Tips for riding a motorcycle in the snow

Some bikers prefer to store their motorcycle throughout the winter. There is a simple reason for this: with snow and ice, the risk of falling increases tenfold. Does this mean that you should do the same? Not necessary. Winter vehicles and two-wheelers can go hand in hand if certain precautions are followed. And, of course, by adapting your driving style not only to the ambient temperature, but, above all, to new circumstances.

You don't want to lock your two-wheeled vehicle for several months due to the climate? Discover all our tips for riding a motorcycle in the snow.

Riding a motorcycle in the snow: gear up!

The first thing you need to do if you decide to ride a motorcycle in winter is to protect yourself from the cold. Remember, you won't have a car body or air conditioning to keep you warm. On the way, you will directly encounter bad weather and high temperatures. If you don't want to freeze to death as a result, you need to arm yourself.

The good news is that you shouldn't be hard-pressed to find the right equipment! You will find on the market all equipment and accessories specially designed for this occasion: closed helmet, leather jacket, reinforced motorcycle jacket, thick gloves, lined trousers, lined boots, neck warmer, etc.

Riding a motorcycle in the snow: prepare your motorcycle

You should also know that summer driving and winter driving are not the same thing. And to minimize the risk of an accident, you need to make sure your bike can handle these major changes with every change of season.

Maintenance before riding a motorcycle in the snow

Before riding a two-wheeled vehicle, first check if you are performing routine maintenance. Check if the oil change has been carried out for a long time or if it needs to be done. When cold, engine oil can actually freeze; especially if it is not suitable for low temperatures.

So do not hesitate to invest in special low temperature oil as soon as the first signs of winter appear. And this, even if it is necessary to carry out the emptying long before the expected date.

Checks to be done

The beginning of winter will also be a reason to overhaul your motorcycle. It is more than vital for you and your motorcycle that everything installed on it is in good working order. Also take the time to check the brakes, headlights, battery, gears, brake fluid, etc. If any of these parts are not working well, fix them first.

Particularly with regard to tires, know that you do not need to replace them. on winter tires. However, if you really need to ride in snow, ice or frost, this is still recommended. Otherwise, in the event of an accident, the insurance may refuse to reimburse you.

How to ride a motorcycle in the snow?

Eh yes! You must also adapt your driving style to the environment. Because it's completely different! This is a real problem both in terms of driving and braking. This is why, to help bikers better tackle the slippery road that awaits them, many advanced courses specifically designed for winter driving are now offered in France.

Adapting the riding style and use of the motorcycle will not only minimize the risk of an accident, but will also help protect the car from premature wear. Here are some rules to follow:

At boot time, do not put the car in first gear. If you are indeed sending too much power to the rear wheel, and on slippery roads, this is for sure dodging. To avoid this, start in a second.

On my way, don't play too much at speed. If you want to drive safely in winter, ditch the idea of ​​using full throttle because you don't have much of a chance to do so. Drive rather slowly, knowing that the road is especially slippery. And always, to avoid falling, try not to roll in the snow as much as possible. Always use snow-cleared lanes, even those that leave wheel marks on vehicles in front of you. And very importantly, always keep your feet away from the stirrups so that you can quickly regain your balance before possible stagnation.

On the bends, always drive close to the center line. Patches of ice form on the side of the road. Riding close to the line will help you avoid them.