Make sure you're properly fitted for your helmet. It should be noticeably snug.
I wear plugs when riding alone and have done so for decades. When riding with my spouse we use helmet to helmet communicators and I forgo the ear plugs. The ability to talk to the other motorcyclist more than compensates for the increased noise level.
The inflight noise level of a commercial jet is around 80dB. A turboprop is in the 90+dB. A NYC subway platform is 95dB and 110db when a train arrives. A car at highway speeds in the 70-75db range. A convertible car at highway speeds is close to 90dB. Gunshots typically measure over 150db. Crowd noise at an NFL game averages 95-105dB. In short, there are any number of activities that can damage your hearing. As a defense you could live in and never leave a cork lined room, or you could practice some common sense precautions.
I wear plugs when riding alone and have done so for decades. When riding with my spouse we use helmet to helmet communicators and I forgo the ear plugs. The ability to talk to the other motorcyclist more than compensates for the increased noise level.
The inflight noise level of a commercial jet is around 80dB. A turboprop is in the 90+dB. A NYC subway platform is 95dB and 110db when a train arrives. A car at highway speeds in the 70-75db range. A convertible car at highway speeds is close to 90dB. Gunshots typically measure over 150db. Crowd noise at an NFL game averages 95-105dB. In short, there are any number of activities that can damage your hearing. As a defense you could live in and never leave a cork lined room, or you could practice some common sense precautions.