Does the world need yet another article on winter motorcycle riding? I say NO!

As I sat writing a post on riding your motorcycle through the winter months I began to wonder "what would it really accomplish"? For a large number of riders across the south winter riding is nothing unusual. In fact, growing up riding in Florida it was one of the best times to ride, it was cool(er). For another large number of riders across the north winterizing and storing the bike is the sensible option. No need to rub it in and add to their misery. That leaves just a fraction of riders who live the swath of the country where winters are mild enough to get out on the bike every once and a while.

Wayne rides in the winter

I live in one of those mild winter areas where putting the bike up for the season is optional. We have ice and snow sometimes, other times temperatures can rise to near 60. My fellow riders in my area are pretty comfortable dealing with temps from 40 - 60. Any nice winter day you'll see at least a few bikes out. That's not what I think of as winter riding. So long as the roads are clean of salt and smut and there are no icy spots to worry about, it's just making the best of a nice day.

Winter Riding in the Smokies

I have to argue winter riding involves freezing weather when temperatures drop into the 30's or lower. Riders who routinely go out in these conditions are few and if they do, they've already got things figured out in order to do it.

Winter Riding in the Blue Ridge

Therefore, I see no point in writing about riding your motorcycle in winter.

PS - superb long underwear, balaclava, heated gear, wind tight shell, drop tire pressure, rinse the bike after riding, keep it on a battery tender, bring mad skills to the game.

Article by Wayne Busch, America Rides Maps

We produce detailed maps of the best roads to enjoy on your motorcycle travels in the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. Get the maps at America Rides Maps.com