Are you looking for some advice on how to ride your motorcycle through the winter months? If so, this article is just what you are looking for. Get ready for your winter adventure by reading this article by Lopshire Motorsports in Ottumwa.
Riding your motorcycle through winter can be a scary thing to do. However, by following some safety advice and making some small adjustments to your motorcycle, winter riding can be delightful.Along with ensuring you wear the correct gear, giving your engine maintenance can help ensure both you and your bike stay safe on the road. Learn more about this topic by reading this article that Lopshire Motorsports in Ottumwa has for you.
Wear the Correct Gear
Your gear is the only thing protecting you from the road and the weather. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that you wear the correct gear for winter riding. To ensure you stay warm on the road, dress in layers. Start with a base layer (full sleeve, full leg), and follow with your winter suit. You can add more layers in-between if you consider it necessary.
Choosing the right gloves is crucial. We recommend you to use gloves with heated grips to ensure your hands stay warm during your trip. Also, use a tightly-sealed helmet to prevent any cold air from coming in.
Be Mindful of Your Wellbeing
As the cold months approach, our body has to work harder to keep us warm. Riding a motorcycle during winter represents an extra challenge for your body. This means you will get tired faster, and your energy levels will lower.
Plan frequent rest stops and ensure to eat some healthy snacks to regain some energy. Also, make sure to stay hydrated, as you need to be alert at all times while riding.
Stay safe on the road by making sure your motorcycle is in top condition. Give your engine a synthetic oil change in Ottumwa with quality products like AMSOIL's SAE 60 Synthetic V-Twin Motorcycle Oil. For more information and advice, get in contact with a professional at Lopshire Motorsports in Ottumwa by calling (641) 680-7181 today.
Prep Your Motorcycle
Battery: During the winter months, batteries struggle due to the cold weather as it slows the chemical reaction. When you check your battery, the battery is in good condition if the reading indicates at least 12.6. Along with checking the battery, lightly grease the terminals and ensure all connections are tight.
Lights: Start with cleaning your lights, clean off any dirt and crud. Adjust the headlights, both the dip and main beam, to ensure they perform their best. If necessary, replace any light to ensure you have proper visibility on the road.
Tires: Cold tires mean limited traction. For proper performance, get heat in the tires. To do so, accelerate and decelerate quickly for a while. Be aware of the traction while doing this. Also, ensure the tires have adequate tread for winter riding.
Oil change: The best way to ensure your engine works properly, give it an oil change before you start any winter adventure. Giving your motorcycle an oil change ensures that every component of the engine works at its best.
Give your engine a synthetic oil change in Ottumwa by getting in contact with a professional at Lopshire Motorsports. Learn about amazing AMSOIL products by visiting the online store or by calling (641) 680-7181 today.
Be Mindful of the Weather
Always check the weather before leaving the house. Avoid riding when it's snowing. When it snows, you can encounter black snow as well as ice patches that can be dangerous. Also, the combination of cold weather, wind, and ice is a combination that can cause you to end up in an unwanted situation. Even if it isn't snowing outside, always analyze the road condition and evaluate accordingly.
Increase Visibility
Having good visibility is crucial when riding. While riding in the winter, increase your following distance as well as your visibility. Doing so allows you to react to a potential hazard in advance, lowering the chances of having an accident. Maintain a few car lengths of space ahead of you and procure looking further away than what you are used to.
Prepare for Winter Riding by Giving Your Engine a Synthetic Oil Change in Ottumwa