It is starting to get cold across most of the United States. For motorcycle riders that means we have a choice to make, either winterize the bike or gear up. The cold may slow down your riding, but it definitely doesn’t have to stop it. With the right gear, as long as your tires have traction, you can keep riding!
The most effective way I have found to stay warm is layering up and using Freeze Out Products. Not only does each layer have its own purpose in a cold-weather system, but a layer of air also gets trapped in between each of them, which creates additional insulation as it warms up.
Outer Layer: On the outside, you want a shell that will protect you from the elements. A good winter riding jacket should have a waterproof and windproof outer shell. If it has vents be sure to zip those up. You will also want to change your gloves out for winter gloves that have a gauntlet to go up over the wrist of your jacket sleeve.
Insulating/Heating Layer: This is usually your clothing such as jeans and a long sleeve shirt
Base Layer: This is the layer closest to your skin. Long johns, undershirt or my favorite Freeze Out. Don’t forget the glove and boot liners too.
Finally, you have to protect your head. The best way to keep your head and neck warm is a balaclava, a scarf or neck gaiter will also go a long way in keeping cold wind off your neck and from penetrating inside your jacket. Most balaclava’s cover the mouth but it is still important to carry lip balm to prevent your lips from becoming dry and chapped.
ONE winter jacket | TWO chaps, these are half chaps | THREE Freeze Out pant liners | FOUR lip protection I like Burt’s Bee| FIVE Balaclava face mask | SIX winter gloves | SEVEN Freeze Out glove liners | EIGHT hand warmers
If you live in an area that gets REALLY cold I would suggest heated gear. Do you ride in the cold? If so how do you stay warm?
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