Summer Motorcycle Riding Tips

Without a doubt, riding a motorcycle in summer is an exciting experience. The gorgeous weather is perfect for soaking in the beauty of a clear, blue sky and the warm sun that feels much better than bitterly cold winter. Also, there’s less chance of getting caught in the rain. It's no surprise that so many motorists hit the road in summer. However, along with all the fun of summer riding, there are some risks associated with rising temperatures. While many people underestimate the hazards, it’s important that riders remain aware of the dangers of excessive heat exposure. You should do everything you can to keep yourself safe and hydrated while you ride.

We gathered up the top tips for safe summer riding below. If you need any repairs before you hit the road, bring your motorcycle to the service department at Holzhauer Pro Motorsports in Nashville, Illinois. We proudly serve those in St. Louis, Missouri, and Carbondale, Illinois.

Essential Summer Riding Gear

While you might be tempted to wear short sleeves when temperatures are soaring, we recommend you to wear your usual motorcycle outfit of a jacket and long pants with boots and gloves. Protecting your skin from the hot air and wearing clothes that are well-ventilated will actually help you to stay cooler as compared to a tank top and shorts. Also, it’s important that you protect yourself as much as you can from road rash if you skid out, so don’t avoid the jacket just because it’s hot outside. 

You can get ventilated or mesh gear that will help increase the transfer of heat between your body and the surrounding air. Gear that prevents wind from hitting you will be extremely helpful as at higher temperatures; wind heats you up instead of cooling you down. Make sure you’re wearing gloves and riding boots for grip and traction as well as protection from the hot pavement.

Another handy accessory for riding motorcycles in the heat is a bandana. You can wear it on your forehead and it'll catch sweat before it drips into your eyes. Another use is to moisten it and tie around your neck for a soothing sensation. You will also want to apply sunscreen to anywhere your skin is exposed and wear sunglasses or a tinted visor to keep ultraviolet rays out of your eyes and prevent sun glare from blinding you.

Keep Yourself Hydrated

While you’re on the road, you should be drinking plenty of water to keep yourself cool and hydrated. Adding a sports drink or a snack will help to replenish vital electrolytes. If you want to drink water while you ride, a portable hydration backpack can help with this. Fill it with ice and water before you start out and refill it every time you stop for gas. Carrying extra water in a jug in your storage compartment is good. Make sure you have got plenty of drinking water, especially on a long-distance trip. Don’t drink alcohol or caffeine before or during your ride. Sugary drinks won’t help you much, either. Water is the best drink you can have while you’re on the road.

Avoid Heat Stroke

If you start to lose focus and feel like you’re falling asleep, that’s a sign of heat exhaustion. You need to give yourself enough breaks in the shade or at a cool place to allow your body and mind to recover from excessive heat exposure so you can stay focused on your ride. Stop and rest well if you feel tired. It’s better to take frequent breaks in the shade and to ride less in a day, rather than pushing yourself past your limit and doing some serious damage to your health in the process.

Once you start to feel the effects of heat exhaustion, you’re already in trouble, and it will quickly progress to heat stroke if you aren’t careful. Heat exhaustion is a form of mild shock, which causes fatigue, nausea, flushed or pale skin, dizziness, and excessive sweating. If it is allowed to progress to heat stroke, it can be extremely dangerous while operating a motorcycle. Your body temperature will rise significantly, which can cause brain damage if left unchecked. You’ll probably pass out from heatstroke, too. Know your limits, recognize the signs of fatigue from the heat, and stop riding as soon as you feel even a little exhausted.

We hope that these tips for staying cool on your motorcycle will keep you healthy and happy while you ride. If you’re looking for the perfect bike for some long-distance summer riding, visit Holzhauer Pro Motorsports in Nashville, IL, to view our selection of high-quality motorcycles for sale. We welcome all our friends from St. Louis, MO, and Carbondale, IL.