Wanna ride even though the weather is cold and there might be snow on the ground?
My answer is; of course you should, and I’m guessing yours is the same!
Here you’ll learn that it isn’t that hard. You just have to be prepared and use the right winter riding gear and products to be able to enjoy it.
We’ll go into what you need, both in terms of your personal gear but also stuff that will help to improve your bike. It isn’t really that much you need.
But even the little things will get you better prepared for those fun winter riding experiences.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this article (table of contents):
The Best Riding Gear and Equipment for Cold Winter Days
Just as doing any activity in cold snowy weather, the key is to be prepared.
If you go out and ride in the same gear you use during the warm summer months, of course, it will be miserable.
Here we’ll give you a couple of tips on gear that will make you enjoy the riding, and not focus as much on the freezing temperatures.
Layers – wear layers
Like any activity in cold wet weather it is key to use layers.
By using layers you can shed a layer or two if you get to warm. And then just put it back on when you’re getting colder again.
Wear three or four layers of different shirts and jackets. Use a good undergarment, in for example merino wool, as base.
For your Feet
Your feet are one of two parts (the other one being your hands) that are very exposed and easily gets cold.
Use a pair of good quality riding socks. Get a pair that is thicker than your normal ones, or maybe try Gore-tex.
Make sure to waterproof your boots, use any kind of waterproofing spray or treatment. Even normal chain lube can help a bit.
One thing to consider is that you need boots with soles that are durable enough to slide across rough ice all day long. Some even use duct tape for a “smoother” surface.
For your Hands
If you are anything like me and have hands that are very susceptible to the cold you need exceptional gloves to keep the cold out.
Choose a glove that have wind protection on the outside but still is thin on the inside of the palm.
A pair of Kevlar liners under gloves are awesome for keeping hands warm and reducing blisters at the same time!
On days that are a bit warmer a pair of insulated mechanics gloves will do.
One thing that I have discovered is that wearing gloves that are too thick can lead to arm pump. Just a tip.
On really cold days a pair of Hand Warmers will do wonders. They look a bit strange and bulky but aren’t that much of a distraction when you ride.
Jacket and Pants
We have already covered that you should be using layers. But what about that outer layer, should you use a jacket or just a jersey?
Well it depends on the temperature you’re riding in.
- A riding jacket or vest (windproof) to reduce that chill factor from the wind and elements is always good.
- Specific winter riding gear or OTB Enduro pants is good when it’s cold and wet. OTB means that the pants go over the boots. The Fox Legion range is a great range to consider.
Helmet and Googles
If you have the budget for it a tad bigger helmet, and just a tad, will make it easier to fit a skull cap under the helmet. This helps keep the head warmer.
Tip! Cover the front vents of your helmet. That way you’ll avoid the worst chilling winds.
Use Goggles with Double Lens to help prevent fogging (due to condensation) on your ride. If it’s snow and very bright riding conditions a grey or yellow lens will help.
A tip is to look up snowmobile gear. That gear is made to function in cold snowy conditions.
Your personal winter riding gear done. Now onto your bike!
How to prepare your Dirt Bike for the cold
It isn’t only you that need to be extra prepared when it’s time to ride on those colder days. Your bike need that as well.
Some of the things we mention here are for you that are riding in true winter conditions. Not just on a “chilly” day…
1. Fuel Stabilisers
Fuel stabilizers bind water and protects the system against rust and corrosion.
This helps prevent the gummy build up in the fuel system associated with oxidation. It also ensures a smooth start after long periods of storage.
2. Heated Grips
A pair of heated grips can be a lifesaver. For me that have very bad blood circulation in my hands and very easily get very cold. These have been a game changer.
3. Textile tape on brake- and clutchlevers
It might seem a little unnecessary, but your fingers will thank you and, you’ll also get a better grip.
4. Hand Guards
Buy and install a pair of Hand Guards. They will not only help with reducing spray from other riders but also cold winds.
5. Studded tires
If the ground is frozen or there’s ice and snow. A pair of studded tires will do the riding so much safer. And more fun.
6. Protect your bike
Winter usually brings condensation on rides which can get into the nooks and crannies of your bike and cause corrosion and rust.
Use protective parts for your bike like bash/skid plates, radiator sleeves, clutch & ignition protectors, pipe guards & front disc guards.
You can also fill any voids with foam to protect it from snow.
Why we wanna ride in the cold winter months
Because riding dirt bikes is the best, right?
No snow and or cold temperature gonna stop us from doing the thing we love.
And if you live in a place where the weather is “bad” for several months. You don’t want to give it up for that long of a period.
Motocross and trail riding in the winter is also a great way to improve your riding skills. Riding in deep snow is very much like riding in mud and sloppy conditions.
If you’re having doubts about whether you really should ride during the winter, I really hope I can get you to at least try it.
For example; riding with studded tires is a totally different experience. It’s something you have to do, at least once.
Conclusion
Riding all year round is possible no matter where you live. It’s just about being prepared.
There is a Scandinavian saying that goes: “There is no bad weather, just bad clothes”.
Here we’ve covered our tips on what you should wear when riding in cold winter conditions. All to stay warm and dry.
Do you have any tips that we might have missed? Let us know. You’ll not only help us but also other dirt bikers that ride all year long...
