Warm and dry are the essentials for motorcycling gear says Harry Mottram. He discovered there's quite a range of styles, fabrics and fashions available

My life was once saved by a copy of Private Eye magazine. Back in the 1970s when I used to ride a Suzuki 250 backwards and forwards from London to Taunton it used to get very cold. So cold I would stuff anything down my jacket to keep prevent perma frost from setting in. Not having biking leathers I opted for heavy coats and pull-overs. To supplement these I found newspapers and magazines stuffed down the front of my jacket, (or even rolled around the insides of my sleeves) gave some protection from the icy winds of Salisbury Plain.

No need for such desperate measures now. With such a wealth of biking jackets and clothing available even a hard-up student can afford the right gear. And it doesn't have to all be in shades of black. So here's a few insider tips on must-haves for biking.

Helmet

This is the only safety accessory you must wear by law. Since you have to wear it everywear you go there is one over riding rule: it must feel comfortable. Prices begin around £100 for a full-face helmet, slightly cheaper for the open face version. Wearing glasses can be uncomfortable with a tight fitting helmet. One alternative are prescription glasses. Should you drop or damage your helmet it should be replaced immediately so as not to compromise safety.

Gloves

With the advent of heated handlebar grips many bikers choose to wear lighter gloves in the winter. These have the advantage of allowing you to feel more in control of your bike's switches and buttons compared to wearing a heavier pair of leather gauntlets. It is usual anyway to have separate winter and summer gloves with possibly a pair of overmits for extreme weather.

Jackets

One of the first decisions many bikers make is whether to go leather or non-leather. Leather jackets are sexy, figure hugging and very comfortable. Many non-bikers wear leather biker jackets as a fashion accessory along with numerous rock stars. There is a huge range of colours and styles from the classic black jacket with fringed arm decoration to all in one suits in multi colours. Non leather jackets are made in a variety of breathable man-made synthetic materials that are lightweight, warm and comfortable. They also look quite respectable when you park your bike and enter a restaurant or theatre. Good quality jackets will have detachable armour plating to protect the elbow and shoulders. These can be replaced when damaged allowing you to rertain the original jacket.

Trousers

These should not only be waterproof but warm and hardwearing. Non leather trousers will be lightweight and should have detachable synthetic armour plating to protect the knees.

Boots

Although you might be able to get away with wellies or army surplus boots with a protected ankle, having a pair of bniking boots is imperative for long journeys and fowl weather. Prices start at £? For a basic pair.

Underwear

If you've ever wondered how long distance motorcycle couriers manage to survive hours exposed to the elements the answer is heated underwear.

Neck tubes

To prevent icy drafts leaving you with a head cold try a neck tube.

Scarves

Desert scarves are popular accessory with some bikes. The wealth of soft material presses into the neck area and covers the chin creating an effective seal against the elements.