Is It Too Cold To Ride?

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We frequently talk to riders this time of year who say things like... “It’s just getting too cold to ride.” As warm weather lovers ourselves, we totally understand where these riders are coming from but we usually respond with, “It’s not too cold, you just don’t have the right riding gear!”

And it’s true... the appropriate apparel can keep you on your bike year round with few interruptions to the freedom we all feel on two-wheels. Talk to any of the riders that participate in our winter Butt Buster or H.O.G. Chapter rides and they will tell you... it’s about the gear!

Here are six essential items you need to keep your love for riding from being sidelined during the cooler months.

MODERN BASE LAYER

We all learned as kids that multiple thin layers worked much better at keeping us warm than a bulky single outer layer. The same principal is true when riding so start with a thin base layer, top to bottom. A great option for this is the Harley-Davidson FXRG Collection. It features an innovative fabric that works to monitor warmth, coolness, odor, and is moisture wicking for comfort in all kinds of weather conditions. And because the fabric flexes as you move, it won't bunch, stretch out or restrict your movement. This “aint” your granddads long underwear... this is modern technology that changes the game.

HEATED JACKET LINER

OK... this is the ultimate if you hate cold weather. Stay cozy while clocking miles in Harley-Davidson 12V Programmable Heated Jacket Liners. Constructed from a durable mix of materials with a Carbon Nano Fiber Heating System for fast, evenly-distributed comfort through five heating panels—two chest, one back body, and top of each sleeve. You’ll be warm with one of these under your jacket! (Connects to the bike 12V electrical system.)

QUALITY LEATHER JACKET

A quality leather jacket will keep you road-trip ready! And... if you score something like the Harley-Davidson Auroral II 3-in-1 Leather Jacket... you’re even further ahead of Old Man Winter! It’s a restyled version of the original Auroral Leather Jacket and is engineered with a list of impressive features. From stay-cool vents and a stay-warm removable windproof fleece (there’s that layering thing again...) to an action back and body armor pockets, it’ll keep you logging miles more comfortably. It’s also equipped with plenty of zippered pockets to secure your belongings.... and includes reflective detailing so your riding devotion’s visible, day or night.

WINTER RIDING GLOVES

It’s crazy how riding glove technology has improved in the past few years. Gone are the days when our fingers looked like bratwurst links and we had to remove our gloves to do anything more detailed than pulling in a clutch lever! Take for example, the Harley-Davidson Vanocker Under Cuff Gauntlet Gloves. They are waterproof and designed to power through the mess and keep you smiling despite a cranky Mother Nature. The slim, extended glove cuff fits under your jacket cuff for a superior barrier against the elements without tight bunching. 3M™ Thinsulate™ Insulation and cozy fur-like lining add warmth while a wicking lining helps regulate body temp. And best of all... they provide great mobility and feature an ergonomic thumb and 30 degree pre-curved fingers. Warmth... with function!

LEATHER RIDING BOOTS

So... technically, you should be wearing leather boots year round when you’re riding... but it’s even more critical in the cooler months. The Harley-Davidson Riddick Motorcycle Boot is a great option to protect and keep your toes, feet and ankles safe and warm. They feature a 100% full grain leather upper with rubber outsoles designed for optimum traction. (There’s even an external outside air vent zipper for when it warms up.) The boot's sole, insole and upper are bound using resoleable Goodyear Welt construction processes, the most labor intensive and durable construction method available

FULL FACE HELMET

Other helmets might be great during the warmer months but this winter... cover your face! Harley-Davidson offers a great selection of full face helmets and one of our favorites is the Capstone Sun Shield II H31 Modular Helmet. It features an integrated sunshield (no need to bring sun glasses) and the front quickly pops open when you need it to. The interior and linings are moisture-wicking and crown and cheek pads are removable and washable.

Is it too cold to ride? NO!! Don’t be that rider who rolls their bike into the garage in December and leaves it there until March. With just a few upgrades to your riding apparel, you can keep that two-wheeled smile on your face and ride right on through the coldest months of the year. Stop by Boswell's Harley-Davidson today and let us help you get ready!

Is It Too Cold To Ride?

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