For every rider, whatever the profile and use of his motorcycle, it is essential to adapt his riding style and to know the recommended practices to drive in absolute safety on two wheels in winter
Although winter is not the most ideal time for motorcycling, there are many fans who don’t want to give up their passion or just the
motorcycle as a normal means of transport. It is essential for every rider, regardless of the profile and use of his motorcycle, to adapt his riding style and to know the recommended practices to drive in absolute safety on two wheels in winter.
First of all, don’t start in a hurry. Due to winter temperatures, tire rubber needs extra time to reach its optimum operating temperature. A cold rubber reduces grip on the road and greatly reduces the response of the tires driving the motorcycle. Riding at a moderate pace for the first 15 minutes of the ride allows the tires to get a
sufficient temperature that guarantees a level optimal safety and performance.
Tires with a high silica content are preferred to reduce the risk of slipping, which increases in winter. Embedded in the rubber compounds of premium tires, silica is a granular mineral that gives the tire more grip in wet and cold conditions. However, even the best silica-enriched tires cannot prevent all winter hazards. Holding attention is still essential in bright areas, often synonymous with ice.
You don’t have to limit yourself to using the same tire profile as the original either. For example, in the winter you can opt for Touring tires for a roadster. The technologies used in Touring tires provide better grip and optimal water evacuation, reducing the risk of slipping. This is just one of many examples: identify your needs and seek advice from a tire expert. Be careful, not all types of profiles are supported. This is why it is important to confirm your choice with the help of a professional: for your safety, but also to put everything in order.
Also check the wear of your tires. In most cases wear indicators are small bumps in the grooves of the tyre. When the indicator is reached, the tire must be replaced: the rubber is no longer enough to ensure safe operation, especially since the grooves are no longer deep enough to ensure correct water drainage.
In addition to the obvious safety risks (particularly in winter due to aquaplaning), driving on worn tires can result in a fine in the event of a police check. It is good to know that it is not necessary to change both tires at the same time. Logical, because the rear tire is often subjected to heavier loads than the front tire and therefore has a shorter lifespan.
Likewise, and almost most importantly, driving must be adapted to winter conditions. It is well known that roads made slippery by rain or frost require more careful driving, which should translate into a reduction in speed and smoother driving, giving you a margin to anticipate in the event of traffic jams or emergency stops. For greater certainty, it is advisable to double the safety distance. The keys to good winter driving are slowing down, anticipating and respecting safety distances.
Source: La Verdad
I am Mary Fitzgerald, a professional journalist and author of the Today Times Live. My specialty is in writing and reporting on technology-related topics. I have spent the last seven years extensively researching and understanding the field of technology so I can properly inform my readers about developments in this ever-evolving world.
