New York Chapter "W"

Gold Wing Road Riders Association

Rochester, NY

Rider Education Information by Gary Mandak

Riding Educator, New York Chapter "W"

Cold Weather Dress, or Feel the Duress

It is usually the case, you put the bike away and there are times that we get the chance to ride our bikes in late fall or winter. If you are one of those so inclined, do you have the right gear to ride in colder weather? The best way to stay warm is to use the layered method. When you do this, you can remove or add to your riding gear as the weather changes. This will prevent hypothermia, which is a dangerous situation on a motorcycle.

Inner layer

Clothing that will allow your body to breathe is necessary for remaining warm. Synthetic or wicking type of materials allows your body to remove sweat and not keep it on your inner clothing. If you use cotton type material when you sweat, you will stay wet and you will be cold. This inner layer material may be polyester, silk, or other material. Other specific clothing may be found in outdoor, hunting, bicycle or ski shops. Similar types of material can be purchased in discount stores and serve the same function. If you are daring manly man, women's panty hose is ideal for your legs. This will also serve to cover your feet as well. Just don't mention it at a V- twin cruiser type rally.

Middle Layer

This can be a wool, fleece or acrylic type material that will keep you warm. This should be worn as the middle layer of your ensemble. Use this type of material for both your chest and legs. If you keep your core body (chest area) warm, you will stay warm for a longer period of time. This also can be used for the head and hands and feet.

Outer Layer

This can be any material that will resist wind. Leather or textile materials are the materials of choice for motorcyclists. Keep in mind if you use leather, you may need rain gear if you get caught in the rain. Make sure you get rain gear that will breathe otherwise you will feel like you are in a sauna. Again, once you become wet, you will be cold.

When you go out in colder weather, it is best to layer your clothing using the above method as opposed to one thick layer. Matching your amount of clothing to your riding conditions will show you are the rider of reason to match all the seasons.

Practice Safe Riding

Gary Mandak

Chapter "W" Educator