4 Critical Tips For Cold-Weather Motorcycling

4 Critical Tips For Cold-Weather Motorcycling
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Carson]Jenny Carson

Anytime is the right time to ride your motorcycle. Well, it is highly advisable to get off roads caked with snow and ice. Still, extreme temperatures should not prevent you from enjoying the thrill of the open road, on your motorcycle. In particular, you may enjoy cruising in the late autumn or throughout the wintertime. To avoid hypothermia and general discomfort while riding in frigid temperatures, it is wise to follow some guidelines, to cope with the rock-bottom temperatures:

1. Consider riding after daylight savings time ends

Many motorcyclists decide to store their vehicles for the winter, once daylight savings time ends. Exposing themselves to the frigid temperatures and precipitation of winter seems too much of a hassle. However, with the right gear and information, you can equip yourself for cold-weather riding.

2. A warm body is your destination

Your chief goal for cold-weather riding should be to maintain a warm body. In particular, you want to avoid experiencing hypothermia. Hypothermia is a condition in which your body's temperature drops below the minimum point required to function properly. Shivering is one of the first symptoms of hypothermia. When you experience it, some useful remedies include drinking a cup of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, etc., or getting indoors.

3. Handle wet clothing properly

When motorcycling, it is common for either the elements or precipitation to dampen you clothing. However, never let them dampen your spirits. You can take certain steps to fight the war against dampness. The first plan of action should be to change your wet gear as soon as possible. Wet gear will become virtually useless against the relentlessness of icy-cold temperatures.

Secondly, factor in how wind chill temperatures will influence your damp gear. While riding, the chilly effect of wind kicks in at 30 miles-per-hour. At this point, the wind that whips past your body makes the air feel colder than it actually is. Thus, the wind, when combined with wet gear and cold temperatures, can exponentially increase the likelihood of hypothermia. When in doubt--change!

4. Choose the right gear

Fortunately, wearing the right riding gear can help to reduce the effects of frigid temperatures in the late fall and wintertime. One of the keys to gearing up for winter riding is to dress in layers:

• Base Layer: Silk, nylon, and wool are some ideal fabrics. Avoid cotton as it dries slowly and retains water.
• Mid Layer: You should get most of your warmth from this layer. This should typically include manmade fabrics, such as fleece. Waterproof articles are an added bonus.
• Outer Layer: This includes a jacket and riding pants. You could consider textile over leather, as the latter is typically neither waterproof nor windproof.

Other winter gear to consider includes a helmet; gloves; and boots, such as Harley Davidson boots. Prioritize comfort and insulation.

Wintertime motorcycling is definitely an option for those who are ready to brave the elements. However, make sure to take certain precautions, in order to safeguard yourself against colds and the cold.

For more tips and information about harley davidson boots, please check out http://www.harley-davidson-boots.net.

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