Winter and Motorcycling: How to Ride Safely on Snow and Slippery Roads

When the thermometer starts flirting with freezing temperatures, hopping on your bike becomes a real challenge. Bone-chilling cold, sneaky patches of black ice, treacherous snow… Winter doesn’t play nice with motorcyclists. But there’s no way you’re letting your ride gather dust in the garage! With a bit of preparation and the right gear, you can keep racking up the miles, even in the dead of winter. So, are you ready to defy the frigid season?

Winter Hazards: Hidden Traps

Winter isn’t just about the cold. It’s also about tricky roads. As soon as temperatures drop below freezing, watch out for black ice, which loves to lurk in unexpected places: on bridges, freeway ramps, and areas exposed to the wind. These infamous “cold spots” hold their frost much longer than the rest of the road. Add slippery road markings to the mix, and you’ve got a perfect scenario to test your reflexes.

And on the main roads frequently swept by the wind? Not much better! Traction can change in the blink of an eye. So, stay alert, keep a sharp eye, and drive as smoothly as a well-played guitar riff.

Winter Riding: A Pro’s Technique

Riding your bike in winter is an art. No gunning the throttle or jamming the brakes here. It’s all about finesse. Telmo, a seasoned veteran on the handlebars, puts it well: “I prefer using the rear brake to maintain control and avoid unpleasant surprises.” Riding on snow is akin to ice drifting: every move needs precision.

Motorcyclist tip: ride in the tire tracks left by cars. There’s usually less snow there, improving your grip. But watch out, white lines and other road markings are like soap under your tires. And to maximize traction, consider slightly deflating your tires or, even better, switch to winter tires. Yes, it costs a bit more, but it could save you from sliding into a ditch.

Watch Out for Other Road Users

In winter, it’s not just the elements challenging you. Other vehicles can be troublemakers too. For instance, trucks carry slabs of ice on their tarps that can break off and fly straight at you. Not to mention the chunks of compacted snow falling off car wheels like projectiles!

So, keep your distance. No tailgating cars or trucks. A little space can make all the difference when an ice chunk decides to go airborne.

Gear: Your Best Ally Against the Cold

For winter rides, it’s best to dress like a motorcyclist from the Arctic. Thermal underwear, a warm jacket, and insulated gloves make up the winning trio. Waterproof boots and technical socks also deserve a place in your anti-cold arsenal. Want to step it up a notch? Heated grips and gloves transform your frigid journeys into nearly comfortable experiences.

For long-haul riders, consider handlebar muffs to protect your hands and a wind deflector to keep cold air at bay. Add a tall windshield and you’re all set to face the chilling winds without flinching.

Winter Tires: The Luxury That Can Save Your Hide

If you ride a lot in winter, investing in snow tires isn’t just a luxury. With their silica-enriched compound, they remain supple even in freezing temperatures. Below 45°F, they offer superior traction compared to regular tires. Sure, they cost a bit more—20 to 25% more expensive—but between solid grip and unexpected slips, the choice is clear.

That said, if the road is buried under a thick layer of snow, it might be wise to play it safe and leave the bike at home. Wiping out in the snow is never fun.

Is It Sometimes Better to Park the Bike?

Let’s be honest: there are days when it’s better to leave your trusty steed in the garage. When the temperature plunges below 23°F, riding becomes a real challenge, even for the daring. Hypothermia, widespread black ice… Sometimes, it’s best to say stop and opt for another mode of transport. After all, it’s better to miss a ride than damage your bike or, worse, yourself.