Whether you like riding a motorcycle for the adrenaline rush, the sense of community or the easy parking, one thing’s for certain: motorcycles are loud. Let’s take a look at how motorcycle riding can damage your hearing and how you can safeguard your hearing for the long run.
How Motorcycles Can Damage Hearing
There are two main types of motorcycle noise:
- Mechanical. Mechanical noise refers to any sound generated by the bike itself. This could include the roaring of the engine, the horn or an extra loud muffler.
- Wind. A 2003 study measured wind noise near the helmets of motorcycle riders at 90 decibels (dB)—five decibels above the threshold for hearing damage. The noise level rose linearly as the speed increased, reaching upwards of 110 dB.
You don’t have to drive for hours for hearing damage to occur. Even a short ride on a Prescott highway could lead to hearing loss. That’s why it’s so crucial to protect your hearing every time you hit the road.
Hearing Protection for Motorcyclists
There are a few ways you can protect your hearing on a motorcycle:
- Wear a noise-blocking helmet. Wearing a helmet is required by law and essential to protecting you in the event of a crash. But some helmets come with a little extra protection. Look for helmets that advertise wind noise reduction.
- Wear automotive earplugs. There are several types of motorcycle earplugs. Some are Bluetooth®-enabled and cut noise while alerting you to safety information, and others are standard filtered earplugs that dampen noise without sacrificing sound quality—similar to the ones used by musicians. Take a look at your different options and find the best earplugs for your needs.
- Slow down. Driving fast may feel more fun, but it’s also louder than casual rides. Slowing down will lower your risk of crashing and protect your ears in the long run.
Your hearing is an essential part of how you communicate with the world. If you ride a motorcycle regularly or notice symptoms like ringing in the ears or muffled voices, schedule a hearing test. We can identify any potential hearing loss and get you started on the best treatment path. Contact Prescott Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy today to make your appointment.