3 warnings from Mónica López about young people without equipment before the Xabarín Raid

Protection is the only real barrier against a fall: wearing gear saves skin and bones. In summer many motorcyclists let their guard down and Mónica López from the Terapia Motor club denounces this ahead of the Xabarín Raid.

Short rides also hurt. She recalls that even when going shopping, the lack of gear leaves skin exposed; the route on September 26 in Baralla (Lugo) puts this issue on the table (source: Editorial team, 09/04/2026).

Why the debate about gear is a concern now

For the local reader it matters because heat does not eliminate risk. Urban rides and short outings have the same accident probability as long rides; this means the decision not to wear gear affects both the neighbor on the N-340 and those who will participate in the Xabarín Raid.

What does this mean for my safety?

It means less margin of survival in a fall. Once on the ground, the difference between wearing good gear and going in short clothes is often the difference between a fracture or a superficial wound.

Why should I be concerned now?

Because the warm season is already underway and social pressure (according to testimonies collected by the Editorial team) pushes many young people to take risks to appear prestigious within the group.

Most common errors and who makes them

It is important to detect who takes risks and why. Mónica López describes the profile: young motorcyclists who do not ride year-round and who, due to ignorance or social pressure, leave parts of the body exposed.

What errors do we see most frequently?

Short pants, t-shirts, and unprotected shoes. According to Mónica’s testimony, this is "the big foolishness" she observes when people are not accustomed to riding motorcycles.

Who tends to take these risks?

Mainly young people and those not used to motorcycles. Group pressure and the feeling that an hour’s ride does not involve danger distort the perception of risk.

How to change habits without giving up summer

The issue is not wearing more clothes, but the right ones. There are summer gear options that offer ventilation and protection and reduce thermal discomfort without exposing the skin.

What does Mónica López recommend?

She recommends full suits or specific summer pieces with integrated protections. She argues that if you get a knock, it is better to end up with bruises than lose skin; this message comes directly from the Terapia Motor club.

Are there new regulations affecting this?

One item to consider is the reflective vest. The image on the cover reminds that the vest will be mandatory starting in October (according to information gathered in the original piece), which makes small safety investments worth reconsidering.

How to choose summer gear without making mistakes?

Look for breathable materials with certified protections. Prioritize reinforcements at elbows, knees, and hips, and consider technical leather or CE-protected fabrics designed for heat.

How to convince young people in the group?

Social pressure is countered with example and practical information. Organize rides where full gear is the rule and share real cases (testimonies, local figures) to make it tangible.

Short note: experience at the handlebar does not forgive mistakes; what seems like an anecdote today can be an accident tomorrow.

Mónica López (initiator of the Xabarín Raid) and the “specialists” mentioned by the Editorial team (09/04/2026) would agree: protection saves flesh and recovery time. If you ride, dress as if the road were a bet you want to win.

The reality is that the combination of information, example, and accessible gear can change habits. Wearing the right suit, choosing certified summer pieces, and not giving in to peer pressure are tangible steps to reduce injuries; Mónica López, the Terapia Motor club, and collected testimonies insist on this ahead of the Xabarín Raid in Baralla (Lugo).