Knowing When to Ride
It is not safe to ride when there is snow or ice on the ground or if it is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit outside. This can lead to slick conditions that dramatically increase the risk of injury. Be prepared to leave your motorcycle in the garage when conditions take a turn for the worse.
Everything You Need to Ride in the Winter
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- – Lots of Layers: You can never have too many layers when you’re riding around in the frigid cold. A simple jacket and pants won’t be enough to keep your body temperature up. You’ll need to wear several layers of moisture-wicking fabric to lock in the heat so it doesn’t escape while you’re riding. The layers should be easy to remove and not too tight to improve circulation. Carry around extra layers in a waterproof bag in case the temperature drops unexpectedly. Don’t forget to factor in the wind chill when preparing for your ride.
- – Waterproof Everything: There is nothing standing in between you and all the moisture in the air except your winter riding gear. All outer-facing layers should be completely waterproof to keep your body warm and dry while riding in the winter, including your gloves, jacket, pants and boots. Extend layers over one another to prevent moisture from slipping between the cracks. Your socks should extend up the legs of your pants and your sleeves should fit into your gloves.
- – Full-Face Helmet with Neck Scarf: If you are using a skull cap, you may want to consider upgrading to a full-face helmet for added insulation and warmth. The helmet wraps all the way around your head to prevent moisture from slipping inside. Add a neck scarf to protect your neck from the wind.
If you stick with your half-face helmet or skull cap, you should wear a face mask or hood underneath the helmet for extra warmth.
- – Wireless Bluetooth Headset: Pair your full-face helmet with a wireless Bluetooth headset to stay connected to your companions. The latest technology lets you connect to up to 15 riders at the same time. Find a headset with dynamic mesh communication so you don’t have to manually reset the device every time you fall out of range. It will automatically connect to anyone in your party when in range.
Use a Motorcycle Bluetooth Helmet to Stay Connected
Using a half-helmet instead? Use a half-helmet Bluetooth headset kit with an adjustable boom mic to keep the receiver close to your mouth.
Using a wireless headset makes it easy to sync up with the rest of your group. You never know when you might need to pull over and warm up. You can also keep an eye on the weather to avoid riding in dangerous conditions.
Consider mounting your phone or GPS device to your handlebars to keep the screen in view. Sign up for weather alerts to make sure you have the latest information.
Use a Half-Helmet Bluetooth Headset with a Skull Cap
- – Electronically Powered Heater: You can also add an electric personal heating system to your ensemble for even more protection from the cold. The wearable vest sends a steady stream of heat to your core, so you can take longer trips without freezing along the way. You can adjust the heat setting based on the temperature outside. Keep it on just in case the temperature drops unexpectedly.
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Riding your motorcycle in the winter can be just as much fun as it is in the summer when you have the right equipment. You should be able to ride around as you please as long as the roads are clear and the temperature is hospitable. Keep these tips in mind to ride safely during the off-season.
