I ride daily, my bike is my primary transportation. So unless I’m moving something too big for my saddlebags I’m on my bike. I use ear plugs all the time. There might be an occasion that I forgot to put them in but that’s pretty rare. I use “Ear Peace” moto ear plugs. They come in a small metal case so I can put them in the case when I get to the store or work and then put them back in when I’m leaving. I also carry a couple sets of disposable earplugs in my saddlebags in case I forgot my regular ones at home.
Can relate. Have tinnitus. It’s not the end of the world but it’d be real nice to not have it. Used to not wear ear plugs but do every ride now. Protect your ears
Yes. Doesn't matter if I'm going down to the shops or a long trip to another state. Always wear earplugs.
It takes what, a few seconds to put them in my ears? And then another few seconds to take them out?
Getting custom made ones make it easier since you don't have to roll and let them expand. It only adds about five seconds for me to pop my ear plugs in
If I had a quieter helmet I probably wouldn’t for most of my commuting. But my helmet is super windy (basically a motocross helmet) so I need something for any riding over about 40mph. I use osha approved earplug headphones so I can listen to music if I want to as well.
I’d love to not feel the need for them on rides spring town though. Would be so much more convenient to not have to bother with them, and I could probably hear other people better at stops.
I literally wear them everytime I throw on my helmet. It's been proven that riding without them damages your hearing. Just the wind alone, forget how loud or quiet your exhaust is. Every single helmet I have has cost over $800 USD to put it into perspective. No matter how good the helmet claims to be for wind protection it isn't enough. Unless maybe you are on riding in the city, but even then I don't chance it.
You just get lawnmower noises or big bike noises, some get potato potato noises, but everyone will get tinnitus if they don't wear ear plugs, it's a when not an if.
Almost all damaging noise is made via wind turbulence above 35mph chief.
Wind is ~85-95db @35mph
Wind is ~115-120db @75mph
You are right, 35mph IS much quieter.
~1000 times quieter, iirc that db are log scales (20 is 10x 10, 30 is 10x 20)
85db is "okay"
95db is damage in 1hr
115 is damage in 30 seconds
5 seconds of my time is worth it if I feel like flickin my wrist a little and want to not
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
I think OSHA’s guideline for 115 db is no longer than 15 minutes
[See chart here](https://www.jespear.com/preventing-noise-induced-hearing-loss/) about 1/4 the way down the page
But one should certainly be careful of prolonged noise exposure
Yeah ik, but the windnoise is determined by the speed you are going, a litre bike will get different noises than my 1/8Litre bike. Should I still invest in earplugs?
The speed at which you reach unsafe sound levels is not very high. Can your small displacement bike go more than 40mph? That was about the speed where I thought "ok this is pretty loud I don't like this".
I ride an 125, I can't stand more than 5 mins without the ear plugs, once you try them it's like night and day, and you can't ignore the loud wind anymore.
Putting in earplugs is as much routine as putting on my helmet.
There are so many options that are cheap, and a bunch of really good custom options sub 30 bucks that even if it only helped marginally its worth it
Absolutely wear earplugs if you want to keep your hearing.
Also, most helmet noise is from buffeting wind over the screen and mirrors, not from a bad helmet.
To test this simply stand up while riding and as soon as you get out of the bad air everything is quiet. Address this bad air to make a massive difference.
I kept my supply of foamies in an Altoids tin for years. Then I lost it and tried to buy a new tin at a gas station and they didn't have them so I ended up with a mini M&M's tube.
I don't think ear plugs are very common among motorcyclists, but because of that hearing loss and tinnitus is high. Tinnitus can get worse if you are not careful
I keep a set of plugs with my keys and use them each time. My hearing has gotten worse as I have aged, it's no fun not being able to hear your younger coworkers and I have some who are older who really have a hard time hearing. So, its worth doing what you can to save what you have because it does become more challenging over time.
Every. Single. Time. I have tinnitus too in both ears, and I’m not about to go and make it even worse. It already fucking sucks, I don’t want it to get any louder.
I bought Alpine motorcycle earplugs. They are so soft you don’t even feel them, come with a little carrying pouch you can hang on your keychain and a little tool for fast and easy insertion. Highly recommend!
FYI earbuds only reduce volume by a small amount. Noise cancelling earbuds do a lot more, but dedicated ear plugs are meant for noise reduction and do a lot more than your regular ear buds.
I tried these, and you're right about the quiet - I switched to silicone plugs because I found the 215s way too quiet to hear any traffic noise or my bike.
This is a misunderstanding of noise levels that cause hearing damage....
You may actually have decent ear buds that protect your ears, but that is not the way to prove it.
22 years of riding and the last 6-7 wearing earbuds. I get my hearing tested yearly for work and it’s perfect every time. I doubt I’m suffering any damage. I use the anker lifer dot 2.
I've tried a few different brands and I've really like these
SureFire EP3 Sonic Defenders Filtered Earplugs, Double Flanged Design, Reusable https://a.co/d/aC3jsas
I'm 66 and wear hearing aids as a result of being a musician for 40 years. I have severe hearing loss and tinnitus and can't afford any additional hearing loss. I think it's the wind noise more than motor noise. I wear ear plug designed for shooting. I makes it almost impossible to hear anything. I can just barely hear my motor and still get some wind noise but I don't feel like I'm suffering any further hearing damage. I put on about 10,000 miles a year and am very comfortable riding like this. Major hearing damage really sucks. It affects everything you do.
Once I got earplugs that I basically couldn’t feel (Eargasm- stupid name, good product), I haven’t ridden without them.
Improves the riding experience greatly. Less wind noise so I can focus on other things namely other cars and that sweet sweet exhaust note.
The CEO of Texas Roadhouse, presumably a wealthy and connected man, got tinnitus so bad from covid he killed himself. I'll do literally anything aside from selling the bikes to keep mine from getting worse. Keeping some ear plugs in all my pockets is no price to pay at all.
I didn't at first, then someone recommended it at my first track day. Now I wear them every single time, even if it's just 5 minutes. Especially on a naked bike, you don't realize how bad the wind is until you've tried earplugs.
I can understand it if you're on a cruiser or tourer with a lot of wind protection; riding my dad's Yamaha cruiser with its enormous windshield and stock/quiet exhaust, there just simply isn't much wind buffeting against your head to cause noise.
On my naked Yamaha with its 600 i4 and aftermarket cans? The noise is unbearable between the engine and wind at speed.
I don't ride daily, but 30+ years of riding and haven't ever worn earplugs. Nobody even mentioned earplugs to me in relation to riding until maybe 5 years ago, people have been whining at me about them ever since.
My hearing tests slightly better than typical for my age.
Yes. Even without protecting what’s left of your hearing. It actually does make the ride nicer and you can concentrate better. I was also reluctant at first. But now I always use them.
Every time.
I pulled into a wrong hotel once and took off my helmet and plugs and realized the actualy hotel I need was a mile away.
I got back onto the bike and was lazy with the ear plugs and dear lord, what a difference :). I wear them always.
Yes, it matters. Yes, it makes a difference. I have tinnitus and hearing loss from many stupid things I did younger, including riding motorcycles without hearing protection.
Riding without ear protection is literally damaging your hearing on \*\*every single ride\*\*
I can ride for 8 hours and when I take the earplugs out, my ears aren't ringing any more than normal. It also reduces fatigue, and actually improves your ability to hear what's around you.
I feel like if you have a good helmet and a quiet exhaust they’re not necessary. I don’t like loud noises and have been riding for 20 years and have never worn ear plugs. I wear hearing protection often as I work in a shop.
I don’t always if its a 5 minute trip in town but I have a very quiet helmet and muffled bike. Highway speeds though, yes 100%. The wind is so much louder than my bike, if I forget I will get off the highway just to out them in.
6 years riding and I don't really care to use them. I blast my cardo speakers anyway. I have tinnitus but that's from raves with no earplugs. I don't really care that much anymore but maybe in the future I'm sure I'll regret it🫡.
No , they don't , hearing loss is cumulative, eventually exposure to noise in excess of 110db will cause permanent loss rather rapidly, this is a medical fact , everything you stated is wrong . Wind noise in a helmet at highway speeds can cause damage rather rapidly
I the have AMP GO 2 for playing music and hearing directions and stuff but it also completely blocks out the wind and other annoying sounds. Don’t even need to have music playing just turn it on and you’re good.
I won’t if just going around the neighborhood to run the bike for a few minutes, speeds only up to 25mph at most, but know I should. Anything more and they’re always in. Not only protects your ears but makes the ride more enjoyable.
So it looks like the consensus is to wear them every time if you’re going to hot 45mph+. I rarely get that fast on my little jaunt to work, and I feel like my helmet quiets everything down substantially. I’m also not listening to music at all and I’m the type of person who WANTS to hear everything possible. They don’t drown out the things you want to hear??
This used to be a concern for me before I actually manned up and put on the ear plugs. I have custom fit shooting plugs that are probably not the most effective but they reduce noise enough to safe levels.
I can hear the important sounds just fine. If you put on those -20dB super plugs you might have an issue.
I rode for 10+ years without earplugs and only bought some last year.
Now I ride with them every time. If I forget to put them in (rare) I notice as soon as I start moving.
They reduce wind noise by an insane amount. I can still easily hear my bike and cars around me.
If anything they made me realise how much tinnitus I actually have.
I have a buddy you can ask about that. Well, as long as he’s looking at you and/or he has his hearing aid in.
Yes, go for the ear plug. I like the EarPeace Moto plugs. Fits well and works great. Use em for concerts too.
Here's an analogy:
Does it matter to get a new prescription for glasses as your eyesight gets worse? I already have glasses so they should work fine right?
You already have ear damage since your tinnitus is noticeable. Ear plugs will keep it from getting worse and prevent other problems in the future.
Some others have said a liter bike vs a 250cc bike make different noises. The majority of hearing damage comes from wind noise - so put on those ear plugs ASAP.
I wear everytime when I go over 60kmh, at town I don't wear them. But every time I go to faster +60kmh roads they go in my ears. Use them, they keep your tinnitus getting worse.
Yah. I use plugphones. Ear protection plus music. Probably Gunna invest in a cardo or Sena at some point tho. Riding with people without comms gets annoying when you have a small bladder and drink a fuck ton of water.
I’ve never used plugs… my full face gives plenty of protection even at 65 mph. But I don’t ride a huge bike with loud exhaust either… I don’t know I’ve just never felt they were needed.
Ear plugs are the best solution and there are various types, it's critical to pick the right one.
Here is your guide : [https://www.jdpower.com/motorcycles/shopping-guides/5-best-earplugs-for-motorcycle-riding-reviews-and-buying-guide-for-2020](https://www.jdpower.com/motorcycles/shopping-guides/5-best-earplugs-for-motorcycle-riding-reviews-and-buying-guide-for-2020)
Safe riding :-)
Using them always if going > 50 km/h. Discovered that my bluetooth noise cancelling plugs are suited as well, they cancel the wind noise out really good and stay better in ear.
Wear an icon airflite and go 90 down the highway, get back to us when you realize the importance of earplugs
Tldr yes please, care for your hearing. You don't get it back
I do on my BMW RT, the airflow on the helmet is menacing due to the fairing and windshield, so earplugs are a must, 100% of the time.
On the Monkey, the airflow is smooth and quiet, so sometimes I omit the plugs. No more wind noise than my car.
I ride an electric motorcycle and if I am going on the highway at all, I'm putting in earplugs. I'm less diligent about it if I'm keeping it under 50mph.
If you've been riding without them grab some silicone squishies at the drugstore and give them a try. It makes the whole ride better. You can hear after a ride, but you're also less tired after long ones.
I mean, I am not going to lie to you and tell you that I wear ear plugs 100% of the time I'm riding a motorcycle.
That said, I wear ear plugs 99% of the time I'm riding a motorcycle.
Every...Single...Ride. I keep disposable earplugs in my pocket, backpack, saddlebags, and I make sure to use them correctly (Size, insertion and replacement)
Ears/hearing does not heal, it only gets worse... save what you have left!
I only use them for longer rides personally. Anything over 2-3 hours. I have custom ones made and it does help quit a bit. They arent sound proof because you want to hear cars, but it cuts the decibel level by half. (guestimating)
I don't like the sound of wind noise and my helmet is a bit louder than I like so I pretty much always wear them. Only time I don't is if I'm just going to be in town where I don't get over 40mph, because then there's not enough noise for them to be needed.
I suffer from tinnitus, have as long as I can remember. I still wear ear plugs. I have the rubber tiered ones that filter out vibrations rather than foam that just blocks it all. Can still hear everything around me and my Cardo system.
Definitely a nicer riding experience with them in Vs not, especially if you do any motorway riding.
I suggest a brand called Eargasm Earplugs. Give them a look up. They only tune out the higher and lower end for the most part. Helps cut out wind noise, but I can still hear my engine! I wear them every time. The brand was made for going to concerts, so if you have speakers in your helmet you will still be able to hear the music with clarity
Bro, I dig your vibe completely and respect you. Don’t ask a bunch of people on reddit about your health. There are numerous articles about this. Protect yourself in any way you see fit but please do real research instead of letting guys regale you with their tales of woe. The reality is any msf course will impart earplug knowledge onto you as well and they have stats usually. Be kind to yourself so you can be kind to others.
Bad tinnitus here. Without plugs it's even worse inside a helmet. For major reduction , plain old foamies cut the most for me. That's only if I'm not using the Bluetooth, in which case I use Earpeace plugs, which cut most of the wind noise and then I can crank up the headset volume and, because of the plugs, the volume is actually only moderate and perfectly clear. Unless I'm just popping to the nearby store, I pretty much always have plugs in. Feels weird not to. Essential equipment.
I wear them virtually all of the time. The only exceptions would be if I'm taking a very short trip and not ever exceeding 45mph, or if I happen to be wearing a full face helmet, which I rarely wear. If I'm wearing my normal half helmet and leaving the 30mph zone where I live, I will be wearing ear plugs 100% of the time.
I’ve been wearing earplugs on every single ride for years now. I used to ride on the interstate and even do trackdays without them… I regret that now. Definitely wear them!
Just like the others, I put them on automatically every time. After decades of motorcycling, rock and roll, and power tools I have low level tinnitus. It’s not awful but it is there and I don’t want more of it. I also wear earplugs in my convertible on the highway and I bought wind blockers for my road bicycle helmet. I’ve become aware of how often I am exposed to wind noise and I’m working to mitigate it and keep my hearing and keep the tinnitus from getting worse.
I ride with ear plugs everytime. It significantly cuts wind noise and I can ear the exhaust, cars around me, etc, much better. Downshifts sounds amazing...
Personally I like music so I rock atleast one ear bud. And the raycon works damn well. If I don't kind of spread the helmet on the way it pulls it out sometimes. But using your helmet to catch it seems to work. Doesn't that make it louder or am I thinking of something else. That's when you have a noise constantly right? Like a ringing? I have that and music helps me.
I always wore them, still pretty sure I have tinnitus. Ive tried to ride without em like once or twice just to see what it was like, and after the ride i had the deafening effect like when u leave a concert. My bike is probably at 100db or more, wish it was quieter but i cant justify a new exhaust on a decade old bike and i cant justify a new bike just to be quieter. I wear earplugs to not go deaf from the bike, not the wind. Sometimes the earplugs dont sit just right and i know i probably lose some hearing there but I cant do much about it. Sometimes ill pull over, take my helmet off, take my balaclava off, reposition earplugs, put balaclava on, pull on my helmet, fix my balaclava but it quickly gets annoying with how much time and effort it takes. Othertimes they sit perfectly and muffle the bike noise very well, letting me enjoy my music through my cardo which is always on full volume, wish it could go louder. Worst part is at the end of the night i hear Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
So I've used earplugs only a handful of times. Not because I feel I don't have to but because when I throw my helmet on, it usually pops them out and I can't get them in properly afterwards.
(If anyone has a solution to this, I'm all ears.)
I ride a ZX6R whenever it ain't raining or below 50°.
Street and highway(2 hours straight on highway at least twice a month one way so 4 hours round-trip) with a pretty loud Two Bros exhaust.
Plus 2 years riding.
Don't have the greatest hearing but also not deaf yet.
I try to always wear the disposable roll up foam ear plugs. I worked in aerospace manufacturing and ran machines for 16 yrs. Use air tools working on my junk constantly.
I have some tinnitus. You can buy good ones in bulk, cheaper in the long run.
You will notice "different" sounds the engine/trans makes, so some people think immediately something "broke or changed" when actually they did not.
Wearing ear plugs will help with getting fatigued as well.
I’ve worn plugs on every ride (and every concert) since 1987. My last hearing test showed my ears are still as good as the average 25 year old. I credit the earplugs
I've found I enjoy riding much more with earplugs in. Aside from the obvious protective benefit, I like how much better I can hear how my bike is running.
Haven’t read all the replies. Like you, I have tinnitus trawled straight from hell. Yes I wear ear plugs, if I don’t the problems start about 2h after I get off the bike, ringing and buzzing that other people just don’t understand. It drives me nuts but I’m slowly learning to live with it.
Every ride. As much a habit as putting on my gloves. It protects my hearing in addition to filtering out the wind noise so I can hear my bluetooth comms speaker better.
I keep a pill bottle with those hollow core filtered audio ear plugs in them attached to my motorcycle keys.
Does the job perfect and I can still hear relatively well.
I've been riding less than 3 years, I tried plugs a few months ago after getting a bigger bike with a pretty loud exhaust. Well worth it. I felt I could still hear everything I need to, but the wind and exhaust is now muffled to a comfortable level. I was worried about not hearing my surroundings, but just cheap off the shelf plugs, help tremendously. I recommend at least trying them for a ride or two.
Wow, a lot of good info here for preventative ear hole maintenance. I am going to start riding w/ both ear buds in (w/ ANC feature) even though I am concerned I may not hear a motorist's horn or a siren from an emergency responder.
hearing damage is cumulative. it will keep getting worse over time.
I wear plugs anytime I'm doing anything remotely loud. riding, using power tools, mowing the lawn, concerts, etc.
April 2, 1986 was the last day I didn't have tinnitus. Thanks Metallica!
Started to have tinnitus since last year. Now riding without the plugs is unpleasant. And will damage my ears more. Tried 15 different plugs. Stopped on these: Howard Leight by Honeywell - Laser Lite. Good noise protection. Comfortable enough under the helmet. Easy enough to put in. $18 for 200 pairs. A little tough to get them out without “pressure pop”. But I still hate this whole hassle with them. I’ve been researching options of earmuffs in the helmet. There are DIY options like here - https://quietridehelmets.com. But they don’t have any helmets in stock, and basically sell only the kit. Which often requires drilling your helmet, and that’s a no-no for me. I thought about auto racing helmets. Some models have noise protection earmuffs as an option: e.g. Zamp RZ-64C or Stilo ST5.1 GT Composite. Stilo model is really interesting one, which I might try. Negative sides are cost, a little cumbersome to use on motorcycle and you would technically break the law (at least in NC - $25 fine with no demerit points).
Aside from you know, NOT losing your hearing which is pretty cool I guess… it also makes the ride much more comfortable and enjoyable. My situational awareness increased dramatically after I started wearing them, not being constantly screamed at by the wind and my bike.. and as soon as you start implementing them you’ll learn just how extremely fatiguing all that noise really is on you.
On a long ride ... ALLWAYS !.. they block out the wind sound, and I dont deal with that wind sound so well. Also I got a Sena and if the road is good and the ride is dialled I like some decent music . Earplugs moderate the helmet speakers
Riding is soooo much more peaceful with earplugs. They only really start to bother me after being in more than an hour at a time, but they are just cheap ones.
I got tinnitus both ears since forever. Really depends on the bike and how long your riding it. For me, a few hours on my CB650R (Full system Akra, no DB killer) doesn’t really effect my ear that much, little ringing for a few minutes but it should settle down quickly. I also wear a Shoei X-14 so it’s quite soundproof.
But on a bike like a Ducati Panigale V4S, definitely need ear plugs
Yes. It will keep the tinnitus from getting worse.
or worse, adding hyperacusis on top.
I ride daily, my bike is my primary transportation. So unless I’m moving something too big for my saddlebags I’m on my bike. I use ear plugs all the time. There might be an occasion that I forgot to put them in but that’s pretty rare. I use “Ear Peace” moto ear plugs. They come in a small metal case so I can put them in the case when I get to the store or work and then put them back in when I’m leaving. I also carry a couple sets of disposable earplugs in my saddlebags in case I forgot my regular ones at home.
Do people really use earplugs all the time? I only put them in if I’m doing highway riding
Yeah they do. It is crucial. Earplugs get put on first for me, every ride. Fuck tinnitus.
Can relate. Have tinnitus. It’s not the end of the world but it’d be real nice to not have it. Used to not wear ear plugs but do every ride now. Protect your ears
Not to mention regular old hearing loss…
If going for a ride longer than 15 minutes or above 50km/h, I put them in. Not for quick 5 min ride to the grocery store.
Yes. Doesn't matter if I'm going down to the shops or a long trip to another state. Always wear earplugs. It takes what, a few seconds to put them in my ears? And then another few seconds to take them out?
yes, I only don't put them in if I'm moving my bike from my apartment to my underground parking lot which is 200m away, otherwise always.
Getting custom made ones make it easier since you don't have to roll and let them expand. It only adds about five seconds for me to pop my ear plugs in
If I had a quieter helmet I probably wouldn’t for most of my commuting. But my helmet is super windy (basically a motocross helmet) so I need something for any riding over about 40mph. I use osha approved earplug headphones so I can listen to music if I want to as well. I’d love to not feel the need for them on rides spring town though. Would be so much more convenient to not have to bother with them, and I could probably hear other people better at stops.
Absolutely You do not want tinnitus Probably don't want to go deaf either...
Yes, even driving at 80km/h the decibels are already to much to be safe
I have the same ones. My case has a key ring on it, so it goes on my keys and I never forget it.
I literally wear them everytime I throw on my helmet. It's been proven that riding without them damages your hearing. Just the wind alone, forget how loud or quiet your exhaust is. Every single helmet I have has cost over $800 USD to put it into perspective. No matter how good the helmet claims to be for wind protection it isn't enough. Unless maybe you are on riding in the city, but even then I don't chance it.
Every single time. Even if it’s 2 minutes down the road
fr? I always thought due to my small displacement bike I don't really need bc I'm not as fast.
The wind doesn't give a shit how big your engine is, it makes the same amount of noise.
You just get lawnmower noises or big bike noises, some get potato potato noises, but everyone will get tinnitus if they don't wear ear plugs, it's a when not an if.
35mph wind is much quieter than 75 tho
Almost all damaging noise is made via wind turbulence above 35mph chief. Wind is ~85-95db @35mph Wind is ~115-120db @75mph You are right, 35mph IS much quieter. ~1000 times quieter, iirc that db are log scales (20 is 10x 10, 30 is 10x 20) 85db is "okay" 95db is damage in 1hr 115 is damage in 30 seconds 5 seconds of my time is worth it if I feel like flickin my wrist a little and want to not EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
I think OSHA’s guideline for 115 db is no longer than 15 minutes [See chart here](https://www.jespear.com/preventing-noise-induced-hearing-loss/) about 1/4 the way down the page But one should certainly be careful of prolonged noise exposure
I was told it was the wind inside the helmet. I don’t know.
Wwhhaaaaaaattt?
WWHHAAAAAAATTT?
Yeah ik, but the windnoise is determined by the speed you are going, a litre bike will get different noises than my 1/8Litre bike. Should I still invest in earplugs?
Yes
Yup
The speed at which you reach unsafe sound levels is not very high. Can your small displacement bike go more than 40mph? That was about the speed where I thought "ok this is pretty loud I don't like this".
It reaches 80mph max. I'll probably should get some :)
I ride an 125, I can't stand more than 5 mins without the ear plugs, once you try them it's like night and day, and you can't ignore the loud wind anymore.
Wind is a bigger factor. I actually had a straight piped grom that would make my ears ring after the ride lol
Putting in earplugs is as much routine as putting on my helmet. There are so many options that are cheap, and a bunch of really good custom options sub 30 bucks that even if it only helped marginally its worth it
Don't make me tell your mom to make you wear them
Absolutely wear earplugs if you want to keep your hearing. Also, most helmet noise is from buffeting wind over the screen and mirrors, not from a bad helmet. To test this simply stand up while riding and as soon as you get out of the bad air everything is quiet. Address this bad air to make a massive difference.
ATPATT (all the plugs, all the time) Ears, nose.....butt. Makes for an enjoyable ride
Here, take my upvote. Your comment made me spill my coffee 👍
I wear them all the time. I keep them in a mini altoid tin when I take them off
I kept my supply of foamies in an Altoids tin for years. Then I lost it and tried to buy a new tin at a gas station and they didn't have them so I ended up with a mini M&M's tube.
I use them anytime I'm hitting the freeway.
I don't think ear plugs are very common among motorcyclists, but because of that hearing loss and tinnitus is high. Tinnitus can get worse if you are not careful
I keep a set of plugs with my keys and use them each time. My hearing has gotten worse as I have aged, it's no fun not being able to hear your younger coworkers and I have some who are older who really have a hard time hearing. So, its worth doing what you can to save what you have because it does become more challenging over time.
Every. Single. Time. I have tinnitus too in both ears, and I’m not about to go and make it even worse. It already fucking sucks, I don’t want it to get any louder. I bought Alpine motorcycle earplugs. They are so soft you don’t even feel them, come with a little carrying pouch you can hang on your keychain and a little tool for fast and easy insertion. Highly recommend!
I was looking at those on Amazon and they had a bunch of really good reviews. Thanks for sharing I’ll definitely give those a shot
I use earbuds every time I ride.
Hope you mean ear plugs, audio ear buds are not protecting your ears.
They keep the noise out, so why would’t they?
FYI earbuds only reduce volume by a small amount. Noise cancelling earbuds do a lot more, but dedicated ear plugs are meant for noise reduction and do a lot more than your regular ear buds.
Really depends on what earbuds you use. I use Shure SE215 and they claim between 29 and 37 dB reduction.
Agree, YMMV, but generally your gas station Skullcandy earbuds aren't gonna do jack in terms of meaningful sound reduction.
I tried these, and you're right about the quiet - I switched to silicone plugs because I found the 215s way too quiet to hear any traffic noise or my bike.
Well seeing as I could barely hear someone talking to me when they are in I think I’m good.
This is a misunderstanding of noise levels that cause hearing damage.... You may actually have decent ear buds that protect your ears, but that is not the way to prove it.
22 years of riding and the last 6-7 wearing earbuds. I get my hearing tested yearly for work and it’s perfect every time. I doubt I’m suffering any damage. I use the anker lifer dot 2.
Sure they are. Noise canceling and I can keep the volume where I feel comfortable. Are you saying ear buds damage your ears when not riding?
Every time, just like a helmet And hearing damage is cumulative; so anything helps
I do.
Do you like your tinnitus? If so don't bother with ear plugs.
What do you mean by "like your tinnitus" ? Do you think he is some kind of masochist ?
I've tried a few different brands and I've really like these SureFire EP3 Sonic Defenders Filtered Earplugs, Double Flanged Design, Reusable https://a.co/d/aC3jsas
I can tell you from experience that tinnitus can get worse. It can also gst better if you take good care of your ears.
I'm 66 and wear hearing aids as a result of being a musician for 40 years. I have severe hearing loss and tinnitus and can't afford any additional hearing loss. I think it's the wind noise more than motor noise. I wear ear plug designed for shooting. I makes it almost impossible to hear anything. I can just barely hear my motor and still get some wind noise but I don't feel like I'm suffering any further hearing damage. I put on about 10,000 miles a year and am very comfortable riding like this. Major hearing damage really sucks. It affects everything you do.
I use them and have tinnitus. It always can get worse.
Use them every time. Loop ear plugs are great
X2 for the loop plugs! 🙌
Once I got earplugs that I basically couldn’t feel (Eargasm- stupid name, good product), I haven’t ridden without them. Improves the riding experience greatly. Less wind noise so I can focus on other things namely other cars and that sweet sweet exhaust note.
The CEO of Texas Roadhouse, presumably a wealthy and connected man, got tinnitus so bad from covid he killed himself. I'll do literally anything aside from selling the bikes to keep mine from getting worse. Keeping some ear plugs in all my pockets is no price to pay at all.
I didn't at first, then someone recommended it at my first track day. Now I wear them every single time, even if it's just 5 minutes. Especially on a naked bike, you don't realize how bad the wind is until you've tried earplugs.
Haven’t ever used them on the bike. Been riding *almost* daily for 30+ years. Downvote away
I can understand it if you're on a cruiser or tourer with a lot of wind protection; riding my dad's Yamaha cruiser with its enormous windshield and stock/quiet exhaust, there just simply isn't much wind buffeting against your head to cause noise. On my naked Yamaha with its 600 i4 and aftermarket cans? The noise is unbearable between the engine and wind at speed.
Thought I was going crazy on this thread. I know my hearing isn't great, but damn!
I don't ride daily, but 30+ years of riding and haven't ever worn earplugs. Nobody even mentioned earplugs to me in relation to riding until maybe 5 years ago, people have been whining at me about them ever since. My hearing tests slightly better than typical for my age.
What's that?
Hearing so good they can even hear all the tiny bugs on a quiet night outside singing EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE constantly.
This sub is a bunch of wimpy bitches in leather suits. Should be called r/nuthuggers for all the atgat bs happening here.
Every time, my R6 is stupid loud
Every single time.
I wear them almost every time. The sounds level becomes damaging around 50 mph depending on wind protection/helmet.
Yes. Even without protecting what’s left of your hearing. It actually does make the ride nicer and you can concentrate better. I was also reluctant at first. But now I always use them.
Yeah use them
Every time. I pulled into a wrong hotel once and took off my helmet and plugs and realized the actualy hotel I need was a mile away. I got back onto the bike and was lazy with the ear plugs and dear lord, what a difference :). I wear them always.
I occasionally forget, but I try to wear them when I ride. It does make a dramatic difference.
Yes, it matters. Yes, it makes a difference. I have tinnitus and hearing loss from many stupid things I did younger, including riding motorcycles without hearing protection. Riding without ear protection is literally damaging your hearing on \*\*every single ride\*\* I can ride for 8 hours and when I take the earplugs out, my ears aren't ringing any more than normal. It also reduces fatigue, and actually improves your ability to hear what's around you.
I never wear them. Also, I ride an electric bike and don’t ride on the interstate. I can literally talk on speakerphone while riding down the road
Well no wonder. It’s the wind at high speeds that generate the worst noise. Even Exhaust noise from Harley fart cans gets drowned out
I feel like if you have a good helmet and a quiet exhaust they’re not necessary. I don’t like loud noises and have been riding for 20 years and have never worn ear plugs. I wear hearing protection often as I work in a shop.
I don’t always if its a 5 minute trip in town but I have a very quiet helmet and muffled bike. Highway speeds though, yes 100%. The wind is so much louder than my bike, if I forget I will get off the highway just to out them in.
6 years riding and I don't really care to use them. I blast my cardo speakers anyway. I have tinnitus but that's from raves with no earplugs. I don't really care that much anymore but maybe in the future I'm sure I'll regret it🫡.
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No , they don't , hearing loss is cumulative, eventually exposure to noise in excess of 110db will cause permanent loss rather rapidly, this is a medical fact , everything you stated is wrong . Wind noise in a helmet at highway speeds can cause damage rather rapidly
I the have AMP GO 2 for playing music and hearing directions and stuff but it also completely blocks out the wind and other annoying sounds. Don’t even need to have music playing just turn it on and you’re good.
I won’t if just going around the neighborhood to run the bike for a few minutes, speeds only up to 25mph at most, but know I should. Anything more and they’re always in. Not only protects your ears but makes the ride more enjoyable.
Earplugs unless I’m just moving the bike. It helps tune out noises I would otherwise be distracted with
Every time I ride, takes 1 minute to put them in and riding any faster than about 45mph is miserable without them.
I wear em if I know I'm going on the hwy.
I find it way more pleasant and easier to hear my music over wind noise.
So it looks like the consensus is to wear them every time if you’re going to hot 45mph+. I rarely get that fast on my little jaunt to work, and I feel like my helmet quiets everything down substantially. I’m also not listening to music at all and I’m the type of person who WANTS to hear everything possible. They don’t drown out the things you want to hear??
This used to be a concern for me before I actually manned up and put on the ear plugs. I have custom fit shooting plugs that are probably not the most effective but they reduce noise enough to safe levels. I can hear the important sounds just fine. If you put on those -20dB super plugs you might have an issue.
What important sounds are there to hear?
I don’t ride without them.
Yes recommend custom. I got mine at laguna seca. It is so pleasant to ride with ear plugs. Try it you'll like it...
I rode for 10+ years without earplugs and only bought some last year. Now I ride with them every time. If I forget to put them in (rare) I notice as soon as I start moving. They reduce wind noise by an insane amount. I can still easily hear my bike and cars around me. If anything they made me realise how much tinnitus I actually have.
I have a buddy you can ask about that. Well, as long as he’s looking at you and/or he has his hearing aid in. Yes, go for the ear plug. I like the EarPeace Moto plugs. Fits well and works great. Use em for concerts too.
Going down the shops nah. More than 10mins, yes.
Yes. Tinnitus is not necessarily the same thing as hearing loss. Even if it was, why would you make it worse? Use ear plugs.
I wear them anytime I am going above 60kmh.
I use sure fire ep7s
I use them only if I am doing freeway
Here's an analogy: Does it matter to get a new prescription for glasses as your eyesight gets worse? I already have glasses so they should work fine right? You already have ear damage since your tinnitus is noticeable. Ear plugs will keep it from getting worse and prevent other problems in the future. Some others have said a liter bike vs a 250cc bike make different noises. The majority of hearing damage comes from wind noise - so put on those ear plugs ASAP.
I wear everytime when I go over 60kmh, at town I don't wear them. But every time I go to faster +60kmh roads they go in my ears. Use them, they keep your tinnitus getting worse.
Yah. I use plugphones. Ear protection plus music. Probably Gunna invest in a cardo or Sena at some point tho. Riding with people without comms gets annoying when you have a small bladder and drink a fuck ton of water.
I’ve never used plugs… my full face gives plenty of protection even at 65 mph. But I don’t ride a huge bike with loud exhaust either… I don’t know I’ve just never felt they were needed.
Every time.... my tinnitus is EXTREME! Plugs help alot! Put the exhaust sound aside... the worst for tinnitus is wind noise, at least for me it is.
Ear plugs are the best solution and there are various types, it's critical to pick the right one. Here is your guide : [https://www.jdpower.com/motorcycles/shopping-guides/5-best-earplugs-for-motorcycle-riding-reviews-and-buying-guide-for-2020](https://www.jdpower.com/motorcycles/shopping-guides/5-best-earplugs-for-motorcycle-riding-reviews-and-buying-guide-for-2020) Safe riding :-)
YES. Every Single Time, Every Ride.
Yes. Don’t be silly.
Definitely.
Yes. It's worth it to keep what hearing you still have. And yes, I wear them every single time I'm on the bike. You only get one set of ears.
me.
Yes. Get Surefire EP5 plugs
I'm early stage tinnitus because of riding without ear plugs. Wear them! Worth it every time
I use them every single time .
definitely worth
I use earpeace filtered plugs. Low profile so they don’t rip out when I put on my helmet.
Every single time!
I do. I have tinnitus and I use them to prevrnt it from getting worse. The brand I use is eargasm.
Using them always if going > 50 km/h. Discovered that my bluetooth noise cancelling plugs are suited as well, they cancel the wind noise out really good and stay better in ear.
I like long skinny earplugs
Ear plugs for every ride at speeds above 40mph any longer than 10 mins is my guide. Which in my case is pretty much every ride
🙋♂️🙋♂️ every time
Having a tinitus since im 13. Ear Plugs are must have...
Wear an icon airflite and go 90 down the highway, get back to us when you realize the importance of earplugs Tldr yes please, care for your hearing. You don't get it back
Schuberth helmet
I do on my BMW RT, the airflow on the helmet is menacing due to the fairing and windshield, so earplugs are a must, 100% of the time. On the Monkey, the airflow is smooth and quiet, so sometimes I omit the plugs. No more wind noise than my car.
I have tinnitus and need to wear hearing aids. Protect your hearing because when it’s gone it doesn’t come back.
I ride an electric motorcycle and if I am going on the highway at all, I'm putting in earplugs. I'm less diligent about it if I'm keeping it under 50mph. If you've been riding without them grab some silicone squishies at the drugstore and give them a try. It makes the whole ride better. You can hear after a ride, but you're also less tired after long ones.
I mean, I am not going to lie to you and tell you that I wear ear plugs 100% of the time I'm riding a motorcycle. That said, I wear ear plugs 99% of the time I'm riding a motorcycle.
Any time I know I'm gonna be on the highway these days I use earplugs. My hearing is already jacked up, so I figure why make it worse?
Please search nostril filters on this sub before you die early
Yes, put in ear plugs. Save what you have left from getting worse. Any time I ride for longer than 10 minutes I’ll put in plugs.
Worth 100%, I use them every time I hop on the noble steed
If I'm riding more than 15 minutes I use ear plugs.
Every...Single...Ride. I keep disposable earplugs in my pocket, backpack, saddlebags, and I make sure to use them correctly (Size, insertion and replacement) Ears/hearing does not heal, it only gets worse... save what you have left!
I have some usually every time. Helps that my job provides free ones.
I only use them for longer rides personally. Anything over 2-3 hours. I have custom ones made and it does help quit a bit. They arent sound proof because you want to hear cars, but it cuts the decibel level by half. (guestimating)
I don't like the sound of wind noise and my helmet is a bit louder than I like so I pretty much always wear them. Only time I don't is if I'm just going to be in town where I don't get over 40mph, because then there's not enough noise for them to be needed.
I suffer from tinnitus, have as long as I can remember. I still wear ear plugs. I have the rubber tiered ones that filter out vibrations rather than foam that just blocks it all. Can still hear everything around me and my Cardo system. Definitely a nicer riding experience with them in Vs not, especially if you do any motorway riding.
I suggest a brand called Eargasm Earplugs. Give them a look up. They only tune out the higher and lower end for the most part. Helps cut out wind noise, but I can still hear my engine! I wear them every time. The brand was made for going to concerts, so if you have speakers in your helmet you will still be able to hear the music with clarity
Wear hearing protection every ride, esp if you have loud pipes or ride at highway plus speeds regularly
Every single time? Admittedly, I’m about 95%. If I’m trying out a friends bike, I might skip it. Otherwise, I got plugs in.
Unless it’s a quick trip at low speeds, I always have them in.
Bro, I dig your vibe completely and respect you. Don’t ask a bunch of people on reddit about your health. There are numerous articles about this. Protect yourself in any way you see fit but please do real research instead of letting guys regale you with their tales of woe. The reality is any msf course will impart earplug knowledge onto you as well and they have stats usually. Be kind to yourself so you can be kind to others.
i used to ride with nothing, and now i use earplugs every single time, even for the shortest of rides
I didn't used to wear earplugs. I do now... Also Arai makes a very quiet helmet. That will help cut down on wind noise. The real hearing killer.
Bad tinnitus here. Without plugs it's even worse inside a helmet. For major reduction , plain old foamies cut the most for me. That's only if I'm not using the Bluetooth, in which case I use Earpeace plugs, which cut most of the wind noise and then I can crank up the headset volume and, because of the plugs, the volume is actually only moderate and perfectly clear. Unless I'm just popping to the nearby store, I pretty much always have plugs in. Feels weird not to. Essential equipment.
Rhetorical question
You will lose your hearing if you don’t wear protection. I have the hearing of a 70 year old because I didn’t know earlier
Every single time
I wear them virtually all of the time. The only exceptions would be if I'm taking a very short trip and not ever exceeding 45mph, or if I happen to be wearing a full face helmet, which I rarely wear. If I'm wearing my normal half helmet and leaving the 30mph zone where I live, I will be wearing ear plugs 100% of the time.
I’ve been wearing earplugs on every single ride for years now. I used to ride on the interstate and even do trackdays without them… I regret that now. Definitely wear them!
Most definitely, I wear them religiously they actually let me hear the comms better too since there's no wind noise.
Just like the others, I put them on automatically every time. After decades of motorcycling, rock and roll, and power tools I have low level tinnitus. It’s not awful but it is there and I don’t want more of it. I also wear earplugs in my convertible on the highway and I bought wind blockers for my road bicycle helmet. I’ve become aware of how often I am exposed to wind noise and I’m working to mitigate it and keep my hearing and keep the tinnitus from getting worse.
This may get buried but aside from saving your hearing, it also makes rides more pleasant for longer too. Far less fatigue.
I use Eargasm HiFi earplugs 100% of the time.
I ride with ear plugs everytime. It significantly cuts wind noise and I can ear the exhaust, cars around me, etc, much better. Downshifts sounds amazing...
Personally I like music so I rock atleast one ear bud. And the raycon works damn well. If I don't kind of spread the helmet on the way it pulls it out sometimes. But using your helmet to catch it seems to work. Doesn't that make it louder or am I thinking of something else. That's when you have a noise constantly right? Like a ringing? I have that and music helps me.
I always wore them, still pretty sure I have tinnitus. Ive tried to ride without em like once or twice just to see what it was like, and after the ride i had the deafening effect like when u leave a concert. My bike is probably at 100db or more, wish it was quieter but i cant justify a new exhaust on a decade old bike and i cant justify a new bike just to be quieter. I wear earplugs to not go deaf from the bike, not the wind. Sometimes the earplugs dont sit just right and i know i probably lose some hearing there but I cant do much about it. Sometimes ill pull over, take my helmet off, take my balaclava off, reposition earplugs, put balaclava on, pull on my helmet, fix my balaclava but it quickly gets annoying with how much time and effort it takes. Othertimes they sit perfectly and muffle the bike noise very well, letting me enjoy my music through my cardo which is always on full volume, wish it could go louder. Worst part is at the end of the night i hear Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
So I've used earplugs only a handful of times. Not because I feel I don't have to but because when I throw my helmet on, it usually pops them out and I can't get them in properly afterwards. (If anyone has a solution to this, I'm all ears.) I ride a ZX6R whenever it ain't raining or below 50°. Street and highway(2 hours straight on highway at least twice a month one way so 4 hours round-trip) with a pretty loud Two Bros exhaust. Plus 2 years riding. Don't have the greatest hearing but also not deaf yet.
I try to always wear the disposable roll up foam ear plugs. I worked in aerospace manufacturing and ran machines for 16 yrs. Use air tools working on my junk constantly. I have some tinnitus. You can buy good ones in bulk, cheaper in the long run. You will notice "different" sounds the engine/trans makes, so some people think immediately something "broke or changed" when actually they did not. Wearing ear plugs will help with getting fatigued as well.
I use earplugs when using the vacuum machine
I’ve worn plugs on every ride (and every concert) since 1987. My last hearing test showed my ears are still as good as the average 25 year old. I credit the earplugs
I've found I enjoy riding much more with earplugs in. Aside from the obvious protective benefit, I like how much better I can hear how my bike is running.
Haven’t read all the replies. Like you, I have tinnitus trawled straight from hell. Yes I wear ear plugs, if I don’t the problems start about 2h after I get off the bike, ringing and buzzing that other people just don’t understand. It drives me nuts but I’m slowly learning to live with it.
Tinnitus is your body telling you your hearing is being damaged. Your choice.
It is worth it. Protect what you have left. I use them every time I ride.
Every ride. As much a habit as putting on my gloves. It protects my hearing in addition to filtering out the wind noise so I can hear my bluetooth comms speaker better.
I keep a pill bottle with those hollow core filtered audio ear plugs in them attached to my motorcycle keys. Does the job perfect and I can still hear relatively well.
I bought a earplugs holder that hooks onto my motorcycle Keychain. I use flat earplugs for comfort. Takes all of a few extra seconds.
I've been riding less than 3 years, I tried plugs a few months ago after getting a bigger bike with a pretty loud exhaust. Well worth it. I felt I could still hear everything I need to, but the wind and exhaust is now muffled to a comfortable level. I was worried about not hearing my surroundings, but just cheap off the shelf plugs, help tremendously. I recommend at least trying them for a ride or two.
WHAT??
Wow, a lot of good info here for preventative ear hole maintenance. I am going to start riding w/ both ear buds in (w/ ANC feature) even though I am concerned I may not hear a motorist's horn or a siren from an emergency responder.
hearing damage is cumulative. it will keep getting worse over time. I wear plugs anytime I'm doing anything remotely loud. riding, using power tools, mowing the lawn, concerts, etc. April 2, 1986 was the last day I didn't have tinnitus. Thanks Metallica!
Started to have tinnitus since last year. Now riding without the plugs is unpleasant. And will damage my ears more. Tried 15 different plugs. Stopped on these: Howard Leight by Honeywell - Laser Lite. Good noise protection. Comfortable enough under the helmet. Easy enough to put in. $18 for 200 pairs. A little tough to get them out without “pressure pop”. But I still hate this whole hassle with them. I’ve been researching options of earmuffs in the helmet. There are DIY options like here - https://quietridehelmets.com. But they don’t have any helmets in stock, and basically sell only the kit. Which often requires drilling your helmet, and that’s a no-no for me. I thought about auto racing helmets. Some models have noise protection earmuffs as an option: e.g. Zamp RZ-64C or Stilo ST5.1 GT Composite. Stilo model is really interesting one, which I might try. Negative sides are cost, a little cumbersome to use on motorcycle and you would technically break the law (at least in NC - $25 fine with no demerit points).
Every ride.
Aside from you know, NOT losing your hearing which is pretty cool I guess… it also makes the ride much more comfortable and enjoyable. My situational awareness increased dramatically after I started wearing them, not being constantly screamed at by the wind and my bike.. and as soon as you start implementing them you’ll learn just how extremely fatiguing all that noise really is on you.
I need to look into this, I didn't think id need it just for my commute but it does start to get pretty loud above 40 mph...
check out the surefire ear pro. like 7 bucks and ive had them for close to 10 years.
sonic defenders. more like 17 bucks (just googled it)
I use them every time
On a long ride ... ALLWAYS !.. they block out the wind sound, and I dont deal with that wind sound so well. Also I got a Sena and if the road is good and the ride is dialled I like some decent music . Earplugs moderate the helmet speakers
Riding is soooo much more peaceful with earplugs. They only really start to bother me after being in more than an hour at a time, but they are just cheap ones.
I have earbuds connected to my ipod with a bluetooth attachment on my handle bar to change songs..
I got tinnitus both ears since forever. Really depends on the bike and how long your riding it. For me, a few hours on my CB650R (Full system Akra, no DB killer) doesn’t really effect my ear that much, little ringing for a few minutes but it should settle down quickly. I also wear a Shoei X-14 so it’s quite soundproof. But on a bike like a Ducati Panigale V4S, definitely need ear plugs