Kids maybe excited for winter, as they are ready to build their own snowman. However, this season can be a total dread for motorcyclists. It is hard to drive their bikes at these times, just as if the others would feel when they are driving their car. Aside from the difficulty of maneuvering the vehicle, bikers cannot escape the cold. It is doubled or even tripled since they are exposed to open air. If they are caught in between the blizzard, they will be most affected by its harshness simply because what they have on is only their bodily protective gear. Sometimes, that cannot be enough.
That is why during these times, it is important to learn how to drive safely. Any motorist should know that this is not the time to show-off their ability to ride or satisfy their need for speed. As much as possible, extra precautions should be taken to avoid mishaps during this time. Here are some of the few reminders:
1. Before getting into the vehicle always, check the vehicle for functionality. Ensure that the breaks are working and the tires have properly inflated.
2. Wear a special type of protective gear. Your usual summer jackets or gloves will not work. You have to put on something thicker. Look for winter motorcycle gloves, jackets other than leather and other clothing to protect your lower body when you ride.
3. As much as possible, avoid driving your motorcycles during this time. The best way is to winterize it or store it properly.
4. Know your route for the day. Since wet roads make it more difficult for you to drive, as much as possible follow one route, which you think you are more comfortable with.
5. Learn to drive slowly. It should be enough for you to control your vehicle. Do defensive driving as always. The road itself is already difficult to drive with. Therefore, you should not be seeking trouble for yourself by being too complacent especially you have the smaller vehicle.
6. Since wind is your enemy at this time, make sure you get a windshield for your motorcycle. If you are not used to it, for now you do not have any other option. If this is your primary vehicle, then you should be ready for heavy blows through this.
7. Condition yourself before you go out. You need to hydrate yourself and eat right so that your body can survive the temperature outside. It is not enough that you cover up with special jackets and winter motorcycle gloves. You should have the stamina and the energy to drive.
8. Learn to read weather forecast or even listen to the news for any updates. If the weather is expected to worsen for the day, it is either you stay indoors or make sure you know when to get back before any snow storms occur.
It is important for you to be extra cautious at this time. Accident rates are already high even without winter. Therefore, you should learn to use your better judgment on when you should be going out for a ride.
