Safety gear increases chances of safe ride Published Oct. 17, 2008 By Master Sgt. TADD CLOUSE 756th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron first sergeant LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- There seems to be some confusion on what safety gear is required for a military member to ride a motorcycle. Most of Luke's Airmen wear the proper safety gear every day, but there are some that do not. The violations I've seen in the last month are not wearing a bright upper garment during the day, wearing a backpack over the upper garment, wearing the wrong footwear and having sleeves rolled up. A bright colored upper garment must be worn during the day. ABUs, BDUs and flightsuits do not meet the bright color requirement; something must be worn over them. During the night the upper garment must also be reflective. Reflective belts are not authorized day or night. Most of Luke's riders wear the bright colored/reflective garment, but about a quarter of riders wear a black backpack over the upper garment. The upper garment is not to be covered up even on the back. If you are going to wear a backpack, buy another safety vest and strap it around the backpack. Footwear is required to be sturdy and cover the ankle. Sneakers are the biggest violation. High top sneakers, while providing over the ankle support, are not really sturdy and do not provide over the ankle support. Boots must be worn. Think about what footwear you choose to wear when you ride. The clothing requirement is simple -- everything must be long. Simple enough, right? Yes for most, but a few don't get it. Wearing a long sleeve top with sleeves rolled up does not meet this requirement. The sleeves must be down to the wrist. The weather is getting nicer and more of Luke's riders are coming out. Prior to riding, get the proper safety gear for you and your passenger. For more information on motorcycle safety gear requirements, see AFI 91-207, AFI 31-204, Luke Sup 1 and your unit motorcycle safety representative. Ride safe.