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James M. Roswold is licensed in Missouri Only. Heather A. Lottmann is licensed in Kansas and Missouri. Victor B. Finkelstein is licensed in Kansas and Missouri.
Motorcycle riding during the winter months may seem a bit crazy to some, but for die-hard motorcycle enthusiasts the weather simply means that it is time to break out the winter gear. If the roads become icy or snow packed, a simple ride in the winter can turn very dangerous very quickly for Kansas City motorcycle riders.
If you do plan to ride in the winter, make sure that you ride warm. There are some special considerations to make when you ride in below freezing conditions. One of the most important precautions you can take against the cold does not involve a piece of clothing or a pair of gloves, however. Even if you have eschewed its use all spring and summer, winter time is the right time to bring out the windshield. Nothing provides better protection from the wind and cold that the windshield. Deflecting the freezing wind is very important for winter riding.
Frostbite is a concern for riders. Think of the added exposure your skin is going to get if you are in below freezing temperatures at 55 miles per hour. They key is to cover up your exposed skin. Opt for a full face shield helmet in the winter time. Look for insulated face and neck wraps to help keep out the wind. Just make sure the wrap does not interfere with your ability to see.
Your regular leather gear will do nicely in the winter, but the secret to staying safe and warm is layering. Start with a thermal undershirt or pants. Layer with other clothing; remember that all it takes to correct over heating is a pit stop and removal of one of the layers. Choose breathable fabrics for the underneath layers. You want to avoid sweating, which can cause a huge problem when you hit the cold air at fast speeds.
Make sure that your hands stay covered with a good pair of gloves. Mittens may be tempting but they will greatly limit your ability to drive your bike safely. You need the dexterity snug fitting gloves will allow. Avoid liners that will make it difficult to use your hands. Waterproof gloves are a good choice. Gauntlet style gloves that go down over your sleeves really add protection against the wind. Just make sure that they fit your hands without adding restriction to your movements.
No doubt you will have your rain gear packed in the saddle bags just in case you hit inclement weather. But also consider wearing boots that are water proof even on a sunny day if the weather is frigid. You do not want to run the risk of having wet feet in arctic temperatures. Water proof boots tend to resist the cold.
What do you do if you hit unexpected snow? Rule number one is going slowly. Ease the bike down carefully. Sudden braking or gearing will throw you off and could cause a wreck. You must give yourself plenty of space. Hitting the road on your own is dangerous enough, but falling in the path of oncoming traffic in snowy road conditions is extremely dangerous. If you can pull off the road and wait out the snow, it is a very good idea. But if you must drive in snow, remember to make careful stops and to go easy on the clutch. If visibility is very low, do not take chances. Pull off the road and wait out the snow.
Ice is another animal entirely. Riding in icy conditions should be avoided as much as possible. One of the biggest dangers to you share the other drivers you share the road with in icy conditions. Get someplace safe and get off the road. Ride slow and steady over the ice, watching that you do not give too much power to the back tire if you are on an icy patch. Use the foot pegs to keep the bike stable and balanced. Ice treatments on the roadways like sand and salt pose another risk altogether. And again, get off the road and wait it out if possible.
Be sure to download a copy of the free resource guide the KC Biker Bible for more great information.
If you have been injured in a Kansas City motorcycle accident, contact the Kansas City personal injury attorneys at Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys for information about your rights. Call 888-348-2616 to schedule your free initial consultation. Watch this informative video to learn what you can expect from the consultation.
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Overland Park, KS 66210 *By Appointment Only: Heather A. Lottmann & Victor B. Finkelstein