THE RIDER'S READ

Can you ride your motorcycle in the winter / early spring, how early is too early?!

Winters are long in Canada, but for a Canadian biker… they are much, much longer. So when that first nice day comes by in march you want to say f@$k the cold and ride! But there seem to be two groups of riders when it comes to how early you can put your bike on the road.

We have all seen that one person on Facebook in late February posting something along the lines of “First ride this year!” or “It was a chilly one!”. The comments on these posts seem to be split between people who think it is too early and people who wish they were able to get out as well. So what are the main reasons half of us think it is a huge no, no to take your bike out before the roads have been cleaned?

1. Canadian winters are hard on our roads!

We can all agree that when winter finally takes a hike, it leaves behind a serious mess, including sand, salt, dirt and pot holes. Some argue that not only are these dangerous road conditions but it will leave your bike looking like a mud buggy instead of a motorcycle. On top of that, the ground temperature can make it easy for standing water to freeze quickly, making it even more dangerous to ride. Most cities do not get the street sweepers out until early or mid April to clean up the roads and by this time the sun has been shining and the open road has been calling your name for weeks.

2. “Cagers be crazy…”

They teach riders to always be on the defense, to ride like all other vehicles on the road are out to get yah. We are told to wear bright colours, and stay in a spot where we can be seen. This way of riding should be taken even more seriously in the springtime. People haven’t seen motorcycles out in months, each spring we need to be reintroduced to drivers as if we’ve never been on the roads before. It’s like an episode of game of thrones out there for riders, your battling salt and sand while swerving for potholes that look like a drop off the earth, then you also have Carol in the minivan not checking her blind spot while she puts her lipstick on.

So you didn’t buy a motorcycle just to sit in the garage and look pretty…

The other half of the debate believe its okay to get out on the road no matter what time of year it is. Most of these riders are confident in their abilities and have been riding for years. They know the dangers of the roads and ride with care each time they go out. If you are considering taking your bike out before the roads are entirely cleaned up, here are a few tips from some experienced spring road warriors!

1. Safety first, always.

No matter the season, never forget to check your tire pressures. You only have two tires so ensure they are both at the correct pressure, which can be found on the wall of your tires. The colder weather changes how your tires grip the road, so always be aware of that change as well. Check your lights, make sure all your signals and high beam is working. Some riders suggest riding with your high beam on even in the daylight for extra visibility. Although not all riders are interested in wearing bright clothing when we ride, throwing on something eye-catching could save your life while people get accustomed to us being back on the roads again.

2. Road conditions are different.

Most of us aren’t planning 300 km road trips in the dead of February, majority just want to get out and let the bike run for a bit, maybe spend some time washing it after. If you do get out for a quick rip around town, be aware of the change in road conditions. Sand and salt can cause sliding, so be aware of what is ahead of you, take it easy and go slow. Waiting for a couple good rains to wash off most of the roads helps, and a dry road is always preferred. Most of us like a good open road anyways, but typically roads outside of town are a little more clean and clear of debris.

3. She’s chilly out there.

We live in Canada, we know its cold, but did you know there are other options besides leather to keep you warm? Some riders install heated grips on there bike, and tend to use them in spring and fall or even at night! Adding a full face helmet and heated vest to your riding arsenal will keep you safe and warm in the colder riding seasons as well.

To say that Canada has a ‘riding season’ is a misnomer. Ride when ever you feel you are capable of handling your motorcycle safely and within your skill level. If you never underestimate how dangerous the roads can be, educate yourself on the differences in riding seasons and arm yourself with the right gear, you should be able to enjoy your motorcycle through the entire year.

Let me know what you think below!

Ride safe, road warriors!