Many motorcycle riders feel trapped inside during the winter. Cold and snowy weather can make it difficult or even impossible to ride a motorcycle, leaving riders stuck at home, dreaming of the open road. If you can't ride at the moment, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the motorcycle lifestyle while at home.
Here are four fun things motorcycle riders can do when they’re trapped inside over the winter:
- Join a local motorcycle club or organization. Joining a club or organization is a great way to pass the time in winter, even in the cold. Wherever you live, there are most likely several motorcycle clubs or organizations in the area. Joining a group is a great way to meet other like-minded people, participate in events and learn more to increase your riding skills. Your local ABATE group is a great place to start, joining other riders and working toward fighting for motorcyclist rights in whatever state you are in. You can learn more about ABATE here: www.abatewis.org. Motovid is a great group to join that hosts track days where you can increase your riding skills – you can find out more about them here: www.motovid.com.
- Keep your motorcycle in top condition. Since your motorcycle will be taking a break over the winter, it's a great time to give it everything it needs to be ready for the next riding season. While your motorcycle is parked in storage, you can clean and wax your bike, change the oil, check the tires and battery and make any necessary repairs that may be needed. It’s also a great time to plan out and shop for any upgrades you may want to customize your bike with. If you complete most of your maintenance now, you can take your bike right onto the road when the riding season starts again.
- Plan future rides. Even though you might not be able to ride in the snow, you can still plan your next big motorcycle trip. Use the time in the winter that you're stuck inside to look at future trips you can take when riding season starts again. It’s always great to have something to look forward to that’s coming up over the spring and summer. Hupy and Abraham has put together a few informative articles on popular routes in Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa, if you’re looking for some inspiration.
- Watch classic motorcycle movies. You’ll have time to cozy up and watch some great motorcycle movies – “Easy Rider,” “Wild Hogs,” “On Any Sunday,” “Ghost Rider” and “The World’s Fastest Indian” are all worthy of a watch and there’s something for everyone, whether you like action, comedy, documentaries or dramas. You can gather with family, friends or other riders, grab a bowl of popcorn and enjoy these motorcycle films while you dream of warmer days when you can take your bike back out on the road.
Even though the winter may trap you inside and keep you off of your bike, you can still enjoy the motorcycle lifestyle. Staying active and engaged in the riding community throughout the winter can help make the most of the time you’re trapped inside. With planning, you’ll be ready to hit the road as soon as riding season begins.
Hupy and Abraham, S.C. has been promoting safety and motorcycle awareness for decades. The firm is an advocate for motorcycle riders, promoting the “Watch for Motorcycles” campaign, which helps save riders’ lives. Stay tuned to HUPY.COM to remain updated on motorcycle articles, safety tips, videos and upcoming events.
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