Here in Idaho, winters are bitterly cold and snowy, which can make it challenging to ride your motorcycle. However, if you prepare yourself and your bike correctly, it can be done! Here are our tips on how to safely ride your motorcycle in cold weather conditions, whether you’re going on a relaxing ride out of the city or commuting to and from work.

Check the Forecast

Knowing what type of weather conditions to expect can help you to better plan out your rides. You’ll probably need to make the call whether or not you can safely ride your motorcycle every day in the wintertime, so checking to see what’s forecast can help you do that. Avoid riding if a storm is on the horizon or if high winds are blowing through higher-elevation areas.

Layer Up

Your average motorcycle riding gear isn’t going to pass muster when the temperatures drop to below freezing. Instead, you’re going to need to layer up underneath some insulated riding gear, with thermal underwear and clothing made from wicking fabrics like wool or polyester. You’ll also want to add a knitted cap under your helmet, insulated riding gloves, thick socks, and a scarf tucked into your jacket.

Maintain Your Bike

Always make sure that you’re keeping up on regular maintenance tasks with your motorcycle; this is important all year round, but it’s especially crucial during the winter months. You may want to swap out your standard tires for snow tires that can give you better traction on wet and icy roads. Top off fluids, make sure that they’re clean, and always travel with plenty of gas.

When you’re ready to shop for a new or used motorcycle in Idaho, visit our dealership in Meridian to check out our inventory. Boise Indian® Triumph® Motorcycle is proud to serve our customers in the greater Boise, Idaho area.