Eardrum Epiphany

How riding can hurt your ears, and how to protect them

Most of us know that riding a motorcycle can damage your hearing. Most think mechanical noise or loud exhaust are the culprits here, but they’re not. The roar of wind rushing around the rider’s head or helmet is actually the big issue, especially when moving at freeway speeds. Experts say one should limit one’s exposure to these high decibel levels to no more than 15 minutes per day…and if you ride a lot, you’re getting loads more than that. What to do? Wear earplugs!

Street Savvy

I have been using cheap and plentiful foam-type earplugs since I began riding streetbikes back in college, on the street and while racing, and I even see some pro motocrossers wearing them, AMA Supercross champ Eli Tomac included. And I’m sure I’ve helped save my tender eardrums during those decades. Just roll them up (it helps if they’re cold), slide ’em into your ear canals and wait for them to expand. Poof! I can still hear cars, trucks and traffic, and while it’s a bit of a hassle when talking to a riding buddy, it’s better than not hearing them at all.

— Mitch Boehm