🔥 How to ride a motorcycle in very hot weather: A complete guide to avoid suffering in summer

June 13, 2025

Traveling by motorcycle in summer has a special charm. Long days, dry roads, and landscapes that shine in the sun. But it also means facing one of the biker's greatest enemies: extreme heat. High temperatures can turn a dream ride into a nightmare if you're not well prepared. From the choice of equipment to hydration and riding pace, every detail counts when the thermometer soars above 35 degrees.

Here's a comprehensive, detailed guide to enjoying your motorcycle in the summer without compromising your health or enjoyment , based on real-life experience and professional advice.

1. Summer technical clothing: it's not a whim, it's safety

One of the first temptations when it's hot is to take off your gear: jacket, gloves, pants... A serious mistake.

Summer gear exists for a reason : it protects from the asphalt and the sun, while allowing effective ventilation.

What characteristics should it have?

• Ventilated jackets and pants : Look for garments with mesh or perforated Cordura panels. Some brands incorporate strategic ventilation zippers.

• Light colors : reflect sunlight, helping to reduce body temperature.

• Technical underwear : Wearing breathable T-shirts and tights (such as Dryarn or Coolmax) helps wick away sweat quickly.

⚠️ PRO tip: Don't wear cotton T-shirts under your jacket. Cotton retains moisture and increases the feeling of warmth.

Recommended equipment

• Well-ventilated helmets : models with front and rear vents. You can also opt for visors with UV protection.

• Perforated gloves : Make sure that although they are lightweight, they still have protection on the knuckles and palm.

• Summer boots or ventilated motorcycle shoes , but always with reinforced ankles and toes.

2. Constant hydration: the body's fuel

Dehydration is one of the biggest dangers when riding a motorcycle in hot weather. In addition to fatigue and cramps, it can cause dizziness or fainting: a lethal combination on two wheels.

How to stay hydrated on the road:

• Drink before you feel thirsty : If you feel thirsty, you are already somewhat dehydrated.

• Carry a Camelbak-type hydration pack . You can safely drink on the go.

• Avoid sugary and caffeinated drinks , as they increase dehydration.

• Take breaks every 90-120 minutes to drink at least 300-500 ml of water.

🧂 Extra tip: On long or very hot rides, add a pinch of salt or electrolytes to your water to replenish your minerals.

3. Choose your driving hours and pace wisely

Driving between 12:00 and 17:00 is practically suicidal in the middle of August. Not only because of the direct heat, but also because the asphalt can reach 60°C, which affects tires, brakes, and also your performance.

Ideal schedule for shooting in summer:

• Start early (6:30 - 7:00 a.m.): enjoy the freshness of the morning.

• Long stop for lunch and rest between 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

• Get back to work in the afternoon (5:30 - 8:00 PM), when the temperature begins to drop.

Driving rhythm

• Don't force it. Heat dulls reflexes.

• Avoid very high speeds, which generate more heat in the engine and in the body due to friction.

• Monitor engine temperature, especially if you're off-roading or stuck in city traffic.

4. Planning and stops: cool down body and mind

A good summer route is planned differently. It's not about covering long distances, but rather enjoying it safely. Prioritize shaded routes, curves, and high elevations (less hot than on the plains).

Keys to planning:

• Use weather apps (like Windy, AEMET, or WeatherPro) to avoid heat waves.

• It includes shaded stops with water : gas stations, rivers, viewpoints, rural bars, etc.

• Avoid long highways : they are hot, monotonous and do not refresh you.

• Bring a small towel or T-shirt to wet and place on the back of your neck at each stop. It lowers your body temperature very quickly.

5. The motorcycle also suffers from the heat

Your motorcycle needs extra care in the summer. The heat directly affects the performance of the engine, brakes, and tires.

Tips for taking care of your motorcycle in summer:

• Check the coolant level before you leave. If your motorcycle is air-cooled, avoid traffic jams and slow hills.

• Pay attention to your tire pressure : when the weather is hot, the air expands, and the pressure varies. Measure it when the tires are cold.

• Lubricate the chain well : it dries faster with heat.

• Don't fill the tank to the top : gasoline expands with heat.

🚧 Avoid stopping on very soft tarmac or loose dirt surfaces with the side stand on: this could cause the motorcycle to sink and fall.

Other useful tips for shooting in summer

Wear sunglasses or a tinted visor

They protect your eyes from glare and help prevent eye fatigue. But be careful! Don't use them at night.

Sunscreen on face and neck

The sun also penetrates clear visors. An SPF 50 sunscreen is your ally if you're going to be exposed for hours.

Avoid synthetic underwear or thermal compression underwear

Wear clothes designed to breathe, not what you wear to the gym.

Add a ventilated seat net

These nets raise the seat a few millimeters and allow air to circulate between your body and the seat. Very effective.

Use cooling vests

Some vests absorb water and release cooling for more than two hours. Highly recommended for days with temperatures over 35°C.

Bonus: Quick checklist for summer routes

• ✅ Helmet with good ventilation

• ✅ Summer jacket and pants

• ✅ Hydration backpack

• ✅ Sunglasses / Smoked Visor

• ✅ SPF50 sunscreen

• ✅ Technical underwear

• ✅ Electrolytes or salts

• ✅ Spare clothes to change into upon arrival

• ✅ Chain lubricant

• ✅ Small towel to wet at stops

Shooting in summer is possible, if you know how

Riding a motorcycle in the middle of summer doesn't have to be a nightmare. With the right equipment, good planning, and certain habits, you can turn a sweltering day into a great experience. Listen to your body, protect your machine, and adapt your pace to the conditions.

It's not about escaping the heat, but rather mastering it . And that's something only those who know how to prepare their route intelligently and in advance can achieve.

So now you know: riding a motorcycle in very hot weather isn't a problem if you follow these tips. Your body, your bike, and your memories will thank you.

Did you like this article?

Share it with your biker group and help us help more travelers enjoy the summer on two wheels. And if you have any secret techniques for beating the heat on a motorcycle, tell us in the comments!

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