By MIKE Phillips |
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WINTER is here . Riding in
WINTER cold weather presents its own set of unique challenges and considerations . Riding in cold weather can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous if unprepared . There are two things to prepare for cold weather : the bike and yourself . Make sure you warm the bike up enough . Let the engine idle for several minutes to warm the motor and get the oil flowing through the entire engine . Check the tire pressure . Tires lose pressure as the temperature gets colder . Recheck the pressure after the tires are warmed up . A tire that starts with low pressure may gain pressure as it warms up .
Cold tires have less traction than warm tires . I warm the tires with a slow , easy weave in my lane . I simulate weaving around a short cone pattern . This helps warm the tires , producing a better grip on the road . It also helps to warm me up . Bald tires will have almost no traction in cold , wet , or icy conditions . You will be surprised how well tires grip in poor conditions if they have appropriate tread and air pressure . When the temperature gets below freezing , I am always wary of standing water on the road that could cause a patch of ice , even when the weather is dry .
The Louisiana Department of Public Safety produced a set of tips for riding on cold , wet , icy , or slippery surfaces .
β’ Slow down ( especially before a curve ) to stay within your skill
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level .
β’ Expect slippery roads around curves . Ride slower than you think you need .
β’ Avoid abrupt lane or speed changes .
β’ Keep all steering inputs smooth .
β’ Apply the brakes gradually and gently . The front brake is still the most effective brake on slippery roads if it is applied correctly .
β’ The center lane can be hazardous when it is raining due to oil on the road . Ride in the tire tracks of other cars .
β’ Patches of ice tend to develop in low or shaded areas and on bridges and overpasses . Stay off roads covered with ice and snow . If you cannot see the road surface , you do not know what you are riding over .
β’ Eyesight is limited during rainy , snowy , or overcast days . Wear highly visible clothes to increase your ability to be seen by other drivers . Keep your eye protection clean , whether it is a windshield , face shield , or glasses .
β’ Allow additional space and time between vehicles and when stopping and starting .
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