While most people decide to pack up their motorcycles as soon as the temperature drops and frost makes a comeback, some good reasons that a person might end up riding their bike during the coldest months are varied. For some, it’s commuting reasons and need to bike to work. Others are steadfast riders who simply can’t quite yet bear the thought of putting their bike away for the winter. 

If you plan on riding your motorcycle in cold weather, there are a few things you should know.

Clothing

One of the most important preparations you can make for riding during the winter is to pick the right riding gear. If your arms, feet and hands are frozen cold, you’ll have a much harder time riding.

A huge range of textiles and outfits are available, but ensuring a proper fit is just as important as the weather and crash protection qualities. Choose layers that are not too tight and not too loose and that the arm and leg length is just right when you are sitting on the bike.

When riding in winter temperatures below the freezing mark, you will want to consider investing in heated gear or grips.

Riding on Snow and Ice

Riding on snow or ice greatly reduces the amount of traction you have. For this reason you must give yourself much more time to make any move. Whether you need to slow down or speed up, it’s imperative to take your time and go much slower than you think is necessary.

Keep Your Eye on the Road (Even More than Usual)

Watch for salt. Salt on the roads can be as bad for traction as ice itself.

Watch for cracks in the road. Your favorite roads might have developed some new cracks thanks to plow trucks and/or the changing temperatures.

Watch for ice. Avoid anything that even remotely looks like ice.

Tires and Tire Pressure

Maintaining proper PSI on a motorcycle is a good practice no matter what time of year it is. If you’re going to be riding in the winter, keeping up with the tire pressure is absolutely vital.

Believe it or not – some motorcycle winter tires are designed specifically for cold weather riding. Summer tires won’t offer the same grip in low temperature conditions.

Eat and Hydrate

It is very important to stay on top of your health whenever you ride, but especially in cold temperatures. Failing to eat before you ride will cause your body to have a significantly harder time keeping its temperature up. Because riding is a physical activity, it’s extremely important to stay hydrated, too.

At Hupy and Abraham, we want you to remember that when you are riding a motorcycle during winter, you can expect that it will be challenging. Help keep the roads safe and save a life! To request your FREE “Watch for Motorcycles” bumper sticker, CLICK HERE!

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, please contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Hupy and Abraham today for a free consultation. Call 800-800-5678.