7 Harley-Davidsons Out in the Snow with Helpful Winter Driving Tips
Don't let the weather make you feel trapped in your home or car. With these tips, you can enjoy the road all year long with your trusty Harley-Davidson.
1. Layer the Gear
Buying the right protective gear for everyday traffic is what any sensible owner would do. However, accounting for going out in the winter months will take some modification and one keyword to enjoy your Harley-Davidson on the road: layering. For the most comfortable base layering, buy performance fabrics that allow your skin to breath while wicking away moisture that would turn to cold perspiration on your body. You can find these types of clothing from brands such as UnderArmour and Nike. Remember to buy items that overlap when possible so that you can keep warmth inside and the cold out where it belongs.
>>Join the conversation about helpful winter driving tips right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
2. Winter Bike Prep
Winter bike prep is just a handful of modifications you can do for your Harley that will make riding a lot more enjoyable for you. These things are element protections such as a bigger windscreen, handguards, and modified handguards to keep the chilly wind off your legs. Caution will be needed with the modified handguards used to shield legs, as some have remarked the guards tearing away under spirited driving. There are aftermarket heated grips available if you'd like to grab a pair to keep your mitts toasty while out on the road. Lastly, if your bike happens to be water-cooled, then take the time to make sure the antifreeze is fresh and mixed properly.
>>Join the conversation about helpful winter driving tips right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
3. Tire Temp
Any enthusiast worth their salt knows that cold weather means limited traction. Some riders will sway side-to-side as a way to get heat into the tires more quickly. However, another way is to go hard at the gas and hard on the brakes in succession. Take stock of the road conditions before attempting either one of these methods so as not to wipe out. Check your tire tread depth and pressure also to make sure the set you have can stand up to whatever the elements may throw at it.
>>Join the conversation about helpful winter driving tips right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
4. Road Scanning
Hazards of winter driving extend beyond the dangers of black ice (if it looks icy, then it's too dicey). Watch the roads for other things such as salt, which can decrease traction. A way to spot if a road has been recently salted is to peek over at the side of it. If the ground there has a crystal-like appearance then slow down and see if you can get around it.
>>Join the conversation about helpful winter driving tips right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
5. Distance and Visibility
There are two things you'll want to keep in mind while cruising out on the road: visibility and distance. Remembering to drive slower will not only help to stop if you need to quickly catch direction but will give you more time to react to anything in your path. If you are a more experienced rider and feel comfortable going faster, you should still keep a wide berth of distance between you and the vehicle ahead just in case.
>>Join the conversation about helpful winter driving tips right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
6. Know Who Will Tow
Accidents happen, it's just the way of the world but you should be prepared. If you own a car then chances are you are a member of AAA roadside service. For motorcycle owners, the same is true for AMA Roadside Assistance. Calling the AMA in the case of an accident will ensure someone coming out to you that is familiar with care and safe transport for your motorcycle. While calling the average tow service could result in your bike laying side up atop a flatbed.
>>Join the conversation about helpful winter driving tips right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
7. If Snow Starts Falling It's Home You Should Be Calling
If snow starts falling then your priority needs to be getting home as fast as possible. Check the weather conditions daily and hourly if you suspect any bad weather on the brink. If you primarily drive your bike then invest in studded tires and keep yourself as safe as possible.
>>Join the conversation about helpful winter driving tips right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
For help fixing and maintaining your touring bike, Softail, Dyna, Sportster or other Harley, click over to the How-To section here in HDForums.com.
