Cold Weather Motorcycle Riding Tips

Some people may pack away their motorcycles in the winter, but you're not going to let cold temperatures stop you from enjoying your passion! It is possible to keep riding motorcycles when the weather takes a dip, but you’ll need to take some proactive steps to stay safe. We gathered up everything you need to do to have a successful cold-weather riding experience. 

Cold Weather Attire

The change in temperatures also merits a change in your riding clothes. It's not just that feeling cold is uncomfortable. It can be a safety issue! When you're cold, your hands may shiver and struggle to control your motorcycle. Your brain can get a fog, which makes it difficult to focus. Then there's the threat of hypothermia and frostbite. You'll need to stay warm to stay safe.

The trick is to focus on layering. It'll give you more warmth than throwing on one giant coat. It also gives you the option of removing layers if the temperatures warm up as the day goes on. For your base layer, you'll want thin thermal underwear. Next, you'll want wool or fleece to trap in heat. If you usually wear leather outerwear, you might want to get some more breathable riding gear for the colder temperatures.

Cold Weather Accessories

You can also wear accessories to help stay warm. If possible, wear a full-face helmet with anti-fogging features. It'll keep you warm without messing up your view of the road. A neck guard, like the ones that skiers and snowboarders use, will keep you very warm. Look for water-resistant gloves that go up your arm to seal with your jacket. That'll keep you dry on snowy or rainy days. Finally, throw on a pair of waterproof boots.

Tire Maintenance

The plummeting temperatures can affect your motorcycle tires. Each ten-degree drop in temperature leads to about one to two pounds of lost air pressure. In the wintertime, you'll want to check your air pressure before hitting the road. That way, you'll be able to adjust them if needed before your ride.

If you need to warm up your tires on your ride, you can use friction to your advantage. Accelerate, then decelerate abruptly. Of course, only do this in a contained and safe area such as an empty street or large parking lot.

We hope you found this guide helpful! When you take the proper safety precautions, riding in the winter can be a safe and fun experience. For all your motorcycle needs, visit Fun Products Goldsboro. We are based in Goldsboro, NC, and we also serve all our customers in Greenville, Wilson, and Raleigh.