Why do some people wear earplugs? Is it just to protect from the wind, bugs,etc?

 

Mostly wind noise with the half helmets.

Peace.

 

Gotchya. Dumb question. Thought so.

 

I wear them because I'm already hard of hearing and don't want it to get any worse. Hearing damage is cumulative and even moderately loud noise over an extended period will damage your hearing. I can tolerate the noise even at 70 mph, but I know it's bad for my ears.

Here's something to consider: Tinnitus often goes along with hearing loss. You can't imagine how much I wish my ears didn't ring constantly. Drives me crazy sometimes.

 

Besides the above there's the fact that noise over a long period of time causes fatigue. Might not show up on a ride to the store but touring it will.

 

hearing loss is painful i know the feeling

 

Optional depending on who's riding bitch!

 

Chrome ear plugs look cool!

 

I know what you mean. My tinnitus is not too bad yet,but the ringing is there all the time.

 

Myself, for wind noise.