digital gauge is better than relying on gas station pumps. Accurate pressure = safer rides.

5. Phone Mounts & Emergency Communication

Your phone isn’t just for maps—it’s a lifeline.

  • Motorcycles: A vibration-resistant phone mount keeps your GPS visible without distracting you.

  • ATVs & Side-by-Sides: In remote areas, a mounted phone or even a tablet can double as a trail map or group comms hub.

  • Going Off-Grid: Consider a satellite communicator or SOS beacon (like a Garmin inReach) for emergencies where cell service isn’t available.

👉 Pro Tip: Always preload maps before you hit the trail—no service doesn’t mean no navigation.

Bonus Safety Add-Ons Worth Considering

  • Mirrors: Wide-angle or convex mirrors reduce blind spots on any machine.

  • Horn Upgrades: Louder horns make sure you’re heard when visibility is low.

  • Winch or Recovery Gear (ATV/UTV): Not just for convenience—having recovery equipment can get you safely out of tough situations.

  • ABS & Traction Control (Motorcycles): If your bike has options for these systems, they’re proven lifesavers.

Ride Smarter, Ride Safer

Whether you’re carving through twisty back roads, hitting muddy trails, or exploring with friends in a side-by-side, safety upgrades are just as important as riding gear. From crash protection to upgraded lighting and emergency communication, these accessories give you peace of mind and help you focus on what matters—enjoying the ride.

👉 Looking to gear up your ride? Stop by Big Hometown Motorsports to explore our full lineup of safety accessories for motorcycles, ATVs, and side-by-sides. Our team will help you find the right add-ons for your machine so you can ride safer, longer, and smarter.