Tips for Riding an Adventure Bike in the Cold Weather

There’s no better way to ride off-road trails than with an adventure motorcycle. While other types of motorcycles can be faster or louder, adventure bikes let you go where you might not have thought it possible before. However, when the temperature dips during the winter months, many bikers choose to stow their motorcycles away while they await warmer days. If you’re a hardcore adventure enthusiast, a little cold weather shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the open road.

It’s a whole new ball game when you cruise through the wintry roads on your adventure motorcycle! Thrills aside, there are certain precautions that need to be taken to keep you safe and sound, and the experts at BMW Motorcycles of Burbank have got you covered. We’ve gathered up some essential tips for safe riding in the cold weather. Keep reading to learn more and if you’re looking for some quality adventure bikes for sale, stop by our dealership in Burbank, CA, to browse our inventory.

Layer it Up

Layers are a great way to protect yourself against the chilly weather. They keep you warmer than wearing one large coat, and you can keep removing layers as the day gets warmer to adjust your temperature. Your base layer should be a good set of thin thermal clothes, with a warmer second layer made of wool or fleece to trap some extra heat. Your regular riding jacket and pants can work just to insulate those two layers, but you might want to consider a set of breathable riding gear if you usually use leather when you ride. 

Other life-saving items if you’re setting out on a winter trip include full-face helmets with anti-fogging features, neck guards, water-resistant gloves that extend into your jacket to protect against water intrusion, and finally waterproof boots to protect your fingers from the numbing cold.

Take Frequent Breaks

The frosty wind and the speed at which you’re riding can make it feel like it’s 20 degrees colder than it really is. Riding your adventure motorcycle in the winter can be exhausting, and your mind can often feel just as numb as your fingers in the cold air after a few hours of cruising. So it is always a sensible idea to make frequent stops to give your body a rest and warm up a bit if the trip’s a long one.

Setting Up Your Bike for a Winter Adventure

A windshield is crucial to ensure reliable wind resistance. If your adventure bike doesn’t have a windshield, then there are tons of aftermarket options. A set of wind guards are also worth investing in so that your feet don’t freeze. You can also equip your bike with a set of heated grips to make your riding experience more comfortable. 

Hydrate and Eat Well 

Weather-proofing your adventure motorcycle and getting the right biking gear for a winter bike trip is just the first step. Keeping yourself energized and alert with nutritious food and lots of water is crucial. A good, hot meal can help keep your core temperature high and lots of water ensures that you remain hydrated. Biking for a long time can cause dehydration, which in turn leads to fatigue. So, it’s important to prepare yourself to deal with the harsh cold before you embark on a challenging motorcycle expedition.

Precautions to Take When on the Road

Ice or snow on the road is a perfect recipe for disaster and road conditions are severely compromised during winter. Ice reduces the traction, which means more time taken to accelerate, turn, brake, and change lanes. Be extra cautious in high-risk areas like tunnels, patches of shade on the road, bridges, and valleys. Steer clear of motorcyclists driving aggressively and leave more room between you and other bikers on the road. Keep in mind that accidents can also happen because of the callousness of other riders. Most importantly, drive at a speed at which you’re still in control of your bike. Being a speed junkie is great, but having a sensible head on your shoulders is more important.

We hope that this guide has been useful. Always make sure that your adventure motorcycle is up for the challenge and running smoothly before you take on the cold weather. BMW Motorcycles of Burbank can help with all your service and parts needs. Visit our dealership in Burbank, California, where we serve all those in Pasadena and Glendale.