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Get Ready For Cold Weather Riding in Australia
Winter is here in Australia. It is the perfect weather for riding. It does mean that you need to ‘rug up’ a bit though to feel comfortable whilst riding whether to and from work, on a weekend road trip, or adventuring off-road. Read on for some cold-weather motorcycle gear tips.
WEAR LAYERS
Multiple thin layers of clothing are better than fewer big and bulky ones. This is because the more layers you wear, the more warm air you will trap between the layers which will keep you warmer.
A great base layer is one that is thin and is made from materials that wick sweat and moisture away from your body and into the next layer. Some people use a natural fibre like wool as a base layer, but you could also use a synthetic like nylon or polyester. Thermal underwear does the trick, the type you wear for skiing and snowboarding. Interestingly, cotton holds moisture. And that moisture conducts heat away from your body. This means your favourite tee may not be the warmest choice.
The next layer is what keeps the warmth in and insulates your body. It could be lightweight and thin like a warm fleece jacket or hoodie.
Finally, your motorcycle jacket is your outer shell layer. Your motorcycle jacket has the job of being waterproof, windproof and protective. If you buy a jacket (or pants) just for cold-weather riding, then get one slightly bigger than your normal size so that it is roomy enough to wear layers underneath, but not too big that it will create air gaps for the wind and cold to get into.
Of course, if it is raining you could also add a waterproof rainwear jacket, pants or suit. Keeping dry is so important in chilly weather. Worn over your other clothes, rainwear is light, easy to carry with you, and a great backup to keep you warm and dry if the weather turns.
FULL-FACE HELMET
In most areas in Australia, you do not need electrically-heated motorcycle gear, but a full-face helmet is good for any kind of cold-weather motorcycle road riding. It stops your face from freezing and protects you from rain or snow. The best helmets for winter riding come with vents that can be closed. Closing them helps block most wind from entering the helmet.
A balaclava is worn under your helmet and provides insulation and protects your neck from the wind. Available in lightweight cotton or deluxe merino wool.
NECK PROTECTION
Your neck is the weak link between your head and body where body heat can escape.
A blizzard face mask will not only protect your neck, but a neoprene material also covers your nose and mouth to keep them warm.
Or you can check out storm neck tubes that you wear around your neck and can pull up over your chin, mouth, and nose for those really cold rides.
For some jackets like the Macna range, you can buy wind collars that are a wind-tight add-on to the jacket. Its shape deflects the wind while its soft padding is comfy.
WINTER MOTORCYCLE BOOTS AND SOCKS
The best boots for riding in cold weather hands down are the full-length road and adventure style boots. They are bigger, taller, warmer, have better protection and often better waterproofing. Get a size that feels comfortable whilst wearing a thick pair of socks.
WINTER GLOVES
Last but not least, winter gloves are necessary for any riders riding in the cold. If your fingers are frozen and you cannot feel them, it is not comfortable or safe! Winter gloves have thermal liners that help with insulation and often have a waterproof layer that will help block wind and keep your hands dry during wet weather.
Friendly & efficient staff & had parts posted to me before weekend as they said i would...2 days to regional area. No trouble recommending them.
These guys here were great. Great service and great postage. I highly recommend to give these guys a call if you need any parts.
I have been going to Firestorm for over 6 years and would not go anywhere else Great friendly staff , always helpful , parts at a great price. Highly recommend using this shop.
Great store both online and in store, no motorcycles but all extras and loads of clothing accessories.