Keeping my motorcycle up and running during the winter?

Question

I have a 1994 Kawasaki Ninja 250, and I live in Massachusetts. How do I keep my bike in working condition during the winter months?

Any other tips for riding in the winter and snow?

How different is driving in the winter/snow (I KNOW ITS COLD). How do the characteristics of the performance of the bike change?

Thanks a lot.

Answer 1

first of all, your bike doesnt have water so you dont need to worry about antifreeze. you do need to run a thinner oil, and make sure that you warm the bike up before you take off. Buying and hooking up a "Battery tender" at nite will make sure it starts each morning.

Tires are a must for snow, see your dealer for fitment.

Now the important part, I know you will ride alot when there isnt snow, You must have real winter riding gear. Normal gloves wont last a mile at 50 mph and 30 deg f out. You need winter riding gloves, you must wear a real winter motorvyvle coat, with layers undernieth (But coat oversized), you need a helmet thats full face, with anti fogg vents as shield will fog up as soon as you stop, you will need to wear thick pant with chaps over them as the wind will go through your pants. Wear insulated boots, NO STEEL TOES, or you will loose your toes, and you must take breaks. Ahhh yes, that area between helemt and jacket, get it covered with a pull down face mask or scarf. Else you will be sorry !

Answer 2

definately no riding in snow or ice, especially on the road, unless u have a death wish.  I've been racing for 22 years now and the first race in illinois is at the end of feb and it's on dirt there is usually snow involved and I dread it every year... its way to slick even if you stud the tires.  Guarenteed that 250 will be trashed within the first couple winter rides.  Be safe riding can be deadly if you don't know what your doing.

Answer 3

Buddy, I raced dirtbikes as a kid and icebikes in the winter.  Do not plan on riding in the snow or ice.  On the icebikes we had screws in the tires and still dumped (often hard) nearly every weekend, you will do the same.  Your best bet would be to only take it out on warm days when the road is clear of snow and ice.  I would just forget about riding in the snow.

Answer 4

I'm in California. What is winter?