Driving any vehicle in the winter requires extra care, but riding a motorcycle demands a different level of awareness. Roads are already unpredictable, and when you throw in some ice, sleet, snow, and black ice, the danger increases tenfold.
But for many motorcyclists, staying home or driving a regular car isn’t an option. If you’re going to ride in the winter, a little extra awareness will go a long way.
Don’t underestimate the risks of riding in winter
Driving a motorcycle in winter changes the entire physics of the road. Cold, wet pavement loses traction, engines behave differently, and your reaction time is a bit slower. One small slip of the tire can put your bike off balance.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 24 times more likely to die in a crash compared to passenger vehicle occupants. Winter road conditions amplify this risk. And injury accidents in winter are extremely common.
But winter accidents aren’t always caused by the motorcycle. Often, they’re caused by a passenger vehicle that slides into another lane or is driving too fast for the current road conditions. Drivers already have a hard time seeing motorcycles. With fogged windshields and low winter sun glare, they’re even less likely to notice you in winter.
Prepare your motorcycle for winter riding
Your bike is unlikely to be ready for winter driving without some preparation. Cold winter temperatures affect everything from tire pressure and fluids to the performance of electrical components. Tire pressure generally drops by 1 PSI for every 10°F decrease in temperature. This can dramatically change your handling. Underinflated tires reduce traction, and that’s bad news for wet and icy roads.
- Check tire pressure before each ride. Before you ride, check your tire pressure and make sure to maintain it according to your tire manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Switch your oil. Cold makes oil extra thick, and that’s why some riders use lower viscosity oil in the winter.
- Inspect your battery. Cold weather strains batteries and reduces output. If your battery is already weak, you’ll find out the hard way in winter.
- Clean and lubricate your chain regularly. Winter moisture and road salt will corrode your chain fast. Keep it properly lubricated to avoid extra wear.
A bike prepared for winter will respond better and help you maintain control when you need it most.
Wear gear that keeps you warm
Your gear should keep you warm while you ride. Cold muscles slow down reaction times and numb fingers will make it hard to react fast enough to avoid hazards.
Layer your clothes and gear to prioritize warmth. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer followed by thermal insulation and then add a windproof shell. Avoid cotton because it traps moisture and won’t keep you warm. A balaclava and full-face helmet will keep your face and sinuses warm.
Heated gloves, vests, and grips are worth every penny. Warm hands alone can greatly improve braking and clutch response. But most importantly, wear gear with reflective material or bright colors to increase your visibility on the road.
Practice winter riding skills
Winter riding requires some additional skills and extra awareness. In a safe environment off the road, practice braking and accelerating smoothly to make it a habit. Sudden movement will break your traction. Lean into turns less than usual and increase your following distance by 2-3x.
Know when to stay home
There’s only so much you can do to stay safe on the winter roads. You can’t control what other drivers do, and as a motorcyclist, you’re the one with the most vulnerability. With that said, sometimes safety means staying home and not riding at all. Having grit is nice, but know your limits.
Avoid riding while it’s actively snowing or in freezing rain. Skip those early morning and late-night trips – at these hours, frost hardens and temperatures bottom out. If your route involves a bridge or overpass, skip it when you can because these structures freeze fast. Part of being a skilled motorcycle rider is knowing when the smart choice is not riding at all.
Ride smart and be alert
Riding a motorcycle in the winter months is more dangerous than riding at other times. It requires more awareness and preparation, warmer clothing, and extra bike maintenance. With the right gear and mindset, you can stay safe while enjoying the freedom of the road in winter.
