Motorcycle winter riding tips

  • Published
  • By Cindy McClendon
  • 17th Training Wing Safety Office
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas - --  Motorcycle enthusiasts enjoy motorcycle riding in every season. However, riding a motorcycle during the winter months may present more dangers than at other times of the year due to inclement weather and slippery roads. The following are a few tips for motorcyclists to help stay safe when riding this winter season:

· Make sure to have a qualified mechanic inspect your bike before winter riding. Check your bike frequently yourself. Changing winter temperatures may cause tires to lose pressure, and light bulbs to burn out. Corrosion during winter can be avoided by washing off the salt and road dirt causing oxidisation. Wax your alloy rims with a nice hard wax to prevent the outboard motor effect. Try putting a little grease or Vaseline in areas you think should stay dry. Frequent checks ensure a safer ride.

· Before you hit the open road, check the weather forecast and road condition reports so you can prepare accordingly. Be aware of changing conditions such as rain, snow, ice, freezing rain and black-ice are very dangerous on a motorcycle. If there is a chance of any type of freezing conditions, it is best to leave the motorcycle at home and take the car.

· Be aware that pedestrians in wet or cold weather don't always pay attention to traffic, especially when running across the road to avoid getting wet. They usually keep their heads down to avoid the rain, so keep yours up to avoid them.

· There is an illusion created by pot holes. Appearing like puddles, they conceal their depth...that is until you ride over them. Never assume a puddle is just a puddle.

· In the winter rains the mixture of water and tree sap can form a slippery film on the road, the perfect trap for the unwary motorcyclist. Also fallen leaves can be slippery. Use caution around leaves, especially if they are wet.

· Let your tires warm-up. Rubber gets harder as it gets cold. As this happens, the tires are able to provide less traction than they can in warmer temperatures. Friction with the ground will cause the rubber to warm as you ride. Until the tires are warm, it is a good idea to limit high-traction situations as much as possible.

· Get a good leather motorcycle jacket, helmet, gloves and boots. Cover up your body while out on a ride and eliminate any places where the cold air can enter. Dress in layers. Riders should also consider electric vests and electric gloves that can keep you warm.

· Consider installing a windshield. Motorcycle windshields can be very effective for diverting the wind away from the rider. Other types of wind deflectors divert wind around the hands and legs.

· Using the proper oil for your motorcycle is also top priority. The 10w - 40w oil is sufficient enough. For those with liquid-cooled bikes, make sure that the reading on the anti-freeze is sufficient for the temperatures you'll be expecting.

· Watch out for auto drivers out there. Many don't expect to see motorcycles on the road during the winter time so they're especially not looking for you.

Your winter riding can be a great adventure. Just make sure that while you're having fun, you and your motorcycle are also safe and sound.

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