Bike Tests in Very Cold Weather

[Nico]

Does anyone know if the examiner is inclined to be easier on you in very cold weather? I'm going to try and wrap up as warm as possible but my hands are still getting very cold with loads of layers and winter gloves. Doing 99% of U-turns well when I practice at weekends, but if i'm out on the bike for a good stint before the test my hands may get very cold and make clutch control harder.

Stupid question I know, just wondering if anyone had any experience of cold weather winter tests.

Still riding everyday to work, but i'm cold now.

[Reddit]

Hi Nico, from my experience I would say not, you are expected to ride to the conditions, to the same standard as always. If the weather is really bad it will be called off.

[bulldog63]

why not get heated grips fitted they will keep your hands toasty warm

[Nico]

Could do on my bike, but i'm doing DAS and that won't have them.

[grotbag]

Can't you get some thermal inner gloves or do lots of practice the day before and just an hour or so before your test?

[Nico]

I've just ordered some inner gloves and ahheehhhmmm long johns.. I am still wearing leathers though. Got cold killers top and hiking socks with socks underneath too. Do you think that a winter jacket and trousers would be a better bet? Leathers can be quite restricted around the knee because of the armour. Is there any recommended trousers that keep you dry and warm, but give more movement?

[bilbo141]

a lot of textile clothing has thermal and waterpfoor liners as well as being windproof as for what fits best thing is to get down to your local bike clothing dealer and try on a few pairs - you could buy of the net but spend ages returning them if they dont fit properly and again choice also comes down to what you can afford or how much your willing to part with

[grotbag]

I wear leather cruiser style jeans rather than leather biker trousers, so don't have the problem with the armour / padding. Can't you remove the armour?

How about wearing a textile jacket on top of your leather one? If you keep your body warm, your extremities will stay warmer longer.

[Nico]

I'll have a look on Saturday then. Looked at some internet stuff, but as you said, you can't try them on. Probably do with a high viz vests aswell. The snow we've had here has driven me to the car today!

[bilbo141]

try here for hi vis gear - there may even be a branch near you

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