Michigan Chapter J2, Clare

"Gold Wing Road Riders Association"

"Friends for Fun, Safety and Knowledge"


A couple of tips from our Rider Educator

Motorcycling is a great outdoor adventure, however you need to be aware of the effects that the air temperature can have on you. Bellow is two charts explaining how hot and cold temperatures can effect you while riding outdoors.

To use the table, find your wind speed, left hand vertical column, and your temperature across the top. Where the two intersect in the table, you will find the wind chill. For example, with a temperature of 0º F, and a wind speed of 20 mph, you get a wind chill of -22º F.

 

The wind chill index is a measure of the rate of heat loss, and is not a temperature. For humans, there is no specific rule for determining when wind chills become dangerous. However, wind chill values below -20º F appear to significantly increase your risk of frostbite.

 

Protection Tips

  • Don't just dress warm, dress right: Clothing warms best when worn in layers. The first layer should be a light, water-permeable (but not retentive) garment with a fleece garment over it.

  • The more layers, the warmer you stay. 

  • The outer layer should be both wind and water resistant.

  • Protect the extremities: Ear, nose, fingers and toes are the most prone to frostbite. 

  • Mittens warm the hands better than gloves. 

  • If circulation is lost in the hand or fingers, the blood can usually be restored by extending the arm and rotating from the shoulder in a circular motion. Centrifugal force pushes  blood back into the fingers. 

  • Drinking hot beverages can also help to alleviate or prevent frostbite.

  • If severe frostbite sets in, get indoors and immerse the frostbitten area in 100 - 110 degree water. (Note: the old story that slow warming works best is not true.)

  • Alcohol and tobacco use can accelerate the onset of frost bite

It's just as important to be aware of the effects of the "Heat Index" during the summer months. Even though the temperature is in the mid 80's, if the humidity is high the "Heat Index" can exceed 100 degrees.

 

As always drink plenty of fluids (refrain from Diuretics like coffee and tea). Make frequent stop and avoid driving during the peak heat hours of the day.

 

Be Smart, Ride Safe!

Glen Grasley

Chapter J2 Educator