Winter motorbike tips: What all you need to know for cold weather riding 26th Oct 2021
Morning chill, dense fog, and cold weather are the signs of winter's arrival. Even visualizing yourself riding through the empty roads in freezing weather can shiver you with cold. Riding a motorcycle in winter can be challenging. Therefore, proper winter gear, clothing, and some tips are essential to consider while planning cold weather riding.
In this space, we've shared our best recommendations to make your winter motorcycle riding plan fool proof.
1. Warm yourself up; feel the heat:
Layering! Wind-blocking is simply the formula. Before you even think about your bike jacket, you need to put some layers of clothing barriers in place right near to your skin. Here's a brief guide.
• The base layer – a warm t-shirt
• A hoodie or fleece
• Motorcycle jackets – leathers aren't particularly appropriate for the cold. Instead, choose a warm, waterproof textile alternative
• A neck warmer or snood – especially if you're riding on the highway
• And finally, suitable warm gloves
• Layering your torso isn't enough. Invest in winter boots, layer-up socks, and pants
2. Charge up your batteries; don’t let them chill:
The chilled months can be difficult for your bike's battery since the colder temperature delay its chemical processes, causing it to cease operating. To keep it charged, you must ride your bike regularly. Utilizing a trickle charger to keep the battery completely charged can also help.
3. Ensure visibility; keep your vision clear as your enthusiasm:
Install a pin-lock and wipe your helmet visor with running water to keep it clear and fog-free. Don't go scrubbing since the salt and grime will damage your visor and cause it to become foggy.
4. Helmet; not for fashion but protection:
You should consider purchasing a winter-specific helmet with reduced front-end ventilation. And a visor that doesn't allow fog to settle in. Only buy a helmet that has ISI certification.
5. Clean your bike; to have consistent running:
Cleaning your bike in winter can be difficult, especially if you know you'll have to do it regularly. But hear us out, cleaning off the road salt can make a significant difference in the start of corrosion. You can use a protective lubricant and anti-corrosion spray to avoid components from melting into a puddle. It will also make cleaning the bike faster and easier. Winters invite unexpected damages and repair works to your bike. Next time when you buy warm clothes to be winter-ready, consider checking your bike maintenance and bike insurance policy to ensure your preparedness against the weather.
6. Monitor the weather; be the forecast expert:
Following the weather forecast is a must for every motorcyclist, especially during the winter months. By checking the weather online, you can prepare for a foggy day or lovely day accordingly.
Whether you’re planning for a long ride or a short trip to your neighbourhood store, cautious riding is essential to help navigate cold and wet roads. The freezing weather outside determines more than you think; when to slow down, be smooth, maintain enough distance for braking, following essential tips and ensure bike insurance to cover you for any eventuality. So check back regularly the above tips for comfortable riding and keep you protected on the bike throughout winter.
Click HERE to know about the best bike insurance plans before your next bike ride.
Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.