Warm Weather Riding

Summer is a season for relaxation, and for some there’s nothing more relaxing than suiting up in a leather jacket, hopping in the saddle of their motorcycle, and blazing a trail down a sunbaked freeway toward adventure. But riding in summertime heat can be a hazard unto itself, making it much more likely a rider could suffer dehydration, heat stroke, or just be uncomfortable in their standard riding gear.

At Peak Powersports, we want our customers to get the best out of the sunny weather while it’s here. Summertime rides are some of the best, and getting ahead of the heat will allow you to have rides filled with fun, sun, and none of the hazards that go with it.

In that spirit, we’ve put together this short guide with some tips and tricks to beating the summer heat. Read on for more information or head into our Sheridan, Wyoming showroom for a look at our stock of great new and used motorcycles.

Dress for the Heat

We’re used to shedding layers when the sun gets too oppressive, but that’s no good on a motorcycle. Without a suitable jacket, boots, and other riding apparel you risk serious injury and even just an uncomfortable ride regardless. An insulated jacket can help reduce overheating and encourage airflow, and if you stick to cooler colors that reflect more light then you can keep a bit cooler. You can also soak a bandana in cold water and wrap it around your neck or forehead for some additional cooling. You’ll also want UV protection, both in the form of sunscreen on exposed skin and a UV protected visor or sunglasses worn under your helmet.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can hit without much warning if you’re not careful about replacing lost fluids on a hot day. Riders who go too long without water will start to feel fuzzy headed and have a hard time keeping their focus, which can then turn into a dangerous accident. Keep some water bottles in your pack to drink throughout your trip.

If you find yourself going through several bottles at a time, or you’re riding often enough to roll your eyes at wasting all that plastic, consider investing in a wearable hydration system for hands-free hydration from a backpack or similar piece of apparel. Along with lost water due to sweat, your body also loses other important chemical compounds and elements. That’s right: electrolytes! Bring along some snacks or a sports drink that can supplement a longer warm weather ride with some vitamins and minerals.

Use Your Head

Sometimes all the protection you need is a bit of common sense. That means avoiding rides during the hottest parts of the day or skipping rides on intensely hot days entirely. Stop frequently when riding in the heat to allow both you and your bike time to cool off. A hot bike means a hot rider, so giving your motorcycle a well-deserved rest can help you both out. Use your breaks to check out the scenery around you, rest in the shade and drink water. If your bike’s windscreen is adjustable, you can put it down to get more ventilation.

Warm weather is too appealing to pass up, and all it takes is a few of these tips to ensure your ride will be full of thrill-injected fun. If you need more help preparing for changing weather conditions with some riding gear, or you’re just interested in checking out our stock of new and used motorcycles, head into Peak Powersports in Sheridan, Wyoming. Come in today and let our staff of courteous professionals answer all your questions and help you find the motorcycle of your dreams.