Owning a motorcycle means that you can rev up the engine and hit the pavement in a moment’s notice. It is a freeing feeling to be able to feel the wind on your back while cruising down the highway at speeds that make it feel like you’re flying. Motorcycles are perfect for those warm, summery days and nights, but contrary to popular belief, you can still ride them when the weather cools down. Even though the weather may make you feel like your freezing to the bone, there are ways to keep warm while enjoying a nice winter ride. Before keeping your motorcycle garaged for an entire season, consider the cold weather accessories listed below. They are sure to provide a great means of keeping your internal temperature up so that you can enjoy your motorcycle all year round.

Long Johns or Fleece Clothing as a Base Layer
Think about your base layer of clothing before hopping on the hog. Dressing in layers will provide you with added warmth that will keep you toasty in the winter months. Wearing a thick base layer that is comprised of fleece or even long johns will give you an extra layer of protection against the harsh elements of winter.

Windshield Installation
The winter wind can be a cruel beast to contend with in the depths of the season. Consider the installation of a windshield in order to help keep the wind off of your face. Windshields are relatively easy to install and take the brunt of the wind and divert it from hitting you smack dab in the face.

Wear a Full Motorcycle Helmet
In the summer time, you may not need a full motorcycle helmet in order to keep the heat inside. In the winter, it’s a much different animal. Wearing a full motorcycle helmet helps to trap the heat where it should be – close to your head. A lot of heat escapes through your head, but with a full motorcycle helmet, you will stay warmer and be protected from harsh winds.

Wear a Scarf
Wearing a scarf prevents the wind from hitting your face. In addition to the protection of a full helmet, a scarf can help keep your face warm. Covering your body from head to toe is the key to staying as warm as possible so that cold air doesn’t infiltrate through your clothing.

Buy Warm Socks and Boots
Investing in thick socks and a great pair of boots will mean that once the winter weather hits, your extremities will stay warm. In colder temperatures, your feet will stay insulated with thicker socks and good boots.

Purchase Quality Gloves
Even more than your feet, you should pay good attention to the type of gloves that you buy. Buying gloves that are well made will be the only barrier that your hands have protecting them from ice cold winds. Windproof riding gloves that are insulated and have a clasp will provide the best protection against the cold air.

Think About Electrically Heated Clothing
Electrically heated clothing works like an electric blanket to keep your skin warm. A portable electrical blanket or other clothing items are hooked to your motorcycle’s battery to transfer heat to your body.

Select a Jacket and Pants that are Weatherproof
Now that your clothes are properly layered to give you the most warmth in the face of colder temperatures, you should consider a jacket and pants that are weatherproof. Synthetic material like Kevlar or Cordura will offer you the best possible outer protection for your winter rides. Elastic cuffs will seal in the warmth, preventing the cold air from getting inside.

Add Liners to your Jacket and Pants
Adding another layer of warmth to your winter wear are liners for your jacket and pants. Fleece or thermal lining is best in helping you retain as much heat as possible.

Bring Along Food
Your body can retain a great deal of heat on its own, so don’t neglect the ability to remain warm by nourishing your body with food. If you’re out riding on an empty stomach, your body loses its ability to keep warm. Food keeps your body warm by giving you energy.