Staying Warm on Your Motorcycle

Most bikers hang up their helmets when the temperature drops, but the dedicated crowd rides on. They say the key is staying warm and toasty.

The temperature feels colder when you are piercing through the air at high speeds, but heated motorcycle accessories and the right apparel can help keep you comfortable during cooler rides. Try these tactics to stay warm during the colder months!

Full-Face Helmet

For the colder months, a full-face helmet may be your best friend. The enclosed design helps prevent wind and rain from hitting your face. The best options may fit tight to provide proper insulation.

Balaclava

Also known as a ski mask, this garment keeps heat under your helmet to keep your head, face and neck warmer. Look for a balaclava made of wool, (one of the best fabrics for insulation) but also one that is specifically designed to go under a helmet (for safety).

Neck Sock

As you layer up the rest of your body, remember to keep your neck warm. Body heat will escape through any inch of skin left uncovered, so bundle up with a neck sock under your helmet/jacket.

Socks

Socks are super important. Toes, like fingers, are one of the first parts of your body to feel the cold. Invest in thick wool socks to trap in the heat!

Heated Grips

Rider's hands are subject to extreme cold. Sitting out front in the direct wind stream, fingers are often the first part of your body to show symptoms of cold-related issues. Heated grips are a reliable source of hand warmth, no matter the weather.

Waterproof Gloves

Heated grips are great for the cold, but they won't help much in wet weather. Rain or spray from slush can soak your gloves, making them useless. Try gloves that are wool-lined with a weatherproof exterior to help keep your hands warm and dry.

Rain Suit

Even if it is not raining, some rain suits help block the wind to keep you warm. It's a good idea to keep a rain suit under your seat in case of emergencies. Rain or cold weather can pop up unexpectedly, especially during a long road trip.

Newspaper

Speaking of unexpected weather … if you find yourself riding in the unanticipated cold with no gear, stop somewhere to pick up a newspaper. Put the paper under your jacket and pants to create a barrier from the wind. It's a DIY trick and it won't be perfect, but every little bit helps when you're in a pinch.

Heated Gear

Jackets and gloves can come equipped with internal heating systems. If you get cold easily, this may be a good option for you. These items use power from the bike, so make sure your engine has enough power to handle any accessories.

Heated Seats

It is important to keep your body temperature at 98.6 degrees. If it falls below 95 degrees, you are at risk of hypothermia and can experience symptoms such as slow breathing, confusion and slurred or mumbled speech.¹ One way to help prevent this is to warm your core with a heated seat — which can be added to your current bike or purchased in a new bike if you are looking to upgrade.

In addition to having the proper gear, make sure to eat before you head out.² Both food and fluids play a huge role in fueling your body and keeping you warm. You may not feel thirsty while riding in cold weather, but you can still lose fluids through your sweat and when you breath. If you ever feel too cold during your ride, get off the road and find somewhere warm to rest.

Now that you have these tips, get the most out of your bike with year-round riding! Just remember to be safe and, most importantly, have fun.

1. https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/staysafe/hypothermia.html
2. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000866.htm

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