As bikers, it's sad to think that during those winter months we often don't get to ride our bikes as often as we'd like due to weather conditions. Particularly for new riders, the risk of injury increases if we don't take proper safety precautions. The great thing is that there are some simple things you can do to stay safe out there on the open roads, not letting the weather be a reason for you not to enjoy this epic pastime. Read more: https://starinsure.co.nz/sis/news/8-essential-tips-for-winter-motorcycle-riding/

1. 8 essential tips for
winter motorcycle
riding.

2. 1
Before you get on your bike, check the temperature and the weather
forecast. All cold weather is not the same, and it’s important to know
your limits. We personally don’t like to ride at temperatures below
freezing, because the wind chill makes riding uncomfortable at this
point, even with proper winter gear.
Always check the weather

3. Winter motorcycle riding does not mean riding on ice and snow.
Nothing on two wheels is safe on black ice, and there is no way to
make it safe. Keep in mind, though, that winter conditions offer
more slipping hazards than just ice. Snow, slush, pooled water, road
salt, and sand are all dangerous.
Don’t ride on slippery surfaces
2

4. Sediment on the road is more dangerous in winter than during warm
weather for the same reason that motorcycles are more likely to slip
even on clean asphalt during winter. As your tyres move over the
road, they warm up and soften slightly, giving them a much better
grip on the road.
Adjust your braking distance
3

5. Even high quality gear won’t keep out the cold when temperatures
sink below 10 degrees or so. Not only is that very uncomfortable for
your hands, it’s also dangerous. Freezing cold hands are difficult to
move quickly and smoothly, which can impact how well you can
handle your bike in a critical situation.
Buy heated gear
4

6. If you’re already on the road, or otherwise forced to ride in these
kinds of conditions, don’t panic. Instead, turn off the main road.
Smaller roads with less traffic and lower speed limits greatly reduce
the risk of any accidents, and allow you to take your time in
selecting your route outside of the press of cars all around.
Don’t panic in snow or sleet
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7. Winter riding is messy. Dirt and grime build up quickly, and corrosive
road salt can damage your motorcycle, most importantly the brakes,
if it isn’t washed regularly. Grit and salt also has a tendency to get
into even the smallest nooks and crannies, which is why it’s also
important to clean and lubricate the chain more often than usual.
Maintain your motorcycle
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8. Visibility is a major problem in wintertime, both because of the weather, &
the cold temperatures. Drivers often drive with partially fogged
windshields, and motorcyclists visors are similarly much more vulnerable
to misting in cold weather. To make sure that you can see properly,
consider using an anti-misting spray on your visor, or a pinlock visor insert.
Improve visibility for yourself
and other motorists
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9. Good insurance is always important for a motorcyclist, but it becomes
even more critical in winter. Even if you’re well prepared, the odds of having
some kind of accident are heightened during the wintertime. For a careful
rider, this often doesn’t mean having a serious accident, but rather slipping
& accidentally laying down the bike while pulling out of your driveway.
Get good insurance
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10. Ultimate protection.
Wheel to wheel.
Helmet to boots.