How did you measure the dB level while you were riding? Reason I ask is 100dB =
- motorcycle
- ATV
- snowmobile
- tractor
- car horn 15' away
- jackhammer
That must have been an extremely noisy area you rode in, and a great app or measuring device that can be used while riding 
Originally Posted by
greatbasin
Then you'll want to protect it when the noise level is above safe or you can lose it permanently. If the ride is quiet, then there really is no need for protection. If the noise level on the ride is excessive, with excessive being defined by a time-weighted-average, then hearing protection is necessary. This can happen as a result of wind noise at certain speeds or in certain conditions, with motor vehicle tire noise, with reflected noise in urban environments, and with any other loud noise.
I live and ride in a mostly rural area where my rides are quiet, but I can tell you if I commuted across the Golden Gate Bridge everyday, I would absolutely wear hearing protection. I was riding it on a tour last week and it's over 100 dB out there. It is not safer without hearing protection.
I don't trim my sideburns, so I have natural cat ears.