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Motorcycles 101: Riding Safely in Winter JAN

With a little bit of preparation and maintenance, it’s possible to go riding safely in winter. In this post by Marlo Enterprises in Newark, NY, we’ll go over some tips for safe riding during these winter months.

Have a Winter Maintenance Routine

Driving a vehicle through rain, snow, or an icy road can be challenging, but the challenge can be even more significant on a motorcycle. Having a reliable winter maintenance routine for your bike can ensure that it will not let you down during your next ride through a winter wonderland. Make sure to check the following things before your next ride:

Ensure that the brakes on your bike are in good condition.
Change your tires for winter ones that offer better traction.
Change your bike’s oil filter and oil.
Keep moving parts on your motorcycle lubricated, i.e., the chain.
Refill your bike’s coolant with a high-quality one.
After every ride, hose off your bike to remove dirt and mud that can be harder to get off when it dries and hardens.

You can do many of these things yourself, more so if you know your way around your bike. Still, it’s a good idea to ask a professional to look at it and ensure everything is in working order for you to ride it safely.

A motorcycle maintenance routine is essential in keeping your bike in good shape. Products like AMSOIL’s 10W-30 Synthetic Metric Motorcycle Oil are an excellent option for your bike’s engine. Call the experts at Marlo Enterprises today at (315) 331-4642, and their oil pros will gladly assist you.

Practice Defensive Driving

When you’re out on the road, defensive driving is essential to keeping you safe. Motorcycle riders are much more vulnerable on the road, and sudden changes in road conditions can be a much bigger deal. Defensive driving can be a valuable skill set to learn to protect yourself and others on the road. Riding slower than usual, having your headlights on to let other drivers see you better, and keeping your distance between you and others are only a few skills taught in defensive driving courses.

Keep Your Eyes and Ears on the Road

Avoiding distractions when on the road is another essential factor of riding safely in winter. It’s important to remember that you need to pay more attention than ever in winter. Ice on the road and reduced visibility are only two of many obstacles you might encounter while riding in the winter. Paying attention will allow you to quickly react to any issues on the road and stay out of harm’s way.

Help your bike perform better with the best products out there. Give the oil pros at Marlo Enterprises a call at (315) 331-4642 to get more information, or visit their online store for a look at their full range of products.

Pay Attention to the Weather Forecast

Checking weather conditions before riding is another vital tip for riding safely in winter. Riding your bike exposes you to the elements much farther than riding inside a car. Remember that there isn’t much between you and weather conditions other than the gear you choose to wear. That’s why you should always check the forecast for your safety and comfort on the road. Furthermore, bad weather like rain, strong winds, or a snowstorm could put you in an unsafe situation. For your safety, avoid them as much as possible and stay alert to sudden changes in weather conditions like temperatures dropping or snowflakes falling. If possible, look for shelter, or turn around until it’s safe to ride again.

Stay Warm in Winter Riding Gear

While riding gear might be nice during warmer weather, it’s essential to have it during winter. First of all, your helmet is always necessary to keep your head protected. Wearing gloves, pants, and long sleeve shirts are all essential to keep you warm during winter. Your protective gear can also keep you safe in harsher conditions. Warm layers can be beneficial to have. Even motorcycle jackets with a thermal layer inside prevent heat from leaving your body, keeping you warm even when riding in winter. Insulated gloves also work the same way; some even have a waterproof layer to keep you dry. Having the right gear can make riding much more comfortable and safe in the winter.