Depending on where you live and the weather that day, you may want to continue riding in colder weather. Here are a few considerations for those hearty souls.
- Shorter daylight hours can catch you unprepared. Temperatures decrease fast when the sun goes down. Plan your rides with this in mind.
- Traction is compromised in colder temperatures. You can consider dropping tire pressures a little to generate some heat in the tires. Check the manufacturers recommended pressure range and tend toward the lower pressure.
- Watch for salt and sand in the corners and at intersections.
- The salt brine they spread on the roads can be super slick. It will compromise your traction stopping, accelerating and turning.
- Dress for the worst case. Layers make sense. It’s better to be dressed to warm than too cold.
- The sun is low in the sky or not in the sky at all. Wear hi-vis clothing. Use your high beam during the day. Driving lights help visibility.
- Heated grips, gloves, vests, and chaps/pants are absolutely game changers. You won’t believe how comfortable you can be. No more teeth chattering, just smiling!
- Make sure your bike is clean and full of gas on the way home. You never know if it will be your last ride of the season.