Rain
Getting rain while driving is not a problem if you have time and a good place to dry off when you’re done (and if it’s not too cold). But obviously, not getting wet is always the best option. To start, invest in a good raincoat; You will not regret. Waterproof boots and gloves are also essential. And don’t forget to close everything very well. Just a small opening is enough to make you feel soaked.

Safety is more important than comfort. Under rain, safety starts with traction. With good tires, good technique and extra care, there’s no reason to be afraid of the rain.

Check that the tires have the correct tread to channel the water away from where the rubber touches the track. Remember that the road becomes more slippery at the start of a storm, especially after a long period of drought, when water removes oil from the road surface. Avoid the middle of the track, where this effect is most common.

In general, do everything more gradually in the rain: accelerate, brake, turn. Slow down. Try not to react abruptly. Keep away from other vehicles. Be very careful on slippery surfaces, such as manhole covers and, when at a railroad crossing, double your attention to cross the tracks as close as possible to a 90 degree angle.

And remember that walking in the rain is more mentally draining. Take frequent breaks and / or try to stop early in the evening. Mental rest will help you cope well with all riding challenges.

Wind
Being surprised by a sudden cross wind when riding a motorcycle can be scary. But knowing what to do in this type of situation does not have to be a seven-headed bug. Here are two basic tips for dealing with wind gusts.

First, relax. The more you fight the wind, the more it reacts against you. Do not accelerate; do not destabilize the handlebars. Remember the counterattack principles. If a gust of wind hits you from the left, lean towards it by slightly pushing the handlebars on the left. If the wind is constant, maintain a constant pressure, but don’t overdo it. Apply enough pressure to neutralize the wind and keep moving forward.

The second tip is to adjust your position on the track as needed. Although walking on the left third of the track is a good rule, it does not work in every situation. If, for example, a steady wind from the right makes you feel like you’re about to be launched in the opposite direction, give yourself a small margin of error when crossing the right third of the track. But, remember that in this position, drivers (especially truck drivers) in front of you cannot see you very well; therefore, be cautious.

Heat
In the heat, in addition to being aware of slippery stains of melted tar, you must take care of your body temperature and stay hydrated. Heat stress and heat stroke are serious issues that can kill!

Hydrate yourself: take water and / or sports drinks with you and take frequent breaks to hydrate yourself. In extreme heat situations, drink more than you think you need.

Cool off: wearing a wet headband around your neck or under your helmet can do wonders. Dipping your basic t-shirt in cold water or wearing a “hydration vest” can also be a big help.

Cover yourself: bare skin in the hot sun can cause more than a sunburn. Although it is good to expose your arms and shoulders to the wind, a light, light-colored, synthetic long-sleeved T-shirt helps to reflect sunlight and can prevent your body from losing moisture too quickly.

Watch for signs of heat stress: stop immediately if you experience symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, confusion, nausea and / or breathing problems. Cool off in the shade or somewhere with air conditioning and drink plenty of fluids to rehydrate yourself. Seek help if your symptoms don’t subside quickly – and don’t come back until you’re absolutely sure you’ve recovered.

Finally, when outdoors, avoid the most intense heat, starting well in the morning and ending in the late afternoon. Find a nice and airy place (maybe with a pool) to stay during the high temperatures in the afternoon.

Cold
Some people just don’t understand. “How to ride a motorcycle when it is very cold outside?” they ask. Simple: if there are people who ride snowmobiles in sub-zero temperatures, of course you can ride your motorcycle when it’s 2 ° C. Obviously, the secret is to wrap up and stay warm.

Dress in layers that you can remove (or add) according to the temperature variation. Start with a second skin of thermal fabric or wool that will wick moisture away from the body; add a layer (or layers) of wool; and complete with a waterproof and breathable windbreaker.

When walking in the cold, beware of openings, usually on the wrists, ankles or neck. Look for windbreaker gloves with back closure to block the breeze from entering your sleeves. High boots are a must. Closed helmets are excellent in the cold, and a balaclava or neck wrap will keep your chin and neck protected.

Not everyone likes to ride with a windshield or fairing, but these items can make a huge difference in the cold. Harley-Davidson offers a wide variety of windshield options for most motorcycle models – including removable options, which release the breeze when the heat rises.

Walking in the cold also means paying attention to ice patches. Even if the air temperature is above zero, parts of the road may still be frozen. Pay extra attention to bridges, dark spots and low areas of the road, where water can accumulate, freeze and take longer to melt. And remember that ice on the road can sometimes be invisible.

And finally, warm clothes – such as vests, jackets, gloves or even wristbands – can bring comfort and style. After using them once, you’ll never want to go cold riding again!

Harley-Davidson do Brasil motorcycles are available for an exclusive  Test Ride  in the entire network of authorized dealers of the brand in the country, according to the availability of models on the network and following the recommendations of state and municipal governments in relation to care with the health. To register your interest, visit  https://testrides.harley-davidson.com/pt_BR  and sign up. Find the nearest Harley-Davidson store at  https://www.harley-davidson.com/en/pt/tools/find-a-dealer.html .  Check out the month’s offers at  https://www.harley-davidson.com/en/pt/tools/offers.html .

ABOUT HARLEY-DAVIDSON
Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services.  Our vision:  Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission :  More than building machines, we defend the timeless quest for adventure. Freedom for the soul. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined the motorcycle culture with an expanding range of cutting-edge, distinctive and customizable motorcycles, as well as riding experiences and accessories, equipment and exceptional riding clothes. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get Harley-Davidson riders on the road. Find out more about how Harley-Davidson is building the next generation of bikers at  https://www.harley-davidson.com.br