Good gear keeps you warm, dry and protected on long days in the mountains, where it can be sunny in the valley and freezing on the pass an hour later. This is what to wear on our motorcycle trips, and what we provide.
The essentials
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Helmet | Included on our trips; bring your own if you prefer a familiar fit |
| Riding jacket with armour | Protection in a fall and a windproof layer at speed |
| Riding gloves, two pairs | A light pair for the valleys, a warm waterproof pair for the passes |
| Riding boots | Ankle support and dry feet in streams and rain |
| Knee guards | Cheap protection that most falls need |
| Rain cover or rain suit | Rain on the way in and snowmelt spray |
| Balaclava or buff | Cold wind and dust on high passes |
| UV sunglasses | Strong sun and glare from snow at altitude |
Layering for cold passes
Temperatures change fast with height. Start the day with a thermal base layer, add a fleece or light down jacket, and wear your riding jacket on top. Take a layer off in the warm valleys and put it back on before a pass. In April, May, October and on the Spiti bike trip's high days, carry winter gloves.
What we provide, and what you can rent
If you are buying gear, a good jacket, gloves and boots matter most. Everything else can be ordinary warm clothing.
- A complimentary helmet for rider and pillion on our motorcycle trips
- On the Spiti bike trip: a full riding gear set for ₹2,000 per person for the whole tour
- A backup vehicle that carries your bag, so spare layers are always nearby
Off the bike
Pack comfortable shoes, a warm jacket for evenings, a cap, sunscreen with SPF 50 and lip balm. Nights at Pangong and Chandratal camps are cold even in summer.
Questions
Do you provide a helmet on the bike trip?
Yes. A helmet for the rider and pillion is included on our motorcycle trips.
Can I rent riding gear?
On the Spiti bike trip you can rent a full riding gear set for ₹2,000 per person for the tour. Ask us about gear for the Ladakh trip when you book.
Are riding boots necessary?
Strongly recommended. Waterproof boots with ankle support protect you in a fall and keep your feet dry in streams.
How cold does it get on the bike?
Cold on the high passes even in summer, and well below freezing in early mornings in April, May and October. Wear layers under your jacket and carry warm gloves.
