When the weather starts getting cold, most people who ride motorcycles choose to put them away for the winter. However, you have other ideas and intend to keep riding even in the frigid weather. This may be something that you do every year, or you may have recently met other riders who told you it’s what they do. Whatever the reason, you plan on riding this winter.
Of course, it is important to understand that riding a motorcycle in the cold is different than riding in warmer weather. You may already know a few tips to keep in mind, but if this is your first winter keeping your motorcycle on the road, you need to make sure that you are prepared.
Cold affects you
The cold can affect you and many other Illinois residents in various ways. Just being outside for a short amount of time can have a considerable impact on the body. As a result, you need to remember that, when you ride a motorcycle in cold weather, your dexterity can decline. Even in gloves, your hands and fingers can feel stiff because of the cold, and the added layer of gloves could affect your grip.
Additionally, the cold makes you tired and affects your ability to concentrate. It is important to take breaks and rest when riding in the cold. Riding for too long could result in a decline in mental sharpness that could put you at greater risk of an accident.
Cold affects roadway conditions
Of course, if you are riding in the cold, you may also end up riding where there is snow and ice. Unfortunately, snow and ice can easily affect the traction your motorcycle gets on the road. In some cases, you may have the ability to anticipate less traction and adjust accordingly, but if you hit a spot in the road where an unexpected patch of ice remains, you could quickly lose control.
It is also likely for salt to be on the roadways in attempts to melt ice and make the road safer for travel. However, salt can also affect the traction your motorcycle tires get on the road, and again, a loss of control is possible.
Cold affects other drivers
Even if you do your best to remain aware of your surroundings, take breaks and accommodate for roadway conditions, other drivers may not be so conscientious. It is even possible that they will not expect motorcyclists to be on the roads in such cold weather. As a result, another driver could easily cause an accident that leaves you seriously injured and in need of compensation for damages.