Thursday, July 12, 2012

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Is it ever too hot to ride?

With high temperatures hitting triple digits and setting records on a daily basis, some people might ask the question: "Is it ever too hot to ride a motorcycle?" Obviously, that is a personal question since everyone has their own feeling on the subject, but for me I would say no. I went out on a ride last weekend and the temperature was 104 degrees. I wore blue jeans and a t-shirt, which some might question for safety, but hey, in my opinion, it is too hot to wear a jacket. So I took my chances. Now when you are riding, even though it is hot, the breeze does keep you cool as you ride. When it becomes uncomfortable is when you have to stop for a traffic light. That's when you feel the extreme heat coming up from the pavement beneath you. Asphalt is the worst. So pick a route with few lights and you're gonna be OK. Now again, it also depends what you are going to do when you reach your destination. Are you out for a pleasure ride or are you going to work? Depending on what kind of job you have, you will either have to changes clothes when you arrive, or wear some wet clothes for a while due to perspiration. Another key point is to drink plenty of fluids before and after your ride. Stop for a break along the way too, depending on how far you're travelling. Many motorcycle dealerships were giving away free water to riders who stopped in for a break to cool off and see the new models in the showroom. So again, from my perspective, while it can be too cold to ride in the winter, it's never to hot to ride in the summer. See you on the road!