Stay Cool While Riding This Summer

As avid motorcyclists, we understand the desire to hit the road year round. While it’s easy to bundle up and ride in comfort during the winter, it can be a real challenge to stay cool during the summer. Today, we’ll look at some ways you can optimize your riding to keep you cool during the warmer months.

Stay Hydrated

Whether you’re riding across town, or across the state, be sure to pack plenty of water and drink it frequently. Water is essential to keeping your body happy and as you sweat, your body releases its water reserves. Since even the most well-ventilated motorcycle gear can make you sweat, you’ll want to be sure to drink plenty of water on the journey. Remember, if you’re feeling thirsty, you’re already slightly dehydrated. To stay on top of your thirst, take a few sips of water every time you stop and be sure to drink plenty of water before you hit the road.

Take Breaks

While this isn’t always necessary for simple cross-town jaunts, it’s absolutely vital on longer rides. If you’re feeling warm, stop at the next convenience store or landmark to cool off. Take off your jacket, remove your helmet, and let your body take a break from the heat. Frequent stops to cool down can make all the difference in keeping you on the road longer and making the ride more pleasant.

Cover Up

Contrary to popular belief, you won’t always be cooler if you ride in nothing more than jeans and a tshirt and you’re far less protected than you would be if you covered up. When your bare skin gets sweaty on your bike, the air dries the sweat quickly, making it difficult for your body to cool down efficiently. This increases your risk of dehydration and sunburn! No one likes the feeling of sore, achy skin. Wear your riding leathers and keep your skin protected from the sun and road rash!

Ride with a Wet Bandana

During the summer, you can get overheated even on short trips to the grocery store. Before you leave the house, soak a bandana in cool water and tie it around your neck. This is one of the most effective ways to cool your bloodstream, keeping your entire body cooler throughout your ride. For longer trips, wet the bandana each time you stop to cool off.

Stay Away from Caffeine

Caffeine is a natural diuretic that can cause you to become dehydrated more quickly than you would if you only drink water. While no one is going to deny you that morning cup of coffee, stay away from caffeinated drinks while you’re riding. If you feel that you need that extra pick me up, be sure to drink water afterwards to reduce your risk of dehydration.

Remember Your Gloves

Leaving your hands to face the elements is not a good idea during the warmer months. Just like your arms, your hands can easily get sunburned, making riding unbearable. Invest in lightweight, well ventilated gloves to keep your hands cool without the risk of sunburn. Many companies offer summer riding gloves specifically designed to provide the best ventilation possible.

Watch for Heat Exhaustion

It’s easy to ignore the symptoms of heat exhaustion when you’re enjoying the scenery, but try to stay aware of how your body is feeling. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include muscle cramps, headache, fatigue, and nausea. If you start to notice any of these symptoms, take a break and cool down before they get worse. Your body will thank you for it.

RC Components is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality custom motorcycle wheels for your cherished ride. Stay cool this summer, and order your custom Harley wheels today. Browse our selection for your make and model.