Sponsored by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
As winter begins to set in and the temperatures drop, motorcycle riders face unique challenges on the road. The combination of poor weather, unpredictable road surfaces and limited visibility requires extra caution and vigilance. Plus, the right gear for your bike and body, too. For ideal winter riding safety, it pays to be prepared, be aware and be seen.
It’s fair to say that a lot of recreational riders park their bikes when the darker nights close in, and possibly for good reason. According to those that continue to ride all year round, extra care and precautions are needed to remain safe when commuting or riding recreationally through the challenging winter months. Here’s what they recommend.
Adapting your riding style to winter conditions is vital. Increase your following distance from other vehicles to allow for additional stopping time. This also allows you to see and avoid slippery manhole covers, wet road markings or debris on the road. It’s best to throttle off on your speed and approach corners and curves with even more caution than normal too, as the road surface tends to be more slippery due to rain, frost and ice accumulation.
Maintaining good traction is crucial during winter rides. So, along with having a motorcycle that’s complete with riding modes, traction-control and an anti-lock braking system (ABS), it’s important to double check your tyres, too.
Properly inflated tyres provide better stability and grip, so check your tyre pressure regularly as cold weather can cause it to drop. Additionally, verify the condition of your tyre tread as worn-out treads reduce traction, especially on wet surfaces. Change to new rubber if your tread is below 2mm.
Continuing on the ‘tired’ theme, being cold or uncomfortable can result in a lack of focus or even mild exhaustion. Make sure you’re well rested before a ride, gear up properly with layers, and plan breaks to warm up on long rides. Ensure your helmet and clothing (gloves, jacket, pants, boots) meet safety standards and provide adequate protection. In winter this means opting for gear such as heated gloves, and waterproof apparel to shield yourself from the elements. Use of bright colours and contrast can help with visibility, too.
Todd Wylie, NZTA’s principal advisor of vehicle safety, says that it’s also worth noting that impact protectors do have a shelf life, “so even if people have good gear, make sure you replace and update regularly–it could be a life-saving decision”.
Visit the Motorcycle Clothing Assessment Program (MotoCAP) website for detailed protection and comfort ratings to inform your gear choices.
As well as good gear, there are things to consider on your machine itself. Heated grips and/or hand guards help keep hands warm and improve your feel for the controls. You might consider a fairing or windshield to help keep the cold air off your body. And be sure to check over your lights and electrics – a trickle charger overnight can be a godsend on frosty mornings.
Research and plan your routes wisely, taking into account weather conditions and road maintenance schedules. Think about the intersections along your route as well. Many crashes involving motorcycles occur at intersections where one party (motorcycle or vehicle) turns right. With winter’s reduced visibility (light, rain, visor/windscreen fog) there’s more potential risk. If you can’t avoid these intersections, at least make sure you're positioning yourself on the road where other vehicles can see you and be extra cautious.
Look for well-maintained roads, as they are less likely to have icy patches, and consider avoiding routes that pass through shaded areas where ice may be more prevalent. Stay updated with weather forecasts and be prepared to alter or postpone your ride if necessary.
Be aware of road treatments such as salt or grit, which might provide better traction when icy but can be slippery themselves. They’re also corrosive to your motorcycle's components, so rinse or wash your bike after rides to remove any residue that could cause damage over time. And be proactive by applying protective coatings or lubricants on vulnerable parts to minimise the impact of contaminants.
Finally, whether you're a novice or a seasoned rider, honing your skills can significantly enhance your safety. Consider enrolling in an on-road Ride Forever course tailored to your skill level. At this time of year especially it can help with specialised winter riding tips. Let’s face it, a smart rider never stops learning or enhancing their skills.
See more at nzta.govt.nz/safety/motorcycles