TIPS AND TRICKS 23
BEAT THE COLD: WINTER RIDING TIPS AND TRICKS Riding a motorcycle at any time of the year demands caution, but riding through the winter can prove especially treacherous. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up riding, and tuck your ride away in a darkened garage until the sun reappears. With the right kit, a little common sense, and some minor changes in your riding style, you can carry on riding safely through all but the worst of the winter weather.
WATCH THE WEATHER
Keep an eye on the weather if you’re planning to get out on two wheels. If the temperature has dropped below freezing overnight, chances are that patches of ice could easily form. Even if the weather looks mild, there’s no guarantee you’ll not encounter some ice on your journey. If it’s snowing outside, try and avoid venturing out on your bike. You might think you’ve got the skills, experience and response times to handle it, but accidents do happen. In short, play it safe when the weather’s bad and don’t over-estimate your abilities.
COLD WEATHER, COLDER TYRES
Cold weather means cold tyres, and cold tyres means limited traction. We all know that. Of course, riding will help to increase heat and subsequently traction, but even the briefest break in cold weather will allow your tyres to quickly cool, and you’re back to square one.
Don’t skimp; you’ll need to ensure you’ve got plenty of tread left if you’re going to be riding through winter. If the weather takes a turn, you’ll need all the tread you can get to help channel water/ snow on cold roads. And be sure to check your tyre pressures too, ideally before every ride.
BRAKING DISTANCES
There are a number of factors that can affect braking distances, including vehicle weight, speed, braking force and thinking time. Add winter road conditions to the mix and you’re going to want to adapt your riding to help keep you safe out on two wheels. Braking distances in winter can increase up to 10 times, so the more space you give yourself, the better. Firstly, open up your line of sight and increase your visibility – basically, look further down the road than you usually would, to give you as much time as possible to react to possible hazards. Secondly, increase your following distance. Riding tight up to the back end of a car is always a bad idea. Even in optimum conditions you’re going to struggle to pull up in time, never mind if the road is wet or icy.
WRAP UP
Being cold and wet on a bike is not fun. In fact, you’ll become less alert, and your slower reaction times could leave you at risk. Insulated, non-bulky, wind and waterproof gear will maintain your body temperature and keep you at your sharpest when out on the road. Multi-layering works best, but it’s important to make sure you are able to handle the controls easily and effectively. There’s nothing worse than a bulky pair of gloves which make you catch your horn when you reach for your indicators. In short, there is no doubt that a warm rider is far safer than one who is frozen solid in the winter chill. Being too cold can lead to shivering, exhaustion, confusion, memory loss, slurred speech, drowsiness, low energy, slow reaction times, and stiff and sore joints. Whereas, warm and comfortable riders are more alert, more supple, and better able to deal with emergency situations as they may arise.
Don’t forget... ■ Never assume that you’ve been seen by other road users (sensible advice all-year round to be fair). Signal earlier, wear bright, reflective gear, and give other drivers/riders plenty of room. ■ Be sure to check your lights and tyre pressures regularly – ideally, before every ride. ■ Increase the braking distance to account for wet or icy roads. ■ Watch your lean angle and be cautious of wet leaves and drain covers. ■ Stay fog free and able to see by using anti-misting spray on your visor and mirrors.
