Motorcycle Riding in the Michigan Winter

When temperatures start dropping, you'll need to get your warmer riding gear. When you're going down the highway or on a back road, even 50 degrees feels cold with the wind in your face. Layering is the game's name, and more layers mean more sweat. That's why ensuring your base layer is designed to wick moisture away is essential. Polyester blends wick moisture exceptionally well and give you a solid base layer to build on. Your middle layer should be a heavy zip-up or sweater. This helps to trap heat by adding a layer of insulation. Your outer layer should be a heavy-duty motorcycle jacket. If the weather is freezing, you may consider the heated gear that can provide even better protection against the cold. Consider a full-face helmet with an anti-fog visor or an electric defrost function to ensure you can always see the road.

Most Motorcycles are set up for three-season riding and therefore have fluids and batteries suited to warmer weather. Starting a bike in the winter can be challenging as oil is thicker and batteries don't function well. If your motorcycle struggles to start in cold weather, you may need to replace the battery with one better suited to cold starts. Similarly, check what oil is in the bike, and talk to your mechanic about whether you need thinner engine oil or any other changes for the winter.

Riding in the winter is exhilarating, and if you've never done it before, it's unlike any riding you've experienced. Still, to stay safe, you need to take your time. Traction is key to riding, and in the winter, roads can be slick, so it's best to make sure your tires have enough air and traction and that the rest of the engine is fully functional. Be sure to accelerate gently, and make sure you avoid grabbing the brakes too suddenly. Take corners a little bit slower than you think you need to and leave more space between you and other vehicles as if you were driving in the rain. If it snows while you're on your motorcycle, try to get off the road as soon as possible.

If you want to learn more about motorcycling year-round, please head to Dick Scott's Freedom Powersports. We are a family-owned business that has proudly served the Detroit area and Michigan for over 40 years. We carry a great selection of motorcycles, electric bikes, and boards for sale. Or, if you want to trick out your bike to prepare it for winter, check out our service department. Or, if you want to customize or add some extra flavor, meet with our parts department.