Figure theres some more riders that would get out if they knew how to properly layer up for below 40 degree weather so here is my method. I ride all year, down to teens and do not suffer! I always dress the same way.

For head and neck:
A fleece neck gaiter, a fleece skull cap that will cover the ears and a face mask for below 30 degrees. Sometimes, I just pull up the neck gaiter to cover my face to just below my riding glasses. Only use a open face helmet all year.

For upper body and hands:
A thermal undershirt, a turtle neck, heated liner and a leather jacket coupled with heated gloves. I use a temperature controller so I can keep a toasty core temp. Only 2 layers under the liner so don't feel like the Michelin man to stay warm.

For legs and feet:
Thermal long underwear, regular jeans and medium weight leather chaps. For feet, heavy duty wool socks and if its below 30, I will use the disposable adhesive, toe warmer pads you can buy at Home Depot for a few bucks.

That's it and good for me, some dudes I know use heated pant liners and socks. I never have since I don't really need them and less is more to stay comfortable for me. But they might be nice if you need them.

 

Sounds like a good plan to me. Always best to not feel like the little kid from "A Christmas Story" while I'm on the back of a bike.

 

Heated gear is your friend. Get gloves and a jacket, and you will be toasty warm down into the 20's.

 

Im planning on buying some heated gear. What manufacturers should i look for?

 

I also throw on a carhart coverall over the jeans, jeans, thermals and leather jacket over it. Was good in the teens this morning. Just need heated gloves.

 

I have a heater /defroster in my truck for those cold days ..
but , they are few and far between so I wait on the 50-70's days here in the winter to ride.

If I lived where it is cold all winter , I might layer up as described.

 

Gerbing or Harley. Look on Ebay, search for motorcycle heated gear.

 

Your system is very close to mine. It works for me from the teens up. I limit the ride to 2 to 3 hours. If I go longer I will need heated socks.

Warm comfortable and enjoy the ride. Sunny days in the winter are very enjoyable rides.

 

Gerbings. I have everything they make for a motorcycle and some of the best money spent. It helps that they are located 50 miles from me. Great company to deal with. Not cheap but you get what you pay for.

 

You forgot the most important part of a nice winter ride: A touring bike.