I may need to ride in sleet and snow conditions on my 2019 es equipped with new Michelin road GT6 tires. Anyone have any observations as to how the bike handled? What to look out for other than black ice?
Riding in sleet,snow conditions
- Thread starter ecc1124
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RossKean
Well-known member
Have you ridden a motorcycle in snow before? Just my opinion but if you have not, an FJR is a very poor motorcycle to learn on.
Torque, weight and tires not made for snow/ice is an accident waiting to happen (literally). Traction control and ABS might save your bacon, but I wouldn't count on it.
Torque, weight and tires not made for snow/ice is an accident waiting to happen (literally). Traction control and ABS might save your bacon, but I wouldn't count on it.
When it comes to riding on ice and snow..... Uber.
I've done it on my 1980 KZ650, but after that experience, I swore never again.
Geezer
Parsimonious Curmudgeon
I have ridden in snow, once. My only advice is don't do it. You can make better time, and be safer, by walking.
I've ridden both my Gen1 and Gen3 bikes in some amount of light snow / even slushy road conditions (not by choice!), and had no big issue - because each time it turned out to be on slower / straight roads.
Per others' opinions here, still not recommended. An increased level of sphincter factor for sure!
Per others' opinions here, still not recommended. An increased level of sphincter factor for sure!
RossKean
Well-known member
A few flakes or a skim of slush isn't awful - not necessarily much worse than cold/wet. Anytime you have accumulated snow such that the rubber doesn't meet the asphalt you have a real problem. Not to mention ice which may be hidden by a thin layer of snow, or black ice. Road may be fine until you hit a shady area when it all goes to hell pretty quick. Not worth the risk, especially if you are not experienced with riding (or even driving) in such conditions.
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Riding on roads actually covered with snow or ice where rubber isn't touching pavement on a small bike is sketchy. On a 600+ pound FJR more so.
Unless you're going to screw in studs to your tire--brand or model is essentially pointless.
I'd look for another mode of transportation or have a backup plan to park the bike if the road gets covered.
Unless you're going to screw in studs to your tire--brand or model is essentially pointless.
I'd look for another mode of transportation or have a backup plan to park the bike if the road gets covered.
I think I will hold off - it looks like a lot of potential icy roads now and that is something I tried as a kid on a 10 speed bike - not good.
