Motorcycle Gear Shops in London: A Female Rider’s Real Experience
Reviews | Motorcycle Gear Shops
How do some of London’s most popular motorcycle gear shops actually perform when it comes to riding gear- and specifically, women’s riding gear?
As a female rider, that’s not always straightforward. Most gear is either cut for men or designed for women with compromises in protection, fit, or both.
Since I was already in the UK for a personal trip, I decided to visit three well-known motorcycle gear shops to see what was actually available, not just online, but in-store.
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Contents
The Famous one
The Bike Shed
Having heard many good things about The Bike Shed over the years, this was one of the motorcycle shops I was most looking forward to visiting in London.
Set in Shoreditch, The Bike Shed combines a café, restaurant, barbershop, event space, and a curated motorcycle gear store all in one venue. It has a strong community feel with a polished but relaxed, creative atmosphere. It feels less like a shop and more like a central hub for motorcycle culture.
The gear selection leans toward the premium side, with brands like Revit, Pando Moto, Knox, and MotoGirl.
My experience
Before arriving, I emailed ahead to check stock and received a helpful, prompt reply, which already set a positive tone before I even visited.
In-store, I was treated well. No awkwardness, no condescension, just normal, respectful interaction, and space to browse without pressure.
What I looked at (and bought)
I initially tried MotoGirl leggings, which I’d heard a lot about. They’re Kevlar-lined and very well known in the female riding community. However, for my riding in Thailand, I found them too warm for hot climates.
I also looked at a lightweight Knox jacket, but decided against it as I wanted something with more protection for the price.
In the end, I bought: Pando Moto Kusari Black Riding Jeans
The jeans stood out immediately. Comfortable, practical, and a good balance between protection and everyday wear. (I actually also bought an MX shirt, which I regretted buying later. Only because I really do not wear it).
Verdict: The Bike Shed
Range
Moderate
Price
£££
Rating
9 /10
The women’s gear range wasn’t large, but they did stock key female-focused brands, which made it workable. Pricing is on the premium side, but expected for the type of venue and curation. Service and atmosphere were excellent overall. There was a bit of a “boys club” feel though, which is understandable given the demographic, but it didn’t affect the service. Overall, it was a very positive experience.
The Retro-Themed One
Urban Rider
Urban Rider is a well-known motorcycle gear shop located on New Kings Road in Fulham, London. It’s positioned as a high-end, curated retailer, and also stocks a lot of the same brands you’ll find online and in other premium stores.
Urban Rider is a smaller, more focused gear store compared to The Bike Shed. While their online presence shows a wide range of stock, the physical shop itself is quite compact.
The selection leans toward premium and heritage-style motorcycle gear, with a strong focus on heavier, more traditional riding equipment.
Women’s gear felt lacking. It was rather disheartening, in truth.
My experience
This visit felt noticeably different from The Bike Shed.
When I entered, I was greeted politely, but the interaction felt minimal. I was mostly left to browse on my own, and when I asked about women’s gear, I was directed to a section without much further engagement.
The overall atmosphere felt less welcoming, particularly when compared to the other shops. I felt like I was not considered, and had a distinct feeling that if a man had walked in instead of me, possibly he would have been catered to?
What I looked at (and bought)
There wasn’t a strong women’s selection available at the time, so I focused on the items I already knew I needed.
In the end, I bought: Knox Micro-Lock Back Protector & Rokker Hip Protectors
These were practical purchases rather than exploratory ones. More about filling gaps in my gear setup than finding new pieces.
Verdict: Urban Rider
Range
Very Limited
Price
£££
Rating
4 /10
Urban Rider carries strong brands and quality products, but the in-store experience felt less engaging compared to other shops and the lack of gear for women was disappointing.
More Budget-Friendly One
Infinity Motorcycles
Infinity Motorcycles is a more budget-friendly multi-branch motorcycle retailer with several locations across London. I visited their Great Portland Street store, which is fairly central and easy to access.
The Great Portland Street store is relatively small but split over two levels. The upper floor is mainly helmets and accessories, while riding gear and clothing are located downstairs.
Compared to the other two shops, Infinity feels more functional and less curated, but in a way that makes it more accessible.
The women’s gear section is better represented here than expected, with mainstream brands available, including items like MotoGirl leggings and other popular entry-to-mid range riding gear, and the pricing is generally more approachable compared to premium retailers like The Bike Shed and Urban Rider.
My experience
The staff were polite and helpful without being intrusive. I was greeted and asked if I needed assistance, but also given space to browse — which felt like a good balance.
The overall atmosphere was more practical than premium. Less “lifestyle destination,” more “get what you need and go,” which has its own value.
What I looked at (and bought)
I didn’t make any major gear purchases here, as I was mainly comparing availability rather than actively shopping for clothing. I did spot some Rok Straps, though, which I decided to purchase. Not exciting, but genuinely useful and something I needed at the time.
In the end, I bought: Rok Straps
These really are extremely useful straps!
Verdict: Infinity Motorcycles
Range
Medium
Price
££ – £££
Rating
7 /10
Infinity Motorcycles is the most practical of the three shops. It doesn’t have the curated atmosphere of The Bike Shed or the premium feel of Urban Rider, but it offers better accessibility and more approachable pricing.
It’s a solid option if you already know what you need or are looking for functional gear without the premium experience.
In Closing
My Experience of London Bike Stores
What I expected to be a simple trip to find a good pair of riding pants turned into something a bit more interesting- a real comparison of how different motorcycle gear shops in London feel, especially as a female rider.
Each shop had its own strengths.
The Bike Shed stood out for its atmosphere, service, and overall experience. It felt like a place where riders are genuinely part of the space, not just customers passing through.
Urban Rider offered high-quality gear, but the experience felt more transactional and less welcoming for browsing — especially when looking for women’s options.
Infinity Motorcycles was the most practical and accessible, with a better-than-expected range of women’s gear, even if the overall experience was more functional than inspiring.
What became clear is that women’s motorcycle gear is improving, but it’s still inconsistent. Some shops are making real effort, while others still feel like female riders are an afterthought in the layout and selection.
For me, this wasn’t just about finding riding pants – it was a reminder that gear shopping is still very different depending on where you go, who you are, and what you’re looking for.
Thoughts about this summary? Leave a comment. I’d be interested to read your thoughts.
“I imagine Australia having more hot weather gear options, but unsure if they have a decent range for women or not.”
As with the general industry, women’s options are still a smaller percentage of general, but Australia’s bike clothing selection is pretty fantastic, even for ladies. I’d suggest Gold Coast/Brisbane and Sydney (blergh) for shopping around.
Australia has seen a huge uptick in women coming to motorcycles, which is so awesome! I really wish the market would provide equal stocking for women, but as you say it is getting better.
As always, great write up!
Great article, and you were correct in your analysis of the type of product stocked for use in Thailand. Too heavy, uncomfortable and sold for “protection”, not good design. Next time try to take a look at http://motolegends.com.. about 45 kms south west of the capital
Best & Cordially
Hi Derek. Thank you for the comment.
I do get the feeling that there are better selections outside of the capital in general, and Motolegends looks like a great shop to check out. Thanks for the recommendation.
I had such a short time (with commitments in central London) that getting out to view other places wasn’t really possible.
Maybe I will get an opportunity next time as would like to see this store.
As you also mentioned though, the UK range in general just isn’t suitable for the Thailand market. However boots and gloves and general accessories (and armour etc), is still much better value than Thailand. So great for those items.
A new helmet is on the horizon and needing to be replaced soon, but I love my Shoei so much that it’s hard to say goodbye to it. Plus the cost of replacing gear certainly mounts up! >.< Appreciate the feedback. My best!