When the spring arrives, more motorcyclists go out on the roads of Georgia. Although fewer riders venture out during the winter, it’s certainly possible if you take precautions. Winter motorcycle riding involves different considerations than at other times of the year. This year, winter has lingered bringing snow in March.
Here are some top tips for winter motorcycle riding in Georgia.
1 Wear Winter Weather Gear and Plenty of Layers
Layering is very important for winter riding because riders are very exposed. Base layers including full leg and sleeve clothing are vital. Consider makes like UnderArmour. Even in winter when bikers ride, they sweat. The base layers allow our skin to breath, removing moisture. This will help sweat evaporate rather than turning to cold perspiration on the rider’s body.
Consider clothing like a fleece over the base layers to create an insulating barrier. For an outer layer, consider a durable material like Gore-Tex and sturdy boots with a great grip.
Durable gloves and a neck warmer are also necessary. Advances in clothing technology mean it’s now possible to buy heated clothing.
Tips for winter motorcycle riding
2 Check Tires and Heat Them
In cold weather, your bike’s tires will be colder. Colder tires mean limited traction and an increased risk of an accident. Riding your bike helps increase heat in the tire, but even the briefest stop can rapidly cool the tires down, leading to a lack of traction.
You can get heat into your tires by accelerating and decelerating quickly for a short time.
Always have adequate tread on your tires for winter riding. Check regularly and invest in good quality tires. If it snows, it’s vital to have plenty of tread.
It’s also more important than ever to check tire pressure during the winter months.
3 Watch Out for Salt and Cracks
Salt can rust your bike and impact your traction. Treat salt as if it’s ice. If you see crystalized white salt on the side of the road, keep clear. Snow plows can case cracks in roads that are dangerous to riders.
Black ice is a further danger to motorcyclists. If possible, you should avoid riding in icy or snowy conditions.
4 Kit Out Your Bike for Winter Conditions
Certain accessories can make winter riding more pleasant and safer. Consider fitting large windscreen, and handguards to your bike. You can also fit heated grips.
If your bike is water-cooled, ensure the antifreeze is fresh. It should be changed yearly. Make sure it’s properly mixed. Few things are worse than a busted radiator or hose on a cold day when you are miles away from home.
5 Maintain Space and Visibility
You should always be conscious of space and visibility, especially during the winter months.
Increasing visibility means looking even further down the road so as you can spot hazards before they occur. It lets you to react to a potential threat well in advance.
When you are following another vehicle, maintain a few car lengths of space ahead. This will allow you to see cars stopping or turning ahead of you. You should also keep your speed down, particularly during periods of poor visibility.
See more winter motorcycling tips at Ultimate Motorcycling. If you have been hurt in a motorcycling crash, please contact the Law Office of Michael West at (404) 913-1529.