When the leaves start falling and the temperatures drop, motorcycle riding requires extra caution. But don’t let that stop you! With the right preparation and gear, you can enjoy riding year-round. Here’s your guide to staying safe and comfortable on two wheels during the colder months.
1. Gear Up for the Cold
Invest in Proper Clothing
The most important part of winter riding is staying warm. Wearing multiple layers helps trap heat and keeps you comfortable during long rides. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating middle layer, and finish with a windproof, waterproof jacket.
Heated Gear
Consider heated gear, like gloves and vests, to stay cosy even on the coldest days. Heated grips or handlebar muffs also help to keep your hands warm, ensuring better control of your bike.
Waterproof Everything
Autumn and winter are notorious for rain. Make sure your riding gear, from your jacket to your boots, is waterproof. If it’s not, invest in waterproof covers. Nothing makes a ride more miserable than wet clothes!
2. Visibility is Key
Reflective Gear
Shorter days mean reduced visibility. Wear gear with reflective strips or use high-visibility clothing to ensure other drivers can see you, especially in the rain or fog. Adding extra lights to your motorcycle can also help.
Keep Your Visor Clear
Rain and fog can quickly obscure your vision. Use an anti-fog spray or a Pinlock insert on your helmet visor to prevent fogging. Make sure your visor is clean before every ride, and carry a microfiber cloth for mid-ride cleanups.
3. Bike Maintenance
Tyres
Cold temperatures cause tyre pressure to drop, so check it regularly. Additionally, your tyres need good tread to handle slippery autumn leaves or icy roads. If you ride in areas prone to snow or ice, consider switching to winter-specific motorcycle tyres.
Battery Care
Cold weather can be tough on your bike’s battery. A weak battery might struggle to start in the cold. Keep your battery charged by using a trickle charger, especially if your bike sits unused for long periods.
Lubrication
In colder months, your motorcycle chain and other components might need more frequent lubrication. Cold weather thickens oil, so ensure your chain, cables, and moving parts are well-maintained to avoid stiffness.
4. Adjust Your Riding Style
Slow Down
Rain, wet leaves, and even early frost can make the roads slippery. Ride slower and give yourself extra time to react. Sudden braking or sharp turns increase the risk of skidding.
Increase the Following Distance
In wet or cold conditions, your bike’s stopping distance increases. Give yourself more space between you and the vehicle ahead, reducing the chance of an accident.
Smooth Movements
Keep your throttle, brake, and steering inputs as smooth as possible. Jerky movements can cause your bike to lose traction, especially in wet or icy conditions.
5. Plan Your Route
Avoid Risky Areas
In autumn, fallen leaves can hide potholes or cover road markings, making navigation trickier. In winter, black ice can form on bridges or shaded areas. Stick to roads you know well, and avoid poorly maintained routes.
Check the Weather
Always check the weather before heading out. If you know it’s going to be particularly bad—heavy rain, snow, or freezing temperatures—consider whether it’s worth riding at all. Safety should always come first.
6. Warm Up Your Bike
Let Your Engine Warm Up
Before you get on the road, give your bike a few minutes to warm up. Cold oil takes longer to circulate, and warming up the engine ensures smoother operation, especially in freezing temperatures.
Conclusion
Autumn and winter riding can be challenging, but with the right preparation, you can enjoy your motorcycle year-round. Gear up with the proper clothing, maintain your bike, adjust your riding style, and always prioritise safety. By taking these steps, you can confidently tackle the colder months on your bike!
Stay warm, ride safe, and enjoy the road ahead!
