How to: Ride a Motorcycle in the Winter
For those who live in warmer climates, riding year-round is second nature. There may be times when extra layers are needed or the urge to turn on the heated grips becomes enticing, but it doesn’t become an overwhelming or insurmountable task. If you live in a colder climate and simply can’t wrap your brain around tucking your bike away for the season, there are precautions you can take to do it safely and comfortably. Readers chimed in with their winter riding recommendations, but we’ve got some tips of our own.
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Gearing Up
Whether you’re riding in snow or not, an important facet to riding in the winter is protecting yourself from the elements to stay comfortable and dexterous. Heated grips and seat are just the beginning. Once you enjoy the luxury of battery operated or plug-in heated gear, you’ll never go back. Having handguards and a large windscreen or fairing will also help protect you from windchill.
Adapt Your Riding Style
Snow, ice, salted or sanded surfaces or even just cold pavement will all impact a bike’s ability to grip when starting, stopping, and cornering. Focus on smooth inputs and leave plenty of space for a longer braking distance. Monitor the conditions and ride accordingly.
Choosing the Right Machine
If you happen to be searching for models that will tackle cold conditions where traction is likely to be compromised, we have identified some things to keep in mind as well as a small selection of models to put on your short-list.
You may want to consider the following:
- Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI): Automatically adjust fuel mixtures while being less susceptible to icing and vaporization.
- Four-Stroke: Provides better fuel efficiency, higher torque at lower RPM and more linear power delivery.
- Stability and Weight: Given a higher likelihood of being dropped, consider a three-wheeled option or a bike that you will be able to lift upright on your own.
A short-list of options to consider:
- Ural: Offers the stability of three wheels with the added confidence of two-wheel drive.
- Can-Am Canyon: Another three-wheel option that offers comfort, protection, balance, and stability.
- Honda African Twin: A middleweight Adventure bike with hand protection and a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT).
- KTM 450 XC-F: A versatile mount with soft suspension to tackle varied terrain and conditions.
Tire Tips
When riding in snow, you may also want to change your tires if you have winter-specific treads that you can swap for your normal tires. Standard tires become stiff and lose their grip when temperatures dip below 45 degrees F. Winter tires have a softer rubber compound that stay flexible in colder weather. They also have deeper tread channels to evacuate mud, snow, and slush for improved grip on cold or loose surfaces . If you don’t already have winter tires, look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol (3PMSF) or M+S rating when shopping.
A number of manufacturers make products that provided added grip in cold weather conditions where traction can be compromised. Models like the Anlas Winter Grip Plus are ideal for snow and cold, while the Heidenau K60 Scout is better for mixed conditions. Metzeler Roadtec 01 SE and Michelin Road 6 are optimized for cold and wet riding that’s not in deep snow, while the Continental TKC 80 or Kenda K784 Big Block are made specifically for off-road and severe snow riding. If you have a scooter you want to ride year-round, consider the Mitas MC-32 Winter or Anlas Winter Grip 2.
Maintenance and Aftercare
If you do ride on roads that have been salted or brined, ensure you give your bike a good wash when you get home -preferably in a heated area to avoid ice accumulation. This will help to remove the chemicals that cause corrosion to various components. Chain, brake and clutch cables should then be lubricated to avoid seizing. Applying wax, polish or leather treatment beforehand will also help provide a layer of protection to your bike’s various surfaces.
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Barrett Baker
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