Surviving Summer: How to Prepare Yourself and Your Motorcycle

Planning a road trip this summer? A relaxing, scenic drive is a great way to blow off steam and explore the best the open road has to offer. However, hot weather can take a toll on both rider and machine, so it’s important to be proactive and prepare for a ride in the temperature extremes that warmer weather brings.

Rider Tips

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Intense heat from the sun, pavement, even other vehicles, creates a dangerous situation for riders. Drinking water and/or an electrolyte-laden beverage before, during and after a ride, even a short 10-miler, allows the body to cool itself efficiently. Feeling dehydrated before a ride means the body is already in a deficit in terms of hydration. According to the Mayo Clinic, the following are signs of dehydration. Riders feeling these effects should immediately head inside to cooler temperatures and start replenishing fluids.

• Extreme thirst
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Fatigue
• Less frequent urination/dark-colored urine

Avoid alcohol, energy drinks and caffeine, as these types of liquids can actually pull moisture out of the body. Save those for post-ride enjoyment to avoid heatstroke/sunstroke.

Sunscreen
Apply sunscreen on the face, neck and arms, even if they are covered. The sun’s rays can penetrate clothing, and as a general course of action, it’s best to apply sunscreen before clothing. Bring a small tube along for the ride and reapply often. A sweat-resistant type is best.

Wear a cooling vest
Motorcycle cooling vest systems help regulate body temperature and keep riders cool. There are two main types of systems – ice pack/gel pack and evaporation.

Ice pack/gel pack vests need to be either refrigerated or frozen prior to wearing. They are then placed into a vest-type garment and worn over clothing, but under leathers, to keep riders cool. The second type work by being placed in water and absorbing it, then releasing it over time to remove body heat. How long cooling vests work depends on ambient temperatures, the type of vest used, and what type of clothing is worn over it.

Ventilated helmets, clothing and footwear
Riding safely is always a priority, and during high temperatures, bikers may be tempted to ditch the leather jackets and pants for shorts and t-shirts. Helmets, clothing and footwear often include cooling vents as standard issue; increase the body’s cooling ability by wearing moisture-wicking fabrics in pants, undergarments, shirts and socks.

Motorcycle tips

Consult the service manual
It seems like common sense to check the motorcycle owner’s and service manual as the seasons change, but this is not always the case. Checking the service manual could save hundreds of dollars on repairs. Even if the rig is well-maintained, there could be specialty items that need addressed that a routine inspection may not catch. So, open up that manual and read up on ways to keep a motorcycle functioning efficiently.

Monitor fluid levels
Just as the human body requires more fluids when weather is warm, it’s a good idea to monitor fluid levels on motorcycles as well. Whether air-, liquid- or oil-cooled, bike engines must be maintained to run efficiently in hot temperatures or costly repairs ensue. Always check levels prior to riding for better performance.

Check tire pressures
Higher temperatures cause air to expand beyond the manufacturer’s recommended PSI on tires. This can lead to blowout and a rider-down situation. Check the PSI to ensure the tires are inflated properly.

Inspect heat-sensitive parts
Belts, hoses and gaskets can crack, melt and fail in high heat. Even parking a machine in midday sun can adversely affect these parts, so it’s important to inspect them regularly. When finished riding, park in the shade or a covered structure after to allow the bike to cool before heading out on the road again.

Replace the air filter
Check the filter and replace if necessary in order to maintain proper airflow to your engine. A clogged/dirty filter cuts down on fuel efficiency and engine performance, including cooling.

Clean the engine’s fin
Air- and oil-cooled engines use fins to dissipate heat. If the fins are dirty, it can be difficult for air to pass through them and the engine could greatly heat up. Make sure to clean the fins to avoid overheating.

Examine the chain
Inspect a chain-driven motorcycle weekly to make sure it is tight and well-lubricated. Exposure to the elements and heat can cause degradation and looseness on chain-driven engines.

Heading out on the bike and going camping? Discover the camping essentials needed for a fun and enjoyable time. Injured while out on a ride? Contact Law Tigers and start working on your personal injury claim today. Call 1-888-863-7216 or contact us online for a case evaluation.