We Brits are known for being perpetually unprepared for adverse weather conditions. Waking up to a thick blanket of snow can send commuters into a frenzy and grind traffic to a halt – especially when the roads are covered in ice.
Tips for riding your bike in winter
Generally, we’d advise against riding your motorbike in extremely icy conditions, but if you absolutely must ride your motorcycle, here are a few tips to reduce the risk of an accident.
Stay warm and alert
Wrap up warm before heading out on your bike. Not only will you be more comfortable, you’ll find it easier to control your vehicle and react quickly to your surroundings. It’s crucial that you’re able to respond to any issues with other motorists by moving out the way if you see someone skidding to avoiding any patches that appear particularly icy. You want to avoid frozen puddles at all costs.
Don’t assume ABS will prevent skidding
It’s a legal requirement for all new motorcycles to be sold with an anti-braking system (ABS) as standard. The technology can make a huge difference in terms of safety, particularly when it comes to wet or icy conditions. If you have an old motorbike that doesn’t have ABS, it’s wise to take even more caution when riding on icy roads.
Saying that, if your motorbike does come with ABS, it’s still important to be cautious. Some drivers assume they’re invincible as a result of their bike’s technology, only to experience a fall when turning a corner too harshly and skidding on some ice.
Keep your bike in good condition
During winter, your tyres have to work so much harder than usual. This is especially true when the roads are snowy or icy. Check your tyres regularly to make sure they’re the right pressure and aren’t worn.
If your bike is water-cooled, change your coolant and use a winter mix of anti-freeze. Check your hoses and keep an eye out for cracks. The slightest crack could be worsened by cold weather.
Keep your distance
Leave a larger space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. This will give you much more time to react to other motorists’ behaviour and avoid any accidents.
