Tips for Riding a Motorcycle in Cold Weather

Here in the Midwest, we face some pretty severe winter weather. Not every locale has to deal with heavy snows and below-freezing temperatures, but we certainly do! As an avid motorcycle rider, what can you do? You could store your bike for the winter and pull it out again in the spring, or you could modify how you ride and continue to enjoy your bike through the winter season.

If you’d prefer to bundle up and do the latter, then we’re more than happy to help you out! As your local Harley-Davidson® dealer, Wisconsin Harley-Davidson here in Oconomowoc has all the tips you need for safe riding in cold weather.

Wear The Proper Gear

First and most obviously, you’re going to need to dress for cold temperatures. Standing still or walking in the cold is one thing, but traveling at 60 miles per hour with your whole body exposed to the effects of wind is entirely another. Dressing in layers will help to ensure that you stay warm without feeling sweaty or unable to move.

Start with a thin, wicking layer of thermal underwear or leggings, then add wool or polyester layers on top as needed for the temperature. Your outermost garment can be a windproof and waterproof riding jacket combined with riding pants, or an insulated one-piece riding suit. 

Swap out your summer boots for more insulated winter motorcycle boots, adding thick wool socks to keep your feet warm and dry. A pair of insulated riding gloves, a neck gaiter or snug scarf, a thin wool cap and your standard motorcycle helmet will complete your winter ensemble. Carry a few extra layers with you just in case you need to add on or remove a layer that’s gotten wet from the snow.

Check Tire Pressure

Your wheels are more likely to become deflated in the cold; in fact, you can lose one to two pounds of pressure for every 10° colder that the ambient temperature plunges. Check the air pressure on both tires before you depart so you can air them up as needed. Warming up your tires by accelerating and decelerating quickly in a safe area can help improve traction. Make sure that you’re not riding on worn tires in the winter. You’ll need plenty of tread to keep contact with the asphalt. Some tires are even designed for winter riding, and you can swap out your usual wheels for these if you prefer.

Take Care of Yourself

You’ll need to take more frequent breaks when riding in the cold, so don’t try to push yourself too hard. If you feel your fingers or toes becoming numb or you experience pain from the cold, pull over and head indoors to warm up. Don’t be afraid to cut your ride short if conditions worsen.

Make sure that you’re also staying hydrated by drinking enough water at rest stops. Maintain your energy levels with some high-calorie, filling snacks, since your body will be burning more calories to stay warm.

Remain Vigilant

Finally, you’ll need to be watchful of road conditions and mindful of the traffic around you as you ride. As a good motorcyclist, you undoubtedly do this anyway, but icy roads can be very treacherous and you don’t want to slide out if you can avoid it. Remember that the motorists around you may also be struggling with their own traction, so you may need to move quickly to avoid a collision. Look at the road ahead so you know what you can expect in terms of sleet, ice, snow or heavy traffic congestion. 

Seeking Harley-Davidson motorcycles for sale near Milwaukee? Visit our dealership in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, to take a look at our full selection of new and used bikes for sale, including models by Harley-Davidson. Wisconsin Harley-Davidson proudly serves the cities of Madison and Waukesha, WI.