Cold Weather Motorcycle Riding Tips
The temperature’s starting to drop, but the roads aren’t necessarily getting worse. A lot of motorcycle enthusiasts are going to continue to use their bikes through the winter, just like you, but if you’re not prepared for the colder weather, then you’re in for a real shock. That’s why we here at Biggs Harley-Davidson have provided you with some cold weather riding tips, so you can get ready for the colder days ahead. Check them out and let us know if there are any additional concerns we can help you with by stopping by our location in San Marcos, California. We’re the premier Harley-Davidson® dealer for all riders from San Diego and Oceanside.
Wearing the Right Gear
The first line of defense against the cold is what you wear. There are a couple of issues your riding gear should tackle, the most important of which should be safety. We’ve talked about safety gear more than once on this blog, but just as a refresher, here are some of the most important pieces of safety equipment that should be on your body:
- Helmet
- Face protection
- Durable long-sleeve top
- Durable pants
- Riding boots
- Gloves (optional, but helpful)
Once you’ve got all your safety bases covered, it’s time to move on to the second priority: staying warm. This isn’t just about comfort. It’ll be easier to focus and maintain control when you’re not freezing. That’s why you’ll want to combat this issue by wearing layers. Layers help keep you insulated and they make it easy to cool off if you start to get too hot. How many layers or how thick they are will depend on the weather. Keep in mind that once you get going, the wind chill will make it seem much colder than it actually is.
Check Your Tires
Fluctuating temperatures can affect tire pressure. Not by a lot, but it might be enough that you’ll want to prepare to make some adjustments before heading out for the day. Generally speaking, for every 10-degree drop in temperature, you’ll also lose about one or two psi. Check the tire pressure each morning before hitting the road. Reading them when they’re cold will give you the most accurate reading.
Take Care of Your Body
Your body is in charge of operating the bike, so taking care of it is paramount to safe riding. Simple things like getting enough sleep and drinking plenty of water can help you stay focused and alert. You’ll also want to eat a hearty meal before riding, as burning calories can make it easier to stay warm and give you the energy you need for a day of riding.
Finally, if it starts to get too cold, simply pull over. Find a diner to grab a cup of coffee or a meal and give yourself the chance to warm up a little before heading on your way.
Check Road Conditions
Even though you can usually count on road conditions in the area being pretty good, that’s not a guarantee. Slick roads, freezing temperatures, and high traffic might turn you off of a day of riding. Always check the weather the morning before you set out to see what you can expect and turn on the news for local traffic reports. Consider what you’re comfortable riding in and what kinds of drivers you want to be around when you’re out on the road.
On that note, you’re ready to hit the road with the right cold-weather strategy so you can enjoy riding your motorcycle all year long. If you’re still looking for the perfect Harley-Davidson motorcycle for sale near San Diego and Oceanside, then stop by Biggs Harley-Davidson to check out the models we have available right now.