Cold Weather & Winter Motorcycle Gear

The wind chill at cruising speed can make breathtaking rides simply unbearable. Get suited up in cold weather motorcycle gear and guard against temperatures capable of ruining your ride. You don’t need to live in a strictly cold climate to wear winter motorcycle gear, either. Highway speeds are enough to bring on the chill while rides on a brisk morning or cold night means there’s no sun to offer respite. What’s a year-round rider to do? Invest in some of the best winter motorcycle gear on the market, which Cycle Gear is proud to provide. Be sure to review this cold weather riding advice from our friends over at Common Tread then get back to picking out the perfect kit.

Cold Weather Warriors

So what exactly goes into a cold weather motorcycle riding gear ensemble and when do you know you’re good to go? Both are fair questions given the level of discomfort caused by getting it wrong. Start with base layers for both your top and bottom. This initial layer of protection will often provide windproof, water-resistant and fast-drying feature to trap the heat in. Gloves may seem like an obvious choice, but the ones you’ll find here are tailor-made for the job. Exhibit complete control over throttle, brake and clutch levers thanks to multiple layers of insulation, outer shells and battery-powered heating elements. Jackets are generally the showstopper when it comes to effective cold weather motorcycle gear. If you want armor, collars, snaps, belts and a slew of other features packed into waterproof, windproof and downright warm shells then this is the winter motorcycle gear to get. Of course, it’s important to balance all this with a motorcycle that’s ready for the ride. A large windscreen or fairing can deflect excess wind, heated grips can deliver a world of warmth while aggressive tires will help keep you planted on slick roads.

Winter riding and all it entails can put you in the middle of beautiful vistas rarely seen by others. It’s also a bigger ask compared to fair weather riders of warmer months and pleasant climates. Get the right gear for the job and you’re bound to enjoy this experience. While you’re here, be sure to check out our new Riders Plus Membership (RPM) program for exclusive deals and perks!