Today was the first morning since last winter that felt cold. Dark gray sky and rustling trees formed a strong reminder of what’s coming. I used to look forward to winter. Now I have to prepare for it — mentally and physically. I have begun preparation for winter by purchasing a cold weather riding jacket. Still want to buy the Tourmaster Winter Elite gloves to try and manage my hands better. And the scooter needs a new rear tire and a drive belt. Both will appear in the next couple of weeks. From that point on all that’s left is the mental preparation for the cold.
Last winter I would feel a rush of excitement when I departed in below freezing temperatures. It was a personal challenge and even though I might only be riding for a dozen miles it did seem like me against the elements. It felt good. One of the many gifts of riding.
One of the biggest challenges for me in winter is getting up while it’s still dark to go to work. My body and mind scream for me to stay in the warm bed. Willpower is required to push the scooter out of the garage in the dark and start it up. I have trouble with transitions even knowing how great it feels to be rolling down the road.
For those of you who ride only in warm weather and put your machines in storage for the winter you might want to give it a second thought. There is a rewarding feeling riding in the cold. You need the right gear and an open mind but worth a try.
Here in the Pacific NW we’ve just broke a dry streak with about 4 days of moderate to heavy rain. Less motorcycles are out, and I can immediately tell by the ones that are still out who the road warriors are.
My boss came in to ask if I rode in today (Lower 50’s and raining) – when I said I did he asked me “isn’t it about time to put that thing away for the season?”
Nope 🙂
Just my “2 cents” on gloves – I’ve used the “Orina 118” gloves for a few years now and they are excellent. I think they go for around $60 and are highly recommended as a waterproof winter glove.
Dan
Dan: You’re right, rain and cold are not enough to park the bike (or scooter).
I checked out those Orina 118 gloves last night at Adventure Motorcycle Gear – http://www.adventuremotogear.com/
They look fantastic. thanks for the heads up on them.
steve
So – silly question. Do you have to put fuel additive into the gas tank of the vespa?
You only need to add things to the fuel if you are going to let the scooter sit for a long time. Since I ride continuously it is not an issue. The fuel right from the pump is fine.
In need of some advise on the purfect winter riding gear. The weather here will get in the teens during the coldest and the current gear I have now is not doing the job. I look like the Michelin Man and can’t hardly move. And the wind still gets in. I don’t have the money to buying gear to find it doesn’t work. Thanks DEREK
I ride a dual purpose KLR650cc bike and enjoy your thoughtful approach to reporting on your riding. I’ll be back.