Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Motorcycle Riding in Winter




If you're a serious motorcycle enthusiast and live in a cold climate during the wintertime, can you still ride your bike? Absolutely, but you must take precautions. Here's a few tips that will allow you to enjoy your bike for much of the winter:

First and foremost, it's essential to be aware of weather and road conditions when you are traveling in winter, even for short distance riding. You need to know the weather before you head out, so you can make sure that you're prepared for the worst possible conditions.

You need to wear the proper gear to stay warm while riding. Wind is the biggest source of cold and keeping your body shielded from the wind is of the utmost importance. Many riders use tape to seal any openings between your gloves and coat or your boots and jeans. Keeping the wind out is paramount to staying warm. Wear layers under a warm, yet flexible coat. Wearing a coat that is too puffy, for instance, could detract from the freedom of movement you have, and could make riding unsafe. There are now electric gloves and vests available for motorcycle riders. These are excellent for staying warm, yet preserving your flexibility and freedom of movement.

Electric vests and gloves are powered by a battery that you will control with a thermostat, which goes in your pocket. With the thermostat, you can control the temperature of the vest or gloves. Wearing layers is also key, but the layers should be quite warm, yet also thin. There are new options in clothing that is thin yet very warm, and these options use very high tech materials. In winter, your helmet should be a full face helmet, complete with face shield. Protecting your neck is vital as well, make sure to use a scarf or other neck accessory and tuck it snugly yet comfortably into your jacket, so that no air can leak through. There are, however, full body options for motorcycle riders. These jump suits are actually made for snowmobile riding, but are a great choice for bikers, since they offer full body protection from wind, wet and cold.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lydia_Quinn

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