Is Cold Weather Bad for Harley-Davidson Motorcycles?

There’s nothing like riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle on a beautiful day. However, once the cold weather comes, many put their motorcycle away until temperatures start heating up. Can you ride a motorcycle during cold weather? Absolutely, but whether or not you should is another story.

Impact of Cold Weather

Cold weather isn’t the greatest for a Harley, especially over a prolonged period. For example, it can impact the battery and the viscosity of the engine oil and not in a good way.

Impact of Inclement Weather on a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle

Short-term exposure to rain or snow likely won’t damage your Harley, but you don’t want it to have any extended exposure to inclement weather as it could cause various issues, such as corrosion. Hail can also damage your motorcycle by leaving dents behind. The less exposure your Harley has to any type of moisture and freezing temperatures, especially during the winter months, the better.

Cold Weather Dangers

One of the biggest issues with riding a Harley in cold weather is the risk of tire traction loss on the road. Winter riding in icy and/or snowy conditions is extremely dangerous, not just because of the risk of getting frostbite and hypothermia but also due to how the tires react with the road. Even if it seems like it’s only snow, it’s very easy for black ice to be hiding underneath it. There’s also the issue of snow, hail, or rain blowing in your face, a massive danger considering you need to be able to clearly see where you’re going.

Storing Your Harley for the Winter

When you’re storing away your Harley-Davidson motorcycle for the winter months, make sure you winterize it beforehand. Don’t just store it away, even if it’s in a heated garage, and let it be. It needs pre-storage care, such as getting a cleaning. One of the several other important tips is to use the right cover, one where moisture can’t get underneath. Using the wrong cover puts the motorcycle at risk for exposure to freezing temperatures and moisture, which, in turn, could also lead to mould growing along with the development of a corresponding odour.

Cold Weather and Your Harley-Davidson Motorcycle

If you insist on riding your Harley on a clear, cold day when there’s no snow, ice, or rain on the ground and none in the forecast, it’s vital to first take precautions. Do an inspection of your bike, from its tire pressure to fluid levels. You also have to bundle up in heated gear for cold weather riding, but not so much that it impacts your reaction time and maneuverability. A full-face helmet could also prove beneficial. Above all, always practice safe riding in any temperature and weather so you can continue to ride your Harley for many more years.