Tips for Riding Your Motorcycle in the Mountains

Winding mountain roads offer plenty of gorgeous views for the intrepid motorcyclist to experience. You can get out of the city and find peace in the hills, as well as hairpin curves that will give you the thrills you’re seeking. However, high elevation roads have their own set of hazards that differ from your typical flat highway ride. To stay safe, you’ll want to prepare yourself accordingly against inclement weather conditions, traffic, slippery roads, steep cliffs, and tight curves with little visibility. 

Here at Crossroad Powersports of Upper Darby, we are well-versed in the special set of skills you need to ride your motorcycle in the mountains, so we’ve drawn up this list of tips to help you stay safe and have a successful motorcycle adventure at high elevations!

Check Weather & Riding Conditions

Before you head out on your trip through the mountains, check the weather conditions to make sure that nothing will impede your progress. You should reschedule your trip if the forecast predicts high winds, heavy rains, icy roads, or blizzards. Lightning and hail are also dangerous. Know that even if the skies are clear, the temperatures in the mountains can be much colder, and wind speeds can increase dramatically the higher you climb.

Depending on the season, traffic in the mountains can also vary. Inclement weather conditions, landslides, or falling rocks may also make some roads impassable, so you’ll want to check for road closures and construction before you head out, too, so you’re not waylaid by a detour. Traffic may be busy on a clear day, too, which means you’ll have to be aware of cars around you and be ready to react to them.

Dress The Part

If temperatures are cold in the mountains (and they might be even at the height of summer), you’ll want to add some layers to your typical motorcycle gear. Obviously, you’ll want to wear your helmet, riding gloves, and riding boots for protection and grip. Add some thermal underwear or another long-sleeved shirt and a scarf under your riding suit or jacket to help stay warm. You’ll also want to pack rain gear in case you encounter heavy, wet fog or drizzle on your ride, since being wet will make you cold and more susceptible to contracting hypothermia.

Remain Vigilant

The twists and turns of mountain roads can be exciting and adrenaline-pumping, but they must be ridden with care. Keep your focus as you ride -- don’t get so distracted by beautiful vistas that you stop looking at the road ahead. Take corners as widely as you can while remaining in your lane so you can improve your visibility of oncoming traffic. Other motorists may not be as experienced riding in the mountains, so be patient and give them more space.

Since your rear tire will take more strain while going uphill, reducing traction on your front wheel, you’ll want to apply your rear brake gently to avoid sliding out when you want to slow down. Similarly, your front tire will take more of the brunt when you head back down, so apply your front brake gently and release it before leaning your motorcycle over.

Making use of these tips when you’re riding through the mountains should save wear and tear on your bike and keep you from sliding out or having an accident. If you want to upgrade your bike or become a first-time motorcycle owner, visit our Upper Darby dealership today! Crossroad Powersports offers new and used motorcycles as well as parts and repairs for them and other powersports vehicles. We also have a riding school to help you brush up on vital riding skills. Our dealership proudly serves the whole Philadelphia, PA area, as well as nearby Wilmington, DE and Deptford Township, NJ.