With warm, sunny weather encouraging more motorcyclists onto Wales’s roads, Wales by Bike is reminding riders that shorts, T-shirts and trainers offer very little to no protection if the worst happens.

While lightweight clothing may feel more comfortable in hot weather, it won't protect your skin, muscles or bones in the event of a collision. At even relatively low speeds, sliding across the road surface can cause devastating injuries, often referred to as "road rash", alongside serious fractures and burns.

Motorcycle specific protective clothing is designed to help reduce the severity of injuries. Jackets and trousers with abrasion-resistant materials and CE-approved armour, together with protective gloves, boots and a properly fitted, approved helmet, provide significantly more protection than everyday clothing.

Hot weather can make riding in full protective gear uncomfortable, but removing it is never worth the risk.

Instead, riders should take steps to manage the heat safely by:

• Drinking plenty of water before and during their journey.
• Stopping regularly to cool down and rehydrate.
• Planning routes with rest breaks.
• Avoiding dehydration, which can reduce concentration, slow reaction times and increase fatigue.

A spokesperson for Wales by Bike said:

"No rider ever expects to be involved in a collision, but the consequences of riding in shorts and a T-shirt can be life changing. Protective clothing may feel warm, but it is designed to protect you when you need it most. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks and always dress for the ride, not the weather."

Whether you're commuting, touring or enjoying a weekend ride, make sure your protective clothing is part of every journey. A few extra minutes of discomfort in the heat is far better than a lifetime of injuries that could have been prevented.