Discover the Best Motorcycling with Colorado Triumph Riders

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January 2025

Colorado winters are a mixed bag. One day, you’re shoveling snow, and the next, the sun is shining, and it’s perfect for a ride. While we revel in the unpredictability, it also means your motorcycle needs to be ready for both short-term hibernation and spontaneous adventures. Here’s how to keep your bike primed and safe during the colder months, along with some tips for riding when the weather plays nice.

Batteries don’t like the cold any more than you do. If your bike sits for more than a week, a battery tender is your best friend. It keeps your battery charged without overloading it, ensuring your bike roars to life when that sunny day calls your name.

Gasoline can degrade over time, and tiny amounts of water in your fuel tank can freeze in sub-zero temperatures. Add a quality fuel stabilizer to your tank if your bike will sit for a couple of weeks or more. It keeps your fuel fresh and prevents icy surprises when you’re ready to ride again.

Cold weather can wreak havoc on tire pressure. Check it regularly, as low pressure can make handling tricky. And remember, tires harden in the cold, reducing their grip. Be cautious, especially when encountering leftover sand from road-clearing efforts or those pesky painted lines and rubber joints that seem even more prone to reducing traction in the winter.

When the weather allows, winter riding can be exhilarating, but it comes with its own challenges. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Colorado roads in winter often feature sand build-ups at intersections, curves, and shoulder areas. Sand can turn a simple ride into a nail-biter if you’re not careful. Plan your braking and acceleration well in advance and stick to the cleanest parts of the lane. Painted lines and road markings can be especially slick in cold and wet conditions. As a pilot, I can tell you that painted areas on a runway are the worst places to try to get traction in my jumbo jet during winter—it’s like sliding on ice. Being on two wheels is no different, so avoid those paint strips whenever you can. 

Just like in the summer when the heat makes rubber snakes (those road seams) unpredictable, cold temperatures make tires harder, reducing their ability to grip. Take it easy on the throttle and avoid aggressive cornering until your tires have had a chance to warm up.

Before you set out, check a motorcycle wind chill chart to understand just how cold it’s going to feel at speed. Dress accordingly. Layering is key, and investing in some windproof gear will make your ride infinitely more enjoyable. Don’t forget your hands—handlebar mitts or heated grips can make all the difference between a fun ride and a frostbitten nightmare.

Winter drivers are less likely to expect motorcycles on the road. Many are focused on navigating icy patches and low sun glare, leaving little thought for two-wheelers. Stay extra alert, wear high-visibility gear, and remember: cars are like paid assassins in the summer, and winter doesn’t make them any friendlier.

Colorado’s winter weather doesn’t mean you have to hang up your helmet for months. With a little prep and a lot of awareness, you can enjoy some incredible rides between storms. Take care of your bike, dress for the conditions, and remember—winter riding isn’t just about the destination. It’s about proving to yourself (and maybe a few skeptical drivers) that two wheels belong on the road year-round.

Ready to gear up for winter? Your bike—and the open road—are waiting. 

Moving forward, all events and rides will now be conveniently located on the Members Page of our website. They’ll still be posted on the Colorado Triumph Riders Facebook page under the Events section and shared in our private group, so you’ll never miss a chance to join in. Be sure to spread the word—the more, the merrier! As always, friends riding any make or model are welcome to join us. Let’s keep building this community, one epic ride at a time.

Keep the rubber side down and the adventure alive!

Eric Nonamaker
Executive Director
Colorado Triumph Riders