Summer Riding Tips

There are 3 key principles when it comes to summer riding: hydration, sun burn prevention and evaporative cooling.

1. Hydration: Keep well hydrated. Always carry a water bottle full of cold water, and stop at least once an hour for a cold drink.
2. Sun burn prevention: Apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Unless you are looking to sport a "biker" tan, protect all exposed skin, especially on the backs of hands, wrists and the back of your neck.
3. Evaporative cooling: Wear motorcycle gear specially designed to be protective, but well ventilated -- and combine that with light layers underneath.

Here are a few quick tips for summer motorcycle riding:

• Watch very carefully for signs of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke.
• Bring more water than you think you’ll need.
• Include stops on your route where you can cool off
• Dress properly and keep your skin covered.
• Wear a cooling vest.
• Wear a reversed baseball cap with the bill as a neck shade.
• Ride with the sleeve zips open and funnel the wind up your arms.?
• Cover your seat with a white towel when you are not on your bike.
• Cover black gasoline tanks with a towel as well.
• Prevent blisters by taking off your wristwatch.
• Park in the shade or in a covered parking structure.
• Try to stay off of oily patches on the road. They can be as slick and hot as a pancake griddle on hot pavement.
• Carry some oil just in case the bike overheats.

Ride early and late in the day ... stay inside if you can, in the midday sun.

Happy & Safe Summer Riding!