RIDING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND

AMA members and enthusiasts weigh in on winter riding

Mention the the words “winter riding” to most motorcyclists and a majority will probably think sunny Florida, California or Arizona, places where winter is usually the best time to ride. But when we asked our readers, members and social media followers if they rode during the wintry wintertime, and to share their best winter riding tips, we were surprised how many got back to us with a “yes” and to find that many do bundle up for some two-wheel therapy even when the weather outside is frightful.

Here are some of the most helpful — and humorous! — responses:

—Joy Burgess

Cold pavement is perfectly fine for riding, even at a semi-spirited pace if you’re smooth with the throttle and brakes, and your tires are in good shape — and appropriate for decent cornering. But moisture is your enemy in cold weather, so be as aware of it as humanly possible. Not always easy to do, I realize. I once came around a corner on my old XS650 Yamaha and found the entire lane frozen from ice that had melted the previous day and re-froze overnight; I was ice skating there for a few seconds, but luckily reached the other side without crashing.

Shaun Sorensen

I live in northern New Jersey and ride on the weekends if there’s no salt and conditions allow. Electric gear makes all the difference, along with heated grips.

Roger Vreeland

Back in the 1980s my husband rode from Weeksville, N.C., to Norfolk, Va., year-round no matter what the weather was like. You don’t tell the Navy that you’re not coming in because of snow and ice. That was 58 miles each way.

Alexis Pohl

Heated grips are a must! The headlight and fork are out in front taking all the cold air and channeling it right into your hands.

Brett Hatfield

Dress warm when you’re riding in the winter and be smooth. I’ve found my way into more than one snowstorm along the way.

Mikki Hageman

Just because it’s nice where you’re starting the ride doesn’t mean it’s nice where you’re going. You never know when you will hit some weather along the way. For winter riding, and much like rain riding, avoid excessive leans, keep the bike as upright as possible through the corners, and remember

“What’s your point?”

that smooth acceleration and braking are essential. Most importantly, don’t be in a hurry.

Ian Hadley

Back in 1984 and every year thereafter I used to ride in the AMA District 2 Polar Bear. Back then, there were no electrics…just layers upon layers. At a standstill it was -5 degrees. Those were the good ’ol days!

Pete Hefele

Know the road conditions! For me, with a street bike, if there’s any chance of icy roads, my bike stays home.

Jerry Buckley

I live in eastern Washington and once went down on black ice, so I don’t ride in the winter anymore. Luckily, I was going slow around a curve and had a fairing that protected my leg once the bike was down. No fun!

Scot Bockstruck

Yes, I ride in the winter, but it never gets below 40 degrees here in Phoenix. This is prime riding weather around here. My question is, during the summer, do you ride in 120+-degree temps? I know people that put their bike up for the summer!

Justin Leonard

About 26 years ago I was riding in -8-degree weather. If you’re going to ride in the winter, warm the bike up, know the road well, and be aware of where snow melt will thaw and refreeze. While out on that ride a van pulled out in front of me. When it got to the stop sign it didn’t move, so I thought the driver was having trouble. But when I pulled up next to him, he got out, began bowing down to me and muttering, “I’m not worthy, I’m not worthy.”

Steve Gabbert

We’ve ridden more than 116,000 miles through every type of weather. But mostly we like the cold!

Cody Mosteller

I rode through Canada and the Cascade mountains a few years ago, which was spectacular in the winter. As long as you’re well rigged with warm clothes, layers and waterproofs to stop the wind chill, it’s fine. Your biggest enemy is black ice on the road surface. Ride very cautiously using gears and engine braking to slow down, and be gentle with the brakes so as not to lock up your wheels.

Joseph Barker