Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience that sets your spirit free on the open road. But as the seasons change and temperatures drop, a chill in the air can quickly turn that thrilling adventure into a bone-chilling ordeal, especially for your hands - those trusty appendages that grip the handlebars and guide you through twists and turns.
Anyone who has spent time on a motorcycle knows that cold hands aren't just uncomfortable; they can be downright dangerous. Reduced dexterity, numb fingers, and aching joints can jeopardize your control over the bike and your safety on the road.
But fear not, fellow riders, for this blog post is your ultimate guide to combating the cold and keeping those precious hands of yours warm and toasty. We've scoured the gear, tried the tricks, and gathered the wisdom of seasoned riders to bring you a comprehensive collection of strategies, tips, and innovative solutions to ensure your hands stay comfortably warm on every ride.
From heated gloves that feel like a warm embrace to nifty DIY hacks you can do on a budget, we've got all the tools you need to conquer the elements and keep your hands cozy. So, whether you're planning a winter expedition or just looking to extend your riding season comfortably, join us as we explore the world of motorcycle hand warmth. Your next chilly ride doesn't stand a chance against the knowledge and advice we're about to share. Let's roll!
1) Heated Motorcycle Gloves
Heated gloves work by using a small electrical current to heat up wires that are woven into the fabric of the gloves. The heat is then distributed evenly throughout the gloves, keeping your hands warm.
There are two main types of heated gloves: battery-powered and plug-in. Battery-powered gloves have a rechargeable battery that powers the heating elements. Plug-in gloves have a cord that plugs into a 12-volt power source, such as the battery of your motorcycle.
Heated gloves can be a great way to keep your hands warm while riding a motorcycle in cold weather. They are especially helpful if you have poor circulation or if you tend to get cold hands easily.
Here are some of the benefits of using heated gloves for motorcycle riding:
- They can help to prevent frostbite and other cold-related injuries.
- They can improve your grip on the handlebars.
- They can make it more comfortable to ride in cold weather.
- They can help you to stay focused and alert.
When choosing heated gloves for motorcycle riding, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- The gloves should be made of a durable material that can withstand the elements.
- They should have a snug fit to prevent cold air from getting in.
- They should have a comfortable lining to wick away moisture.
- They should have adjustable heat settings so you can customize the warmth to your liking.
Heated gloves can be a great investment for motorcycle riders who want to stay warm and comfortable in cold weather. If you are looking for a way to keep your hands warm while riding, heated gloves are a good option to consider.
Check out my guide to the best heated motorcyle gloves here.
2) Heated Grips
Heated grips work in a similar way to heated gloves, but they heat the handlebars instead of the gloves. There are two main types of heated grips: electric and liquid.
Electric heated grips use a small electrical current to heat up wires that are embedded in the grips. The heat is then distributed evenly throughout the grips, keeping your hands warm.
Liquid heated grips use a liquid, such as glycol, that is heated by a small electric pump. The heated liquid then circulates through the grips, keeping them warm.
Heated grips can be a great way to keep your hands warm while riding a motorcycle in cold weather. They are especially helpful if you have poor circulation or if you tend to get cold hands easily.
Here are some of the benefits of using heated grips for motorcycle riding:
- They can help to prevent frostbite and other cold-related injuries.
- They can improve your grip on the handlebars.
- They can make it more comfortable to ride in cold weather.
- They can help you to stay focused and alert.
When choosing heated grips for motorcycle riding, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- The grips should be made of a durable material that can withstand the elements.
- They should have a snug fit to prevent cold air from getting in.
- They should have adjustable heat settings so you can customize the warmth to your liking.
Heated grips can be a great investment for motorcycle riders who want to stay warm and comfortable in cold weather. If you are looking for a way to keep your hands warm while riding, heated grips are a good option to consider.
3) Hands Guards
Hand guards are a type of motorcycle accessory that helps to protect your hands from the wind and the elements. They are typically made of plastic or metal and are attached to the handlebars of your motorcycle.
Hand guards work by deflecting the wind away from your hands. This helps to prevent the wind from cooling your hands down and causing them to get cold. Hand guards can also help to protect your hands from rain and snow.
In addition to keeping your hands warm, hand guards can also help to improve your grip on the handlebars. This is because they help to create a barrier between your hands and the wind.
If you are planning on riding your motorcycle in cold weather, hand guards are a good investment. They can help to keep your hands warm and comfortable, and they can also help to improve your grip on the handlebars.
Here are some of the benefits of using hand guards for motorcycle riding in cold weather:
- They can help to prevent frostbite and other cold-related injuries.
- They can improve your grip on the handlebars.
- They can make it more comfortable to ride in cold weather.
- They can help you to stay focused and alert.
When choosing hand guards for motorcycle riding, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- The hand guards should be made of a durable material that can withstand the elements.
- They should fit snugly around the handlebars to prevent wind from getting in.
- They should have a clear plastic shield to protect your hands from rain and snow.
Hand guards can be a great investment for motorcycle riders who want to stay warm and comfortable in cold weather. If you are looking for a way to keep your hands warm while riding, hand guards are a good option to consider.
4) Windproof And Insulated Gloves
Windproof and insulated gloves can keep your hands warm when riding a motorcycle in cold weather by blocking the wind and trapping heat.
Windproof gloves are made of a material that does not allow air to pass through. This helps to prevent the wind from cooling your hands down. Insulated gloves have a layer of material that traps heat, such as fleece, wool, or down. This helps to keep your hands warm even when they are exposed to the cold air.
When choosing windproof and insulated gloves for motorcycle riding, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- The gloves should be made of a durable material that can withstand the elements.
- They should fit snugly to prevent cold air from getting in.
- They should have a comfortable lining to wick away moisture.
- They should have touchscreen compatible fingertips so you can use your phone or GPS without taking off your gloves.
Windproof and insulated gloves can be a great investment for motorcycle riders who want to stay warm and comfortable in cold weather. If you are looking for a way to keep your hands warm while riding, windproof and insulated gloves are a good option to consider.
5) Inner Glove Liners
Inner liners are thin, lightweight gloves that are worn under your regular motorcycle gloves. They are typically made of a windproof and insulated material, such as fleece or wool.
Inner liners work by trapping heat and preventing the wind from cooling your hands down. They can also help to wick away moisture, which can help to keep your hands dry and comfortable.
Inner liners can be a great way to add extra warmth to your motorcycle gloves. They are especially helpful if you have cold hands or if you are riding in cold weather.
When choosing inner liners, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- The liners should be made of a durable material that can withstand the elements.
- They should fit snugly to prevent cold air from getting in.
- They should have a comfortable lining to wick away moisture.
Inner liners can be a great investment for motorcycle riders who want to stay warm and comfortable in cold weather. If you are looking for a way to add extra warmth to your motorcycle gloves, inner liners are a good option to consider.
6) Bar Muffs
Bar muffs are a type of motorcycle accessory that covers the handlebars. They are typically made of a windproof and insulated material, such as neoprene or fleece.
Bar muffs work by trapping heat around the handlebars and preventing the wind from cooling your hands down. They can also help to protect your hands from rain and snow.
In addition to keeping your hands warm, bar muffs can also help to improve your grip on the handlebars. This is because they help to create a barrier between your hands and the wind.
If you are planning on riding your motorcycle in cold weather, bar muffs are a good investment. They can help to keep your hands warm and comfortable, and they can also help to improve your grip on the handlebars.
Here are some of the benefits of using bar muffs for motorcycle riding in cold weather:
- They can help to prevent frostbite and other cold-related injuries.
- They can improve your grip on the handlebars.
- They can make it more comfortable to ride in cold weather.
- They can help you to stay focused and alert.
When choosing bar muffs, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- The bar muffs should be made of a durable material that can withstand the elements.
- They should fit snugly around the handlebars to prevent wind from getting in.
- They should have a clear plastic window to allow you to see the controls.
Bar muffs can be a great investment for motorcycle riders who want to stay warm and comfortable in cold weather. If you are looking for a way to keep your hands warm while riding, bar muffs are a good option to consider.
7) Hand Warmers
Disposable hand warmers work by a chemical reaction that produces heat. The most common type of disposable hand warmer contains iron powder, activated carbon, salt, and water. When the hand warmer is opened, the iron powder and water mix together and start to react. This reaction produces heat, which is trapped inside the hand warmer.
Disposable hand warmers can be a great way to keep your hands warm while riding a motorcycle in cold weather. They are small and easy to carry, and they can be used for a few hours before they need to be replaced.
To use a disposable hand warmer, simply open the packet and place it in your gloves. The hand warmer will start to heat up immediately. You can also place the hand warmer in your pockets or under your jacket.
Disposable hand warmers are a safe and effective way to keep your hands warm. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Do not overheat the hand warmer. If the hand warmer gets too hot, it can burn your skin.
- Do not place the hand warmer near an open flame or other heat source.
- Do not puncture the hand warmer. If the hand warmer is punctured, the chemicals inside can leak out and cause burns.
Disposable hand warmers are a convenient and effective way to keep your hands warm while riding a motorcycle in cold weather. By following the safety precautions, you can use disposable hand warmers safely and enjoy the warmth they provide.
Here are some additional tips for using disposable hand warmers for motorcycle riding:
- Place the hand warmers in your gloves or pockets before you start riding. This will give them time to heat up.
- If your hands are already cold, you can warm them up by rubbing them together before you put the hand warmers in.
- You can also use disposable hand warmers to warm up your feet. Simply place them in your boots or socks.
- Be sure to remove the hand warmers when you are finished riding. This will prevent them from overheating.
Wrapping Things Up
As the engine purrs beneath you and the wind rushes past, the sensation of riding a motorcycle is unmatched. However, when cold weather threatens to nip at your fingers and sap your enjoyment, it's crucial to be prepared. We've explored an array of strategies and solutions to help you conquer the cold and keep your hands warm during those invigorating rides.
From the cutting-edge technology of heated gloves to the timeless wisdom of layering and insulation, you now have a treasure trove of techniques at your disposal. Remember to choose the methods that work best for your preferences and riding conditions, whether it's investing in high-quality gear, modifying your motorcycle, or simply honing your cold-weather riding skills.
By safeguarding the warmth and comfort of your hands, you're not only enhancing your riding experience but also ensuring your safety on the road. So, whether you're embarking on an epic winter journey or just tackling your daily commute, these tips will keep your hands cozy and your riding spirit high.
As the seasons change and the thermometer dips, don't let the cold hold you back. Armed with knowledge and the right gear, you can continue to chase the horizon and embrace the joy of motorcycle riding year-round. Keep your hands warm, stay safe, and enjoy the ride!
