By: by Jackie Vaughan
Winter Warmups
We’re lucky that we have a virtual year-round riding season. However, when the mercury hides in the bottom of the little red bulb, we have to make some changes in our riding style.
One of the big enemies of riders is hypothermia. Riding at highway speeds in cool or cold weather can deplete a rider’s body heat and leave him numb and fuzzy-headed before he realizes what has happened.
Even when the temperature is in the 60’s, the wind chill factor at speeds over 40 miles per hour is in the low 30’s. Riders often misjudge how cold the ride will be because they are freshly out of a warm house and standing still in the warm sunshine. At temperatures below 70°, they should dress in multiple layers, adding and subtracting as necessary. Not only do multiple layers provide versatility, they also create insulated pockets of warm air. While it is common for riders to put on sweatshirts and jackets, the lower body is often ignored.
Thermal underwear and chaps keep feet and knees flexible and ready to function. Thermal socks and ski-sock liners help keep toes cozy. Many ski shops offer an excellent variety in various weights. The old gray variety with the red toes will do the job also. A well-designed winter riding suit made especially for motorcycling is a bulky but very welcome addition to any rider’s wardrobe.
Lightweight riding gloves do little to protect from the cold, and supple hands are critical to quick responses to unexpected hazards. Ski gloves or winter riding gloves with gauntlet flares help keep hands toasty. Some riders add ski glove liners, or use three-finger mittens for added warmth. They should be aware, however, that any added bulk may make operating the controls more awkward.
A face shield is essential, and it should be firmly snapped in place. Those wearing three-quarter helmets may want to consider a ski mask or muffler to keep the chin and throat warm. There are excellent masks which cover the throat, mouth, and nose with a material similar to a lightweight wetsuit, yet allow the rider to breathe and speak comfortably. Some dealerships may have them, but they are more commonly found at sporting goods stores, which offer a line of ski wear.
A luxurious, although expensive, way to keep warm is with an electric suit, gloves, socks, and even heated grips. They draw little current, but offer a lot of overall warmth.
Co-riders should be afforded the same clothing or more, since they often don’t get the same protection from the fairing that the rider does.
There’s a whole different world of riding in the winter, and we can enjoy it to its fullest if we dress properly.
