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Winterize the rider, not the ride
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At this time of year, many motojournalists will offer advice about how to winterize your bike. This one will not. Unless you live in the northernmost regions of the country, where snowfalls can measure in feet, not inches, there will more than likely be days where you think "if only it wasn't so cold, I could be riding".
Yes, you could be. You just have to be prepared.
There are myriad ways to keep yourself , if not toasty warm, at least impervious to the elements and one of the best places to look for riding gear to do just that is your local ski shop. From insulating underwear to one piece insulated jumpsuits, skiers know how to fight the cold. I have met bikers who swear by the jumpsuits or who use "longjohns" such as Underarmor. Carhartt's also makes insulated clothing ideal for the winter rider.
One of the best ways to stay warm is layering. I have ridden in winter and, depending on the temperatures, have gone out with as many as four layers-long johns, knee hi knit socks (2 pair), flannel lined jeans and chaps. Top half is usually a cotton camisole, Underarmor or similar brand undershirt, turtleneck knit shirt, sweatshirt, lined leather jacket. Pairing the turtleneck with a balakava keeps my neck and chin warm under my full helmet (although it does tend to steam up my glasses at first).
If your bike is equipped with at least one outlet, you can find plug-in apparel, from gloves to pants, online. My advice is to get the gloves. On the coldest days, even two pair of leather gloves have failed to completely keep my hands warm.
Safety is always paramount and in winter time, this is especially true. Seeing a motorcycle in January is a novelty that no motorist is prepared for, so one must be particularly savvy about their own safety. Be sure to be seen. Keep the outerwear brightly colored. Some come with reflective material so go for that or be creative with reflective patches or tape. Leave the bike home if you need to venture out at sunrise and there's been recent snows or rain. Hitting a patch of black ice is an event many have had and none have enjoyed. Keep to well traveled roads, not just because they may be clear and dry but because many accidents between cars and bikes occur on secondary roadways. Drivers roll or drive through stop signs and fail to look when turning and certainly won't be looking for a motorcycle in the dead of winter.
Riding all year round has always been enjoyed by those lucky enough to live where it never snows. With the right equipment, we don't have to wish we could too.
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