Tips for Riding in the Cold

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Hey friends, Hippo Hands just let me know you can use the code: womenadvriders for 10% off your order at www.hippohands.com/ PS: I don't get anything from them, and I'm not sponsored by Hippo Hands. They're just awesome and wanted to share that code with all of you! PSS: I'm planning big trips this year, if you'd like to buy me a gallon of gas you can do that over here: ko-fi.com/asthemagpieflies

[@hippohands]

Discount code: womenadvriders it's still active! Awesome videos!!

[@49Roadmaster]

Thanks for the video. I came here to hear your review on the HippoHands and just saved some money buying them 2 years after your review (Dec 7, 2022)

[@r12rtpilot]

After ten thousand miles with Hippo Hands, I can attest to how wonderful they are, especially with the heated grips on my BMW. Wonderful combo!

[@missopenthrottle]

YES! I tell our customers these all the time! It's the only way i survived all-year riding in Philly! A few more nuggets: - our levers are made of metal. Metal gets cold in the winter. Even with heated gloves and/or hippo hands (I use Oxford Handlebar Muffs) your fingertips are going to get cold if you're constantly touching your levers SO.... get yourself some Oxford Insulevers! - Carry Hot Hands with you! If your core temperature drops while you're stopped for gas or a snack break, you're gonna be colder on the bike. So, I always pop one of those open while I'm stopped (and then do some jumping Jack's before you jump back on). - If you dont want to make the plunge for heated gloves but want more protection than snow gloves, Primaloft is one of the best glove insulators in motorcycle gloves. It can be a bit more spendy but your hands will thank you. - You mentioned getting heated gear as close to your skin as you can BUT you should NEVER wear it as a base layer for the very reason you got blisters, it should always be your mid layer with a thin base layer underneath. - you didnt touch on boots, but I feel like it's a no brainer: waterproof all the way. And a good insulated sock (smartwool, darn tough, bison wool) if you have room. - I know a lot of people dont ride with armored pants so, if you know someone in that category, I'm a huge fan of Carhartt insulated bibs. I wear those over my armored leggings and man....so good. - Face Shield! Not everyone knows about Pinlock systems so, if you're experiencing fogging on cooler rods, consider upgrading to a helmet that accommodates a Pinlock-ready face shield (if your helmet doesn't offer one). Itll help trap air between the insert and the face shield so that your hot breath is less likely to impede your vision (I dont think they're always 100% effective but they sure work well!)

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Love you lady 😘❤️ I've got some great DarnTough Ski socks linked in the Description 👌 Hot Hands can be great but if you're on a long trip it can produce a lot of trash! I prefer rechargeable hand warmers now, just as good without the side effect of adding more things than necessary to the landfills. Also linked in the description. 😉

[@johnjenkins9202]

1 tips I have for cold weather is put on one pair of socks put a grocery bag with no holes in it over top of your sock and a second sock over that your boots can be full of water and your feet will still be warm and dry thanks for all your videos really enjoy watching them

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks John! Are your boots not waterproof?

[@johnjenkins9202]

Most days I'm riding in my work boots for committing so they're not waterproof. Luckily I live in Phoenix so rain is far and few between I ride my Honda VTX 1300 all year round

[@ed.barker7069]

If you're out on a ride and your clothing isn't windproof and it starts to get chilly an old trick is to stuff a newspaper down the front of your top and even down your sleeves. It stops the wind getting through and insulates you a bit. This was an old trick used by British Bikers back in the days before decent Bike clothing.( Obviously you have to find somewhere to stop and buy a newspaper!)😀

[@mr.solitude3352]

I love that you appreciate wearing Scorpion gear, Amanda; so do I. I will inform Scorpion that they have an excellent ambassadorial candidate in you. Happy trails and many blue skies.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks so much! lol if you happen to know the email of someone in their marketing or sponsor department let me know XD

[@kyleboyett6632]

even with good winter gloves a pair of nitrile gloves under your regular gloves is very helpful. Great video Amanda.

[@caseyworthington7092]

Hello from Vancouver Island! I ride all year, and agree with everything you said! Adding to the list, I have heated socks (with the wires, battery operated), which do wonders for the footsies. Otherwise, I've pretty much ended up with the same gear / approach as you. Thanks for another great video!

[@polikalo74]

Love your tip for merino wool singlet, now in winter time here in 🇦🇺. I find heated grips are good to put heat back into your hands and arms. Now just for a heated seat, greetings from Blue Mountains 🇦🇺.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Con Paris!

[@irvinbrannen4301]

Best cold weather review I’ve seen. And I’ve seen a lot. Thank you Amanda.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

!!! This means so much to me! Thank you Irvin!

[@trevorduffin9648]

On my winter trip to the bottom of New Zealand I had both the waterproof layer and insulation layer zipped into my jacket underneath I wore a thermal t-shirt, mountain bike top with high zip neck then a wind stop vest over that. Buff and balaclava, long John’s under pants. Plus barkbustera and heated grips with winter gloves. Temperature was about freezing at the very southern temperature part and I got chilly at times but it was survivable

[@dennyf01]

Put on your rain gear, even if it's not raining. Despite no insulation, it makes a HUGE difference in keeping that "heat bubble" from blowing away.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Yep! It is important if you use your rain gear as a windbreaker too, that it fits you well and you cinch it down as much as you can. If you have rain gear that bubbles up in the wind, that means it's not really breaking the wind all that well :P

[@BreezyRider66]

Thanks for this excellent and comprehensive rundown Amanda. Back in the day we'd stuff newspapers down arms and front of our leather or waxed cotton jackets. At times it was utterly miserable, thankfully now it's quite easy to be comfortable down to freezing, below that we should probably be at home. Rubber side down!

[@harliqwyne]

Wonderful tips. I live in north Texas and I currently wear a pair of buffalo hide chaps, a leather jacket and a thermal face mask that is just thick enough to fill in the gaps with my helmet and that keeps me warm down to about 35-40°. I'll try the snowmobile gloves this year because the last couple of years I have tried winter motorcycle gloves and they just don't come close to keeping my hands warm. Keep it up with the videos. Very informative.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

If the snowmobile gloves don't help I heavily endorse those hippo hands!

[@denisdavies5985]

Heated gear is a revelation. 90 mins commuting in the UK winter can be hell, but a decent heated jacket and grips make it bearable. But still layer up. You can always remove layers.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Yes! Thanks Denis! :)

[@zyonsdream]

Also, from my 10 plus years building up gear for cold weather riding, stay away from other cold weather segments such as skiing, mountain climbing and other activities that require body heat built up from expelling energy for the gear to work like it should. In most cases, cold weather riding is low energy and doesn’t build up body heat. Use layers that will keep you warm with little body movement. I’ve found that Freeze out gear and often base layers for hunters work well. They are often designed to hold in all of your body heat with little ventilation. If you are ADV or back country riding, often gear for snowmobile works well but it’s a balance. You might get cold just riding down back roads but you might get hold wrestling the bike down a trail.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

The struggle of talking about cold weather gear is that there are vastly different levels of movement across the different genre of motorcycling. I'm sure dirt bike riders would appreciate the ventilation provided by some of that gear. It's also important to not build up a layer of sweat under all that gear -in the instance that it is not breathable at all- that's going to just make you clammy and colder. Everyone has different needs, it's important to make judgement calls for your own needs.

[@pedlpower]

Motorcycle specific gear is "twice as expensive and less effective". That has been my experience also except for the Hippo Hands. I've had a pair since forever and they work great.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Yes! There's always exceptions! I was talking more about the "cold & hot weather" base layers they keep trying to sell us 🙄

[@easybutton333333]

Heated grips, heated gear (with a remote thermostat), balaclava (I have little hair), neck thing, layering, always wear my Aerostich gear which stops all wind. Stop every 150 - 180 miles stretch and move about.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Aerostich is a life saver! do you have the two piece or the one piece suit? I find my one piece suit to be heavy as all get out.

[@easybutton333333]

@@AstheMagpieFlies I have bright yellow jacket and black pants. I like the bright yellow, but somehow i get it dirty??

[@lauramccartney4973]

ALSO for what its worth. Check out stores like TJ MAXX for the darn tough ski socks, my local store ALWAYS seems to have them on sale for $9! Thrift store also can be a fabulous resource, like Columbia fleece jackets, for a whopping $3! Yes please! Off season purchases will help budget conscious folks out a lot too.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Yes! Never underestimate thrift stores and garage sales, but always check the tag for what the fabrics are made of! I have a few resources for finding budget gear in the blog post: www.asthemagpieflies.com/blog/layeringbasics

[@almulakimaalimalriadiat9068]

oh my sister from an other mister :) I live in Canada and do same kind of research/thinking so i can keep riding late in season. I could not agree more with tips you gave... specially about the wind... and cutting the wind... Subscribed.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Al!

[@leandromelz]

As I live in Brazil, I do not face the same problems with the cold. However, I intend to cross the Andes again and for sure your tips will be very useful. Thank you, Amanda.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Excellent! Thanks Leandro!

[@robing4712]

All tips so true. My outer layer is rain gear. It was an amazing discovery I could use a light final layer to cut the wind. Silly me thinking it was for rain only. Layering is my thing throughout my gear. Lighter sleeping bag is fine early and late season if I add a down blanket. A thinner liner glove a much warmer with a waterproof shell over top. The difference between a good ride and a miserable one, is wearing the right gear. Cold and wet on the outside - warm and toasty on the inside. Make like a marshmallow. Great tips! Well done lady!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks so much Robin! lol Rain Gear has lots of uses! Part of the key is keeping it tight against the body, loose rain gear (cough frogg toggs) that bubbles up when you go down the highway is still letting air through. Layers are Life! :D

[@johnc8910]

I, also. I wear Tourmaster mesh. With quilted liner, a base layer underneath, and a fleece or knitted layer between, I am good down to about 40F. A Frogg Togg rain suit extends that to about 35F. I live in north Texas, so that is generally good enough.

[@thomaskerr9891]

@@AstheMagpieFlies I keep a set of Toggs just in case of emergency (read, I forgot to put the rain liners in because it's warm out and I get caught in a storm) but in the cold, rain liners in ALL the time.

[@MarkDBoyce]

Years ago when I was young and st . . . . not as wise. I took off on a 5 hour trip through the mountains to Vegas. On the freeway with 3 pairs of socks (had to stop to buy them), hands numb with summer gloves, so cold, so very unprepared. It had gotten down to 33 degrees F. going 70-75 windchill just slightly lower. I stopped at state line tried to warm up, but after midnight everything is closed. I pushed on another hour to the hotel. Got there, thankfully no frostbite (don't really know why not), but I had stopped shivering. Mental capacity had diminished to mumbling and stumbling. I am sure the clerk at the hotel thought I was on something. Got to the room, stripped down, turned heat to max, and got under the covers. It took me an hour to start shivering again. Without a doubt, the most idiotic thing I have ever done in my life, by a factor of 10. Long story short, don't be like me kids, be prepared. Now I commute (in Portland) rain or rainy or drizzling or downpour or cloudy but going to dump any time now or even the occasional sunny day (woo hoo!!). Funny to celebrate that yesterday was in the 60's. Always prepared now even for my 20 minutes on the road. Amanda I just found your channel, Love Love Love it. So refreshing to hear from someone local, but also so raw. You present yourself with such dignity (even when you broke your wrist and still rode for a million miles) and your way with words is fantastic. I love how you are just so matter of fact but also bare your heart in such a way. I do wish my wife would take up riding again, but after the last time she rode and clipped the tail end of a big truck (hauler) she hasn't been back on (of course I insisted she take a training course before she did get back on, so there's that). I noticed your "advice for new (women) riders", think I'll share with her. Anyway, I won't be that creepy guy to say let's go for a ride, but if you see some guy frantically waving to you, I am that dork. Wave back if you feel safe to do so. God bless and keep the black hoops on the deck.

[@icebrakernh]

I recommend a heated seat and bars to go with the layers. So glad I have a Roadmaster to keep me cozy

[@ToddBryantsr]

Great video. I agree, I don't do heated gear. My gear works down to 28F and beyond that I start to worry about ice on the road.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Todd! Yes! A good Layering system can never be replaced with heated gear, although heated gear does help lol

[@thomaskerr9891]

Short, yet comprehensive. Combined with the comments, I feel MUCH more prepared to brave the cold. And saved a few bucks on heated gear :)

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Yay! Thanks Thomas! Stay warm out there!

[@lifesjourneyat50]

I will say again…thanks to you…I would not be riding year round without you showing Hippo Hands a year ago….so this is my third time saying thank you…hahah..

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Aw YAY! Thank you so much, I'm so glad I was able to help a little! :)

[@zyonsdream]

Me: T-Shirt, Freeze out base layer, Alpinestars Guyana Gore-Tex Jacket. Freeze out base layer long johns, jeans. Freeze out glove liners and battery heated gloves. Alpinestars Gore Tex Gloves for wet cold riding. Balaclava and full face Arai XD4 helmet. Bike: bark buster Storm hand guards, heated grips and a taller windscreen. I commute all year in eastern PA. My coldest is negative 10 degrees F. If I expect minimal ice or snow on the roads, I ride.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

yes Battery Powered Heated Gear gang!

[@TonysGarage]

Very well done! Riding in the cold is no joke proper gear is a must. You have a great channel here.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Tony! 😊

[@jimeckenrode1271]

very good you hit on everything that I could think of.

[@RideOnTwo]

Great tips Amanda. I can agree, I do not wish to be riding and shivering for fun! For all of those out in the cold riding I say God Bless, and ride safe! Hope you enjoyed the blue sky!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Glad I'm not the only one that isn't /that/ masochistic 😉👌

[@adventureswithjess6321]

Learning from hikers, that is what I do too. Great info!

[@OregunAdventure]

Cool vid;). My heated grips arrived yesterday for my new bike.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Heck yes! heated grips are life!

[@thatoneguymoto]

I hadn't heard of Hippo Grips before, so thank you! Great tips! Especially the potty break! 😆 Seriously though, those are the kinda things we forget to think about. Hope you find more time to ride this winter, and stay safe and warm! 🤓

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

*Hippo Hands, yesss they're so helpful! HIGHLY recommended. It makes such a big difference when it's chilly (but also it's nice to have dry hands when it's raining too! ) Thanks so much!

[@mikewest5796]

I usually have some hand, feet, and body warmers on the bike and they usually give me a full day of riding. I had a scheduled trip in Florida in January 2018 and it was 19 degrees when we started our day. Those little adhesive warmers sure came in handy.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

They do! And they're great in a pinch. They also produce a lot of trash by the end of the trip so I try to use rechargeable ones 😉👌 Thanks Mike!

[@charlesroper9057]

I first became a fan of yours when I saw you on Forty times Around. Thanks for the Hippo Grips plug. I'm Going to order a pair now.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Charles! *Hippo Hands! Yess! 👏

[@gregbruns8442]

I really enjoyed the bodily tips you shared. I’ll keep up my habit of stopping for donuts. Also, I found that stuffing a fuzzy yellow work glove up under my chin does a pretty good job of stopping the cold from freezing your jaw.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Greg! haha hey whatever works to get you to take a break! ;) Interesting technique!

[@randyking9138]

I've always cut a "shirt front" shape out of silver Mylar (emergency blanket) and placed it outside my long sleeve t-shirt. It works amazingly well and is also wind resistant. And as far as balaclavas or face shield I recommend SA company online. They have some great products and I have been out riding in Canada close to Christmas day.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

That's very creative of you!

[@MOTODANS]

Nice one! Hippo hands look good. I made some heated t shirts for use as a mid layer in winter. Bought 2 plug in heated car seat covers for $50, cut the elements out and glue them to a cheap t shirt. Cut of the 12v plug and fit a same plug and good to go. 2 heat settings goes all day. Used them for the last 2 winters!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Interesting! lol Thanks Moto Dans!

[@paulburgess3088]

Great video again Amanda. I've found that layering is great, around autumn here I put the waterproof liner in my leather and mesh jacket and trousers, rock out the thicker of my two merino sweat tops and that along with my all year round T-shirt has me set until spring. Also found that not riding first thing in the morning, if possible, to avoid the odd frosty start to the day, means my summer gloves last all year. The thinner merino is worn the rest of the year unless the temps go over 25deg (77F) as a wicking layer.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks so much Paul! Merino is such a versatile material! I know riders who wear their merino socks all year round because it's also a great moisture wicking material when it's hot! Yes! Avoiding the morning frost is a great thing to keep in mind! Especially in humid areas where black ice forms over night!

[@rmspeedy1775]

I went to the Army Surplus store and get the cold weather long John's.

[@MkGreene]

Thank you. This is very helpful. Being from Florida I don't think about a lot of this and then am screwed during a cold front.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Mr. Greene!

[@mbeck9680]

Nice cold weather review. I like that you give the viewer different options depending on their budget.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Mike! I try! I think sometimes when I make videos like this people think they need to go out and dump a lot of money at once and that's just not true. It's taken me a good 2-3 years to slowly accumulate all the gear I have. It's not an overnight thing. If you think of buying one piece of high quality gear every couple months are so, it puts less of a strain on your wallet. It also means you can take advantage of off-season sales that happen every year ;) There's lots of more budget friendly option to get good layers too, you don't have to buy new. Used recources like REI Garage Sales, (or even their online resource www.rei.com/used ) is a good place to start, but also Thrift Stores can offer amazing finds, just pay attention to clothing tags so you know what kind of materials your buying. Patagonia also has a used online store.

[@HarleyGirl75]

I really want to try the Hippo Hands! I’ve never heard of them! I always learn something new from your videos!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

😁 yay!! They're seriously amazing.

[@TealMonster]

Awesome tips! I totally almost forgot about layering and how important that is! I’ve ridden for the longest time without any heated grips or hand guards but layering has definitely helped keep me toasty. When I got my new bike, I jumped on getting the windscreen, hand guards and heated grips - I’m super stocked to get to ride more in the cold

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Friend

[@BikeHedonia]

Just wanted to say thanks for the excellent content, it's currently 12C here in Thailand and I am wrapped up in four layers and still freezing. So I'll need all the help I can get if I think I'm going to survive the Himalayas lol. Side note about the hippo hands, homemade versions of them are very popular here in Thailand especially among scooter delivery riders, because it keeps the sun off their hands. Counter intuitive but effective - the key to staying cool usually turns out to be covering up.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

AW thank you lady I really appreciate that! Also yes! learned the lesson about covering up when it's hot early, you learn that one fast when you have to buck hay bales in the height of August in Montana it's 102 AND you're covered in hay. Ya, lightweight pearl button down long sleeves were my best friends XD

[@lpete531]

Great idea about base layer purchase at REI, there products are awesome 👍

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks man 👍

[@davidenete]

Hey, Amanda. Love the video. My wife's temperature limit is 41 degrees. I go a bit colder at 38 degrees...especially if I want to get home in a hurry.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks so much David! Ya, us ladies run cold I swear. It's great in the Summer time though XD It takes a lot more heat for me to feel it than it does for my S.O. lol

[@fredthebarber]

Very well done, Amanda! Excellent tips. Oh man, getting cold on the bike ALWAYS makes me have to pee! I found a good balaclava that I can pull down to uncover my nose and mouth. I need to do this to keep my glasses from steaming up. The balaclava under the helmet (as well as a neck buff) really helps keep me more comfortable inside my helmet on long cold rides.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Fred! XD Interesting fact. For Real! Reducing how much icy air reaches the skin helps so much!

[@HarleyDayRider]

You did a very good job explaining all of the ways to stay warm while riding. I love my HotWired great yes I plug into the bike but it works so well that I use it. I am with you whatever works best for the rider is what you should do. Ride Safe

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks so much :) Yes! I can never emphasize enough that everyone should find what works best for them. Lots of people run a lot warmer than I do too XD I'm always cold lol

[@southpawsgarage]

I USE LATEX MECHANIC GLOVES UNDER MY GAUNTLETS....KEEPS HANDS DRY AND CUTS WIND....GREAT IN RAIN AND COLD....

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Whatever works for you 👍

[@mariajoseandchase]

Awesome quality content, Amanda! Mariajosé's father and my father would LOVE these videos. (They both used to/still take long motorcycle trips.) Can't wait to bring them over to your channel.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks so so much! 🙏

[@ywr969]

as usual, great video with awesome tips. i took the draconian approach & moved south. :-) generally speaking, two moves will make you warmer: lower your altitude, & move closer to the equator. not for everyone, but it works for me.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Whatever works!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks for the tips! I was lucky enough to find a reasonably priced balaclava that fits under my helmet at Costco. It works great and even has enough spare room for my beard!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks friend! :D Excellent find!

[@MrAusadventure]

Meanwhile I'm sitting here watching with the morning sun belting in on my sweaty self on this summer morning. Great tips Amanda. I'm heading for Tasmania, the coldest place in Australia in a few weeks time, so even though it is summer and my trip will be extremely hot at times, it is also likely that I'll be exposed to cold, so I'm giving a lot of thought to my layering and making sure that I don't pack too much on the bike. Another reason for taking a pee stop before you get to the busting stage is that it can be painful (and risky) trying to get all the layers out of the way when you are bursting at the seams. I can talk from experience! lol

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Woohoo! I'm excited for you, that sounds like some awesome exploring!

[@MrAusadventure]

@@AstheMagpieFlies Tasmania is widely regarded as having the best motorcycling roads in the country. There's barely a straight road on the whole island, with amazing scenery, so it will be amazing! Lots of dirt to explore as well. I'll need to get a new helmet camera to do it justice, just trying to decide!

[@srl9727]

Thanks Amanda, I've found a lot of my gear from winter mountain biking has served me well as base layers. Also I found a natural silk balaclava by Alaska Bear that is quite thin on Amazon as I recall. Also in a pinch, nitrile gloves (from your tool kit) as a base layer. As the say, It's easier to stay warm than it is to get warm! Ride safe!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Yess! Bicycle Gear has a LOT of crossover in the motorcycle world. Moto Skivvies and Bicycle Shorts are pretty similar products , but people who paid for the Moto Skivvies aren't happy when I point that out 😂 Oooo Silk Balaclava is a great idea!

[@brianlarsen6242]

Ahh Portland. I grew up in Hood River (a bit more sun than Portland) and now live in New Mexico (at 7400ft). The sun is the best part, makes Bend seem cloudy.

[@brianlarsen6242]

I got a freeze-out neck warmer. Thing is awesome. Tucks in deep. This did make be buy hippo hands. Also might link to Ryan F9. He has a winter gear guide also pointing to snow mobile gloves.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

That's awesome! lol Sun is something you take for granted until you move to a cloudy place XD

[@Rikenglebert7558]

😊😊😊 awesome Hippohands! Looking into those!!! I was a mountaineer before I seriously got into motorcycles. I still backcountry ski &, like you so accurately pointed out, there can be a lot of cross over! I wear many of the same clothing items. I NEVER GO ANYWHERE WITHOUT MY BUFF!!! Bless you Amanda, I have had a bit of a rough couple days & when I saw the topic of this video I thought, “she actually read my comment” then I watched & saw that you actually POSTED my comment :-) you are amazing. Peace

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Rik!! Yess Hippo Hands are liife ! 😉 Of course I read your comment!! I read all the comments I just don't always have time to respond to all of them lol

[@Rikenglebert7558]

As the Magpie Flies just giving you a hard time. You are like a rockstar giving me five at a concert. “She touched my hand! Did you see that?!? She touched my hand!” :-)

[@speedsterjohnny7191]

Wow, I just discovered your vlog. Nice work and many good tips. Your thoughtful approach to the topic was exceptional. You should be writing for a mag like Road Runner. Ride safe.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

!! Thank you so much :D This made my day!! Welcome to the Magpie Parliament!

[@dmedina6835]

Hats off to the queen of the open road & thanks for the tips

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

😊 aww! Thank you!!

[@galynnedavis2996]

Recently found your channel & am a lady rider here in Portland as well... thought I'd double-down on the layers thought and let y'all know that I highly highly highly recommend the Jackaloft jacket from @MoskoMoto -- it is a synthetic puff material used by NASA that works well even compressed - (under armor, etc...) - - - Annnd...I'm just NOW finally ordering me some Hippo Hands...but have been trying to decide between the Alcan and Rogues for KTM 790 Adv S. Have heated grips just installed and installing a seat element in the next week. Love this bike, so want to be able to ride more comfortably in the PNW weather. Oy. Oh oh oh - I know you're a Sena fan - but just wanted to add some info.... Cardo has the best warranty ESPECIALLY when it comes to Cardo's waterproofing - their products are listed as "waterproof" vs Sena's "water resistant" - which is such a big deal in the PNW and those who've come up against some warranty replacement claim failures with Sena (poo!). just my 2cents...or more. Eek!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

We're all allowed our own opinions.

[@HD2O13XL12OOC]

all good things all good things thank you so much I have the annual polar bear ride tomorrow and you just reminded me to put my chin skirt back in 👍❄️

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Joe!

[@clintonfrizzell8467]

It was helpful, thanks Amanda!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

YAY! Thanks Clinton!

[@WillysPerformanceCycleCtr]

Great advice! This is an excellent review of cold weather riding with layers, plus a lot of other useful information! Thanks and ride safe!

[@motogirlz101]

Hi Amanda! I received my Etsy order of my 3 postcards (and goodies). Your artwork is beautiful. Thanks! Keep riding and creating. ~ Motogirlz

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Yay!! Thank You for all your support Motogirlz!! 🙏

[@videobiker9131]

One of your really helpful videos. Thanks!! Happy riding!!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

!! Thanks very much

[@MotoKari]

Getting on the bike already warm is a big thing!! Either from movement, or from a good meal. Many mornings I've hopped on to go to work already feeling chilled, and getting in the wind makes it worse. 🥶 and a great mention on heated gear possibly causing blisters. Still in awe and super thankful for your tips on this topic, thank you for covering it!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

♥️♥️♥️ Thanks Kari!! It always means more coming from you!!

[@rosemaryus-ct6151]

as a new england native, using layers to keep warm is a natural part of upbringing. at work i had to cover six buildings and the winter weather was a force to be reckoned with. no shame here... three pairs of pants : leggings, regular pants and sweatpants; three layers on torso : Tshirt, sweater, winter jacket, and yes three pairs of gloves. On the bike i've used my rain gear to deflect the wind and hold in heat with excellent result. i also found the wired gloves to be a major pain in the butt. for people who find Hippo Hands 'uncool' i can only say that my body doesn't care wtf keeps it warm and fashion invites frostbite. as a city girl, no chickens are available to stuff under my jacket but hey, i'd try it lol. referencing people who work outdoors was a good idea; i'd add any store with hunting gear. there are gloves of varying warmth that my son the electrician loved for the cold weather, as they provided warmth while retaining comprehensive touch. i have a chin skirt in my helmet and love a balaclava; it's not only warm, it holds my long hair down and out of my face. thanks for all u do; u are the best!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

😉👌 thanks Rosemary!

[@rosemaryus-ct6151]

@@AstheMagpieFlies hugs!

[@daveclarke1466]

Came across from Her Two Wheels, pleased I did. Excellent video thanks

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Dave!

[@kirankumarr6803]

Great tips amanda... Keep up the good job i just love the way you present the content.... Lot's of love from Karnataka Bangalore (India) keep rocking

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

♥️ Thanks so much Kiran Kumar!! That means a lot to me!

[@Steve-ps2tw]

Good tips! Definitely gonna check into the hippo grips. Also on a different note, finally got to see and play with wolfman luggage in person recently. They have some cool stuff.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

*Hippo Hands, YES! They are amazing! Hurray, glad you got to experience some Wolfie goodies in person! Thanks Steve!

[@victorkelley5097]

About to pull the trigger on the Hippo Hands, I just don't have heated grips. I have a Harley Softail and finding heated grips for the TBW system is a pain in the ass/expensive as hell haha. I'm about to go on a trip to Colorado/Wyoming this September and I expect to encounter 30's and 40's in super high elevation. I am curious, do you think the Hippo Hands would be effective without the heated grips? Like winter gloves+hippo hands I hope would give me a fighting chance to be comfortable in these conditions. I don't have much experience in the cold as I live in south FL.

[@SmallADVentures1973]

Great video, Amanda, and yes it was very helpful (and aptly timed, LOL)! I budget tip, if you need a wind proof layer in a pinch and don't have a better option, check your rain gear if it's lower priced gear (like Frogg Toggs for eg). I rode for several of the last few winters year round with zero "winter riding gear" (no budget for it 😉), including trips to help out my aging grandparents a few hours away from home using just "regular" clothes I'd wear if I were in the truck that day and going out and about (thermals, jeans, shirt and regular flannel jacket) underneath my Frogg Toggs and mad eit pretty close to fine--not that I'd give away the winter riding gear that I now have and enjoy, LOL, but if on a tight budget it works in a pinch 😊✌

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Yes! Frogg Toggs are great, not super durable though, especially on a Cruiser 😬 learned that the hard way, melted the whole leg off! There are lots of budget ways to shop for good layers for the winter! REI has garage sales almost ever month where you can get returned items for 40-70% off, they also now have an online used gear store. Patagonia also has a used gear online store front! And don't underestimate the good gear you can find at thrift stores (just pay attention to the clothing tags that tell you what the products are made of) or especially Garage Sales in the Summer time, I've found great puffys on good condition for like $20 at Garage Sales all over. 👌 Just because you're on a tight budget doesn't mean you can't have good gear that will keep you toasty.

[@4Evr_Cruzn]

Awsome vid and you brought up some good suggestions too. Like Hippo Hands, need to look into that...thank you.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks so much! :D

[@rajmoran]

Good advice. I like the CB500X, too. Ride safe!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Randy!

[@kimpeterson8208]

Thank you for making this. I'm always looking for ways to improve my riding experience.. pass it on to others. Planning a family off-roading trip for 2021 to celebrate my man of 28 years birthday May 2021. Our son is old enough to ride his own bike as a senior. Going from coos Bay toward the direction of crater lake, burns, through Umatilla National forest to Walla Walla. Taking in a lot of your light packing tips, gear, etc. Going to try and do half the awesome footage you did. I want to learn how to make a video lol.

[@lauramccartney4973]

Wonderful video,as always, all great points! I'm amazed being an all weather horseback rider and hiker how much info, and gear (camping wise) has translated well to riding !! For SURE don't want to get so hot as to sweat before riding or you WILL freeze!!!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks so much Laura! YES! So much of the basics of staying warm in the outdoors crosses over to all kinds of sports, for some reason a lot of people just ..... forget that when they get on a bike lol

[@pacopetepnw3434]

PNW! Great job Amanda! ..you know how we do it! :))

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Pete!

[@speedfinder1]

Amanda, I have two words for you. "Heated Gloves" if you don't have any yet, in the years to come, (Having broken a bone in your wrist a while ago) Eventually, you will see the value of Heated Gloves. I even wear mine off the motorcycle when I need a bit of pain relief!

[@andypollock9239]

Do the Magpie dance to stay warm

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

ha!

[@scottquier929]

OK - You just cost me $50!! I live in VA where the temps in the morning have been sub-freezing. So the ride to work can be a bit chilly. There have been times in the last couple of weeks where my fingertips have been completely numb by the time I arrived at work. So, I just bought a solution - you cost me money!! Here's hoping the solution works! Also, that tip at the end about fatty foods -- that was so on-point for me. Got a 100-mile (one-way) trip coming up this weekend and that tip will probably save my bacon (yes, pun was intended :) ) So Thanks for that! Anyway - great video and very good content! Cheers

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Lol sorry Scott! But I do hope your hands stay warmer 😉👌 thanks!

[@richardmourdock2719]

Amanda,; Hippo hands? I'd noticed those things several times in your vids and always wondered what they were. Are they bike specific? I agree on the wiring stuff to the bike. Just a hassle I don't want to deal with. All that I ever seem to have to deal with is super cold hands and yes I have heated grips... Oh yes, one other, I added on my Super Tenere, on either side of the fuel tank, a clear heavy duty clear plastic "wing". that are sold for $80 custom to the bike, I think mine probably cost me two hours and fifteen dollars. Well worth it though. Stay warm, stay safe.. Gotta do some more checking on Hippo hands...

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Richard! Hippo Hands are pretty universal in my experience. If you get a pair and combine it with your heated grips it will make a nice little hand oven!

[@davidcurtis2884]

As always Amanda, your tips and info are great. Really appreciate how you share the simple knowledge and help others enjoy the world of adventure riding. Here’s to you! Thank you so much!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thank you David! 😊

[@alanbstard4]

chin " curtain " is a great idea

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

😉👌

[@tommydacheese2185]

Thank you Amanda

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thank you Tommydacheese !

[@BellsRidesAboardSeaBoss]

Amanda great tips, just got new heated grips I can’t wait for the weekend to try them out

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Woooohooo ! Warm hands Revolution!

[@sparkyobrian6417]

great video ! , I carry back up layers on long trips incase ( when- ) the electric gear takes a @#$%. in addition to pinlock I have a helmet with the heated snowmobile shield for fogging. works great

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Yass! 👌 Being prepared with layers is vital! Being able to take layers off and put them on again is a key to a good trip 😉

[@roger4375]

I am going to blame something on you, and give you credit for something else. After watching a few (probably more) of your videos, this one in particular, I ordered the Bike Master heated handlebar grip option for my V-Strom. Ordered it yesterday, got it today. Can’t beat Amazon Prime for fast delivery. I hammered the grips in place and tested it with a jumper battery. Works great! All I need to do is tear half the cladding off and make the connection to the distribution box under my seat. So, you get the credit for getting me off my butt and putting the system on order. What I am going to blame on you is the fact that I’ve just spent the last two hours trying to unglue my fingers from the small tube of super glue in the box. It ruptured in my hand. Had it not been for you, I would have retained my dignity and not entered my house via the garage entrance and nonchalantly stroll by my wife and try to get my fingers unglued by running hot water on them. Evidently hot water acts as a catalyst and made the superglue harden up and crystallize and I was able to break free. See what an affect you have on people, we try to take good advice and we wind up gluing our fingers together. I am so grateful this did not happen while I was scratching my nose or other random part. My right pinky and ring finger were solidly glued together to the palm of my hand as if I were failing miserably in an attempt to make the Vulcan 🖖 greeting. I am hopeful your shoulders are broad enough to carry this guilt I am laying on you. Your good idea, miserably implemented. In light of the glue incident I am now a little hesitant to buy the Sena 10c communicator/camera. I seriously hope you are taking this humorously....is that even possible to do?.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Lol I take full responsibility Roger 😂 thanks for the laugh!

[@fortheloveofknobs]

Great job Amanda! I have a balaclava that might work for you! I'll show it to you some time!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Nathan :D

[@TheBreenGene]

Good tips thanks Amanda

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Michelle!

[@perhennung]

Excellent , thanks!

[@NetMillionaire]

Hippo hands brilliant ❤

[@kennethvernonprivate]

...Awesome, a few things I didn't know! Thanks Magpie :o)

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Yay! Thank you so much! Glad I could share something new with you!!

[@denisrailey777]

Great advice, thankyou.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks for Watching it Denis!

[@hectorrivera9894]

Great advice and tips! Thank you 🙂

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks Hector!

[@FeedOnSpeed]

thanks for sharing your knowledge, def going to try and follow some of these next time i go out haha

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks lady! :) Hope they help you stay a little warmer

[@ScramblerStories]

I may or may not have stuffed hand warmers inside my clothes/gloves. The things one will do to stay warm on long cold highways...

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Lol hand warmers are great in a pinch, but by the end of the trip they produce a lot of trash! After I found some reliable rechargeable hand warmers that's all I use now lol

[@ScramblerStories]

@@AstheMagpieFlies Very true!

[@Shortbikerblondie]

I'm a cold creature 😂😂 I have heated grips and fulll gear 🙂👍

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

I feel that! :D I'm cold freaking all the time XD

[@pistolpete6321]

Awesome tips, thanks!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

Thanks for watching it 😊

[@colbyjoe2]

It's supposed to be nice out tomorrow!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

YESSSSSS I actually saw the sun again yesterday!

[@MrPepsilon]

Newspapers! Put one as a midlayer over your chest or inside your pants! Great windbreaker and will keep you warm even when the paper is wet due to the many layers. I have used this myself both in cold Sweden and in the Malaysian Highlands during rain and chills. There was not much else available in the eighties, but it worked good enough til you got indoors.

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

That's one way to do it. Although I will say I prefer my fleece and polyester over newspaper lol