Cold Weather Motorcycle Riding and Windchill Factor

Riding a motorcycle in cold weather is a challenge tounder your regular gloves for extra protection.
even the hardiest soul. Layers of underclothes from5. The feet can prove to be a bit more difficult but a
silky thin to medium and heavy the search for coldgood pair of Thermal Lined Socks can keep the feet
weather motorcycle clothes is dynamic. Thewarm or even consider battery operated heaters.
seasoned rider not wanting to hang up the chaps andBring an extra pair if on a longer ride just in case
admit defeat rides on.your feet start to sweat. Once socks become damp
Motorcycle Clothes For Winter Ridingthe feet may get cold making it harder to warm
Regardless, watching the weather and dressingback up.
appropriately is the answer to a safe and fun ride.6. A balaclava or leather bandanna tucked into the
Choosing the proper riding gear is the first step.jacket collar will not only block the wind and protect
Beginning with outer wear and working your way inthe neck but also create warmth from exhaled air
gives the rider room to move.captured. The chart provided by NOAA (National
Weather Service) shows what the temperature
1. Ladies or Gents choosing a riding jacket a sizeactually is (windchill factor) when taking wind speed
larger will allow room for layers. Leather or textile, ainto consideration. Paying attention to what happens
jacket with a zip in or snap liner is an extra layer notto your body when cold weather is a factor could be
usually considered.the difference between a fun ride and a miserable
2. A good pair of Motorcycle Chaps or Motorcycleride. Understanding the three stages of frostbite
Leather Over-pants will help keep the lower bodygives the motorcycle rider an edge on avoiding a
warm by blocking the cold wind from penetrating.painful and possibly life changing event. By reviewing
Layers are going to be the riders best defense.this article What Is and Causes Frostbite in Medical
3. Underclothes for Men and Women come inNews Today, the motorcyclist will have that
ultralight or silky, medium and heavy made fromadvantage.
cotton and cotton blends. Consider the temperaturesIf possible and cold weather riding is an option, create
and refer to the windchill chart to determine what willa flight plan with frequent stops to allow the body
suit your needs. Avoid too many layers to preventtemperature core to warm back up. By doing your
sweating and dampening your underclothes.homework and assembling the proper gear, cold
4. Hands and feet are probably the hardest part ofweather riding is possible. Making informed decisions
the body to keep and stay warm. For the handsallows the motorcyclist to adapt to weather and
combining a good pair of lined gloves and hand gripcontinue to ride in less than desirable conditions.
warmers will do the job even on the coldest days.Wearing proper motorcycle gear is necessary
Try wearing a pair of thin rubber gloves (surgical)anytime bikers challenge the elements.