Motorcycle Gear Market

Market Overview

The global motorcycle gear market revenue was valued at USD 14,073 million in 2024. It is projected to reach USD 24,575 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 7.22% during the forecast period (2024–2032). 

Motorcycle gear plays a crucial role in enhancing safety and protection for riders, particularly in the face of accidents or adverse weather conditions. Statistics consistently show that motorcyclists face a significantly higher risk of fatalities, severe injuries, and long-term disabilities compared to other road users, especially concerning head and neck injuries. However, the right motorcycle clothing can mitigate these risks effectively. When riders wear proper motorcycle gear, they benefit from comprehensive protection. Helmets, for instance, safeguard the head from traumatic injuries, while sturdy jackets and pants provide defense against abrasions, cuts, and road burns. These protective measures are essential as they prevent potentially life-altering injuries that can result from crashes or falls. The heightened awareness of these risks has contributed to a growing demand for motorcycle safety equipment. More people are recognizing the importance of investing in quality gear to ensure their safety on the road. This trend is driven by a desire to avoid the physical and financial costs associated with accidents, as well as a commitment to responsible riding practices.

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

The Rise in the Frequency of Road Accidents coupled with Growing Demand for Motorcycle Gear

The increasing prevalence of road accidents, often exacerbated by factors like reckless riding practices and street racing, has underscored the critical importance of motorcycle gear. As awareness grows about the potential dangers of motorcycling, so does the demand for high-quality gear that offers reliable protection. This trend reflects a broader commitment within the riding community to prioritize safety and responsible riding habits. In summary, motorcycle gear plays a pivotal role in enhancing rider safety by providing robust protection against a range of potential hazards and adverse conditions. Its evolution continues to be driven by advancements in materials and design, aimed at maximizing both safety and comfort for motorcyclists worldwide.

Beyond physical protection, motorcycle gear contributes significantly to the overall security and safety of riders. Helmets, for instance, are paramount in safeguarding the head from traumatic injuries, which are a leading cause of fatalities in motorcycle accidents. Similarly, durable jackets, pants, gloves, and boots offer protection against abrasions, cuts, and road burns, ensuring riders are shielded from the impact of falls or slides. Moreover, motorcycle gear enhances the ride experience by providing comfort and functionality tailored to the demands of riding. It allows riders to focus on the road without being compromised by discomfort or exposure to adverse weather conditions. This versatility extends to protection against inclement weather such as rain, snow, wind, and cold temperatures, maintaining rider comfort and safety across diverse riding conditions.

Helmets : Safety Gears for the Riders

Helmets are utilized by riders to protect themselves from injuries. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders, more than a million people in the U.S. suffer from brain injuries annually, with over half of these injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents. This heightened awareness of head trauma is driving increased demand for protective gear in the foreseeable future. The motorcycle market has experienced steady growth in recent years, particularly in developing nations where there is a demand for 300–400 cc bikes at affordable prices. The introduction of renowned motorcycle brands such as Harley Davidson, Aprilia, and Ducati has contributed to market expansion in these regions. In India, the growing interest in bike racing among young enthusiasts, coupled with attractive deals from motorcycle manufacturers offering riding gear such as outerwear, gloves, and helmets as additional incentives, is fueling growth in the riding gear industry. Social media platforms play a significant role in enhancing brand visibility for various riding gear brands, with millions of users engaging in online forums where influencers provide insights into different riding gears. Additionally, the accessibility of bike touring packages offered by numerous travel companies serves as another significant driver. The advancement in product offerings, including helmets equipped with Bluetooth capabilities for answering calls, listening to music, and receiving navigation instructions, has further stimulated demand for these gears.

Market Restraint

High costs associated with the protective gear keeping it aside from significant adoption by middle class consumers

A significant restraint for the motorcycle gear market is the cost associated with high-quality protective gear. While safety is paramount for riders, premium motorcycle gear such as top-tier helmets, reinforced jackets, and specialized riding boots can be expensive. This high cost may deter some potential customers, especially in regions where disposable income is limited or where motorcycles are primarily seen as a budget-friendly mode of transport. Additionally, affordability barriers can hinder widespread adoption of safety gear among casual riders or those new to motorcycling.

Market Opportunities

Technological Advancements in Gearing Equipment

An opportunity lies in the increasing focus on technological advancements within motorcycle gear. Innovations such as helmets with integrated Bluetooth communication, advanced impact absorption materials, and smart textiles are reshaping the market. These technological advancements not only enhance the safety and comfort of riders but also cater to the growing demand for connectivity and convenience while riding. Furthermore, as consumer awareness regarding safety standards and regulations improves globally, there is a growing market for certified and compliant motorcycle gear that meets stringent safety requirements, presenting opportunities for manufacturers to differentiate their products and cater to safety-conscious riders.

Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market is bifurcated into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Motorcycles have become increasingly popular in North America and Europe, driven by the growth of recreational rides, bike racing events, and rising traffic congestion, leading to a significant uptick in demand for riding gear such as helmets, footwear, jackets, and gloves. The United States leads the global motorcycle gear market in North America and is expected to maintain its dominance through the projected period. The increasing number of motorcyclists, coupled with advancements in manufacturing capabilities, is bolstering the country's prosperity in this sector. Recently, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) launched a new motorcycle training initiative aimed at standardizing regulations for fairer and safer racing practices, while advocating for riders' rights on a national level and promoting local racing events. These training programs are instrumental in attracting young enthusiasts to participate in motocross activities, thereby presenting significant growth opportunities for motocross gear manufacturers in the U.S.

In the Asia-Pacific region, which boasts the largest motorcycle market globally, revenue growth has slowed in major countries like India, China, and Bangladesh. However, China stands out as the epicenter of the region's fastest-growing motocross gear industry, poised to offer lucrative prospects for key market players. The increasing demand for various types of riding and protective gear, including helmets, jerseys, jackets, and boots, is driving sales for Chinese motorcycle gear suppliers. The proliferation of motorcycle training schools, competitive racing championships, and gear manufacturers is expected to make China a highly profitable market through 2031. Meanwhile, motorcycle sales in Bangladesh have quadrupled since 2016, supported by investments from Indian OEMs and favorable governmental policies, surpassing 600,000 units by 2019.Asia-Pacific emerged as the largest market in 2018, driven by increased awareness and penetration of motorcycle safety gear in countries like India, China, and Singapore. Rising urban discretionary incomes have enabled consumers to prioritize expenditure on protective motorcycle gear, reflecting a growing demand for safer riding practices from 2019 to 2025.

The Latin American market for helmets is forecasted to expand in the coming years due to heightened awareness of safety measures amidst the comparatively higher risks associated with motorcycles and bicycles compared to enclosed vehicles. Helmets play a crucial role in reducing the likelihood of severe head injuries and brain trauma in the event of an accident, contributing to improved safety outcomes. Over recent years, diverse regions and countries have implemented varying policy measures aimed at reducing road traffic accidents, underscoring the importance of helmet usage. Leading motorcycle manufacturers such as Honda, Hero, and Bajaj, headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, distribute their products globally, including in regions like Latin America and Africa. These OEMs, alongside companies like Royal Enfield and TVS, have expanded into the riding gear business, showcasing their products in dealerships to enhance the consumer purchasing experience.

Segmental Analysis

Based on Product, Protective gear dominated the Market demand attributed to growing adoption of helmet as a result of stringent regulations imposed by the governments across the globe. Governments worldwide have increasingly mandated the use of helmets for motorcyclists as a critical safety measure. These regulations are designed to mitigate the risk of head injuries and fatalities in motorcycle accidents. In many countries, wearing a helmet that meets specific safety standards is mandatory by law. For example, regulations such as DOT (Department of Transportation) standards in the United States, ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) standards in Europe, and ISI (Indian Standards Institute) standards in India enforce stringent criteria for helmet safety and quality. Compliance with these regulations is not only a legal requirement but also enhances consumer confidence in the protective capabilities of helmets, thereby driving demand.

Based on Vehicle Type, Passenger vehicles dominated the global automotive camera market owing to increased consumer demand for enhanced convenience and comfort. Passenger vehicles are subject to stringent safety regulations worldwide, prompting automakers to integrate advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) for enhanced safety features. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing vehicles equipped with advanced technologies that enhance convenience, comfort, and overall driving experience. Automotive cameras contribute to features such as parking assistance, 360-degree surround view, and blind-spot monitoring, which improve maneuverability and reduce driver stress. As consumer expectations evolve, automakers are responding by equipping passenger vehicles with increasingly sophisticated camera-based systems.

Recent Developments

• In October 2022, Steelbird Hi-tech India Limited, the foremost helmet manufacturer in Asia, successfully inaugurated 117 RiderZ Shoppe retail stores across India, Bangladesh, and Cambodia. Presently, the company is committed to expanding its presence significantly, with plans to open an additional 1000 Steelbird RiderZ Shoppe outlets in the coming years.
• In June 2022, Gianni Falco showed his newest pair of cycling shoes, the Starboy 3. It's light and has a classic lace-up closure.
• In September 2022, Fox Racing, a market leader in protective gear for motocross and mountain bikes, announced its expansion into performance training.