My tip as a fairly new rider who was getting easily put-off by strong gusty winds is to try earplugs if you haven't already. Even if it is just on windy days, it makes a huge difference. With the added wind noise, it can overwhelm your senses a bit and feels like you are just getting pounded sometimes. Especially new riders not used to tough conditions, 'overwhelming' really can be the best way to desribe it. Earplugs cut out 90% of that distraction right off the bat, and leaves you to just feel what the bike is doing, how it is moving, and adjust accordingly. For me I was very tense during gusty cross wind and got easily overwhelmed, but earplugs made it much much easier to deal with.. I don't really hear anyone recommending it when it comes to dealing with a windy rides, so thought I would mention it for anyone who struggles with the wind. It helps a great deal with fatigue as well.. Cheers! Also sticking a knee out on the side the wind is coming from is a huge winner!!
RhysStar That makes complete sense! If anything, it’s the noise of the wind that can be more intimidating than it’s actual physical affects. I’ve learnt to just loosen up as a deathgrip will only make you act like a sail against the wind and also tire your arms
Totally agree on earplugs, just the soft foam ones you can still hear sirens and horns, just then relentless wind barrage goes away. As a new rider, I find it useful .
Weight is your friend in windy rides. So I found leaving my skinny wife at home and picking up a bigger girl, helps with wind drag and stability. Other than that, just some clean underwear and goggles will work.
This video SAVED me today. Started riding a month and a half ago, got on a bridge and the wind was whipping my little ninja 400 all over the place! I was so scared. And I happened to watch this video right before riding. This really works!!! Thank you Dan Dan!!!
Wish I could say the same, I was in the EXACT same situation, new rider with ninja 400 with extreme winds, egregious amounts of pop in my pants, looked up this vid right after for next time
I wish I had watched this yesterday! For the leg trick with cross winds. I'm a new rider this summer (2008 1200 nightster with a windshield) had to ride in winds up to 30mph for 110 miles. I did have to stop about 3 times to rest as my wrist were getting sore. But finally just stoped about 45 min short of home and parked my bike at the town before mine and got a ride from family the rest of the way. I knew I was past the safe point of driving. I wouldn't have gotten half that distance if I hadn't had a windshield. I kinda felt embarrassed but at least my bike and myself are safe and sound.
Had to do this the other day. I've had my bike for only a few weeks. Went and grabbed the bike the next day. Safety is most important. Know your limits.
I just passed MSF today and went out for my first ride. its a 40 minute ride most of it on a straight rode where people generally go 60-65mph in a 55 zone. so it was my first time going that fast and the cross wind was crazy. Im 185lbs on a cbr300r and the wind was tossing me around like i was its bitch. Nobody ever told me about wind. I was scared shitless that i was going to die on my first day out. at one point it almost tossed me into the other lane and i swear i felt my back tire wobble. i just stayed tucked and kept her at 62mph. it was terrifying lmao.
i feel you . i just got my suzuki burgman 200 today from the dealership and i thought that i could drove it from the dealership to my house. Like 60-45 is the speed limit, i tried going on 55mph. but Lord God even just 45mph my motorcycle was wobbling and the wind keeps tossing me to the left side. the Crosswinds , trucks and cars wind tunnel didn't help me at all. we decided to get a tow truck. it was a hella experience but that won't stop me from riding my scooter.
Yeah you cannot squeeze the tank on scooters. Surprisingly my Vespa is fine in all weather, although have an Xmax (the under seat fits two helmets and two jackets) and got smashed by 80 km cross winds in a 60km zone riding home one night with a half face helmet. I now check weather reports for changes and ear phones. Music to relax helps too.
I rode a naked during my bike lessons and only recently had a chance to ride a scoot (650 burgman) with a large windscreen. Man that was a *weird* experience taking that onto the highway. Now I totally understand how people get one of those things for daily commuting to/from work if it involves bad weather or lots of windy highway runs. It had a huge aftermarket screen on it and it was extremely comfortable because of it.
Was headed out of town during windy conditions, we didn’t realize it was very high conditions. It really was scary. I definitely got physically worn out and then it just felt unsafe. Semis pulling off freeway and cars with blinkers on added to the anxiety. We pulled over and stopped. Ended up canceling our trip for that day. It wasn’t fun.
I tried your leg trick and it works great! I didn't think that would help but it makes me feel so much more stable! You're the only person I've heard say that, I'm gonna share it with my friends who ride
Don't forget the urban wind tunnel effect in towns and cities, especially with high buildings. The gaps between them can really funnel cross-winds into a heavy blast, which can catch you out (e.g. when coming out of shelter into cross-junctions or passing side-streets).
I've only been riding for a month now and today I caught some terrible cross wind from left to right. Let me tell you, it scared the crap out of me, especially since it was the first time I had ever experienced something like this. The wind kept pulling me to the right. I really thought I was going to crash because it just felt like I was not in control. I pulled over for a bit to get myself together and kept on my way. Thankfully, I made it safely. Thank you for this knowledge! I will definitely try some of these tips if I ever get caught in that situation again.
years ago I used nothing but youtube content from you guys. yummie, dandan, ride like a pro Jerry. taught myself to ride on a beat up 80s en450 with 35k miles. the clutch cable would just come off the lever. the whole throttle assembly would pull off the bar tubes. everything about that bike was used and abused. it even fell over on the trailer ride home. perfect learner bike kept you on your toes. due to the condition it was not safe to ride it far. it could not hold highway speeds. I did learn about wind when a big gust almost pushed me into traffic in the next lane. fast forward a few years and a newly ignited passion for being on two wheels appears. this year I got myself a 2014 ctx dct to get into the sport and meet one of my dollarstore super hero's with f1 technology from tech school nerd days. now I have something reliable to blockstomp I call it. so I go yesterday and find myself on the part if the scenic route that I'm not familiar with in my locality. I know I have to gently push the limits. it was so windy there on the highway part that I found myself getting pushed around. and to my surprise it was fairly tiring! you folks should get a tax cut for the valuable techniques that you share with young people and potential new riders. I was able to teach myself how to operate a motorcycle on the roadways safely with content from people like you. and yes I wear the goofy jacket with the pads even though it's hot and im.riding the groms fat cousin.
A windshield makes a world of difference too. Buy one that's easily removable if you really don't want it for some rides, cuz there's always gonna be days when it helps a ton 😉 There are a thousand universal styles to find something that looks good on your bike, regardless of what you ride 👍👍
Hey Dan, a trick I recently learned to help with the wind on the highway: put my feet on the passenger pegs. This shifts my upper body forward into the wind and requires less energy than fighting the wind in the full upright position.
Excellent video I love aerodynamics. You bring up some excellent points. Slicing through the wind is half the fun. I’m cruising from Vegas to LA right now we’ve got 30 mile an hour Crosswinds. I love riding safely behind trucks because it keeps cars away from me ( like swimming with dolphins if there are sharks)
I appreciate all your riding tips and what's very cool about your vid's is you genuinely CARE about helping new riders and the tips you suggest are helpful. An additional idea that is revolutionary probably, TIP #6 Slow down Riding in High Wind especially cross wind, the difference between 65 mph and 55 or even 50 is HUGE !! A lot better to arrive alive. I know this is not a popular subject for people who ride motorcycles, slowing down a bit lessens the fatigue too. So, drive faster with a bunch of breaks or slow down and not need a bunch of extra stops. Just something I was reminded of this time of year ( late fall) in the Mountain / valley open highways in Colorado where I live and ride.
I am 31, riding motorbike from the age of 17. I always thought I am an informed and knowledgeable rider. In Auckland motorways, it sometimes gets so windy, it is a struggle to keep control of your motorbike. I am not only thinking of changing my motorbike. This guy really makes sense and thanks to him.
I use to have a V-Star 650 a few years ago and with it being so light the wind would wear you out so for cruisers it helps alot the more they weigh the more stability you have in windy conditions
i ride in the wind on the scariest place possible the skyway bridge in florida, i lean in, and go over 90 mph easy . the more you do it the easier it gets
That leg trick saved me this pm. Insane cross winds gusting towards on coming traffic really was in trouble but your tip kept the bike stable and pretty predictable. Always windy here in the Algarve of Portugal so I will be riding leg out from now on!
thanks for the tip of adjusting your leg to create a counter drag to crosswinds. Had to cut back a planned weekend ride because of the wind buffeting me all over the road.
I saw this video a couple of years ago (started riding in Sept 2020) and have been using the "sail" technique when dealing with crosswinds. Today, I was riding over a looong 2 lane bridge and encountered strong crosswinds on an otherwise calm day. Even at "full sail" and a slight lean, it was a struggle to stay in the right lane. Thankfully there was no traffic. I white knuckled it but made it. If I didn't know the "sail" technique I may not have been able to stay on the road and there was no shoulder.
New rider in uk, I live in a pretty rural area and commute on a 60mph open bendy road with hills and dips etc so when its windy it can be pretty unpredictable and unforgiving my bike is only entry level and pretty light too which maybe doesn't help but I'm gonna definitely try the leg positioning as everything else I tend to do already.
The leg thing you did I was riding tonight. Very windy and cold tonight. My leg did it naturally when I started thinking back. Also with the semi move to the far right and move towards the semi a bit as it passes.
Im a new rider n this morning to work I almost blew onto my right lane .. good thing I was on the far left or else I woulda ended up in a predicament or panicked … I kept cool n fought the wind .. it was kinda scary .. thank u DanDan for these tips .. I searched n I was so glad it was you teaching me 💯🙌🏽
Thanks for the tips Dan! Went out riding today, and still rather new to motorcycles, had to cross over a bridge here in The Bay that is known for high cross winds, even feel it in my car, so I was little nervous, kinda putting it off a few times when I was out riding. Idk what it was today, but I just felt like just going out farther than I usually do. I had remembered what you said in this video and decided to tackle it. I reduced my speed kicked my knee out and added a slight pressure fighting the wind. It was still a little rough but I made it through, also got to ride farther than I have before. Thanks to your advice I was able to explore my area in new ways, can’t wait for my next ride.
Definitely stop! I had a bad wind here in Nevada and it was a cross wind. I was moving all over my lane. I just got off the freeway and took the streets cause it made me feel very uncomfortable.
I had bad cross wind last week. Had to stop and ended up getting pushed into gravel 🙄. I didn't crash but i had to put my bike down. Thank you for this
I installed an up down windshield made by Puig which I pull up extended for a long highway cruise worked great for head wind. A light weight bike gets blown around more like surfing lol. I stop every hour for sure.
While riding my motorcycle from Colorado back to Texas, I encountered 60 MPH wind gusts in Arizona and a thunderstorm in Texas. I noticed that lowering the windshield made my bike more aerodynamic and easier to handle in windy conditions. Another great tip is to drive next to a trailer in a thunderstorm. This will protect you almost 100% from the wind and even sideways rain. good lock with the Harleys (they can't lower the windshield my Goldwing can LOL!
With the dust and the wildfire smoke, it would be nice if there were a full face helmet with a respirator seal and a 3M filter bayonet. I love my 3M facepieces, and the 2297 filters (lifesaver in wildfire season, they smoke to basically fresh air and don't noticeably restrict breathing). Side benefit: no fogging issues on the visor, because the intake check valves are inside the nose and mouth portion, even if the filters vent into the visor as well.
for the first time i can say i actually learned something from a youtibe video about riding that i'll actually put into practice, thats some great advice. 3:50
I spend a lot of time riding in the wind in high country western state areas. These tips are good. Wind is not fun on adventure or dual sport bikes or anything tall. Any bike can be made worse by adding a top box on something on top of the top box. Recently wanted to have a better option than my lighter weight and tall old BMW F650. Tried the 1250 GS on a windy day - moderately better. Ultimately bought an R1250RT, and spent last summer all over highways, interstates and mountain roads with trucks and RVs all around. Soooo much better. It's not just about the weight, it's where the weight is and how it works the aerodynamics.
I agree with riding around Tucson and the high winds. I just came back from a ride down to the Sierra Vista area and the wind was rough and exhausting. I would love to do a meet up!
Fun fact as a truck driver not only do I create winds but I also feel the effects of wind as well. The semi going by a car the car feels a little bit the semi going by another semi we feel it a lot more because of our lack of Arrow Dynamics. I know the spelling is wrong
I wish I had seen this years ago! I remember a trip through South Dakota, and the crosswind was insane. Was pushing me all over the place since my bike is so light. But the knee out trick would have been super helpful!!
I'm a new rider and I got scared riding on the highway and overtaking trucks with strong crosswinds. I kept getting pushed to the left! I'll try the leg thing next time. Thanks
Tailwinds are *great.* If it's a 30mph wind, you're going 80 down the road, effective airspeed is only 50. Far more comfortable. If you're just out for a cruise though it's bad news, on the way back you're hitting 110mph effective airspeed and that gets tiring. Especially after you've been feeling 50
Great points. I live in El Paso, TX and I'm sure the wind is probably just as severe as where you are. The other day I was passing a rig coming down a mountain in a dust storm. As I was going around a corner a sudden gust hit me from the right at the same time as the buffeting from the front of the truck was pushing me the same way. It can be spooky turning that hard towards the front of a truck when the wind suddenly goes away.
So what about unpredictable winds? If it turns all the time so you don't know when or from where the next gust will come, that's when I'm most stressed out on the bike.
You can also keep your eyes out for objects like flags, trees, grass to get an idea what kind of wind you are dealing with and how strong it is when you ride. Heavy cross winds make riding a chore.
A little while back my car broke down and my only form of transportation was a 200 cc scooter, weighing in at less than 200 pounds. I was commuting home from the base of some mountains several times a week with winds that easily exceeded 30 miles an hour. My bike could just keep up with traffic in ideal conditions. First time I experienced that I pulled over and gave myself some time to think about the best option and prepare myself. Your first time in wind, especially on a small bike is SCARY! If you're concerned, find a safe place to stop, chill out and visualize your commute. using your leg like a sail works wonders. If you have a backpack or anything that will cause drag, see if you can mount it on your passenger seat or in a top case. Add any extra layers you have on top of your jacket, as wind chill can be pretty harsh. I managed to get home safe, and over time it just became a part of my day. Always be mindful of your environment at all times, and never get too confident. Right when you think you've learned it all, something can always throw you for a loop.
Hi Dan, thanks for all the awesome videos they really help. I've been into it for about a year now and wind really still freaks me out. It's those sudden bursts that a hard to cope with. I might try a different helmet my Kabuto rt33 is bad for letting alot of wind in. Cheers from QLD Australia.
You're the man bro!!!!!! Thank you! Was caught by surprise in the southern California hills, fought against some strong crosswinds! Ill apply your advice next time!!!!
It’s not just the profile of you and the motorcycle, but the wind flow underneath the bike catches those little cooling fins on the motor and helps to push the bike sideways!
Crosswind when going on overpass or going through under pass on the highway ,my tip is to watch semi truck trailer when going through under pass & over pass or Canyon pass their make their trailer shift little Side to side from quick crosswind
I'm watching this now cause the wind is blowing about 60kmph outside and I have to drive home for 26km and over a mountian pass on my 250cc in a few hours. And it will be raining soon.. wish me luck
I had this happen to me today cars were passing me 😁😂😂 i have a scoot 125cc was nervous from all the wind of course my scooter is alot lighter and no windshield guess i shouldd get one what about wind tips for a scooter
Wish I'd found this vid before riding my 200lb 125cc bike along some very open and windy roads as my first longish ride. Can't wait to get my heavier cb750 on the road that'll definitely help along with these tips aswell
I’ve been in some gnarly cross winds that blow me across a full lane. It can be very stressful . I think relaxing as much as possible, while holding on tight with good body position. A tip I picked up from a guy I talked to while pulled off in heavy wind was to slow down a bit with higher rpms. I felt like speed was beneficial in keeping stable in wind but can also have the adverse affect... I like the drop a leg tip... but when winds in changing direction a lot...I’m gonna try this one. Thx
I'm about to go out in 30 mph SUSTAINED winds today 4/30/21. Near washington dc Gusting up to 50-60mph. Thank you for this video. Probably going to cruise slower than normal
today I was riding with a really high wind, most of the time side wind and it was not constatn at all, even with no big objects I was tugged quite a lot, scary thing happend on one right turn when sudden gust of wind pushed me out to opposite lane, good thing there was no traffic at the time
I rode thru AZ with 20 constant and 40mph gusts all the way thru. I like the drag technique idea and will try it next time through. My body was so tired at the end of day. I hate the winds of AZ
Wow just found this video . Ugh definitely helpful that wind can really smack you from multiple directions. Nice to know what to do with the head winds .
Past month is being very windy in my country and I hate it. Crosswinds are the worst, especially wind gusts, they push me very hard either onto oncoming lane or off road. Once I even found myself in the middle of the dust storm, scariest riding experience ever, very strong gusts, that were literally creating dust walls.
Thanks for the tips, I just started riding barely a year ago and living on Long Island, I wanna ride by the beaches but to get to the nice ones, I have to cross a fairly long bridge that crosses the Great South Bay. Crosswinds are terrifying and until now where I just learned the "sail" method, I've just been leaning to counter the push.
thnks for the tips, keep putting out awesome vids, I ride a sportster 48, I have a windscreen and it works well for headwind and deflects wind blast to my chest.
Wind is not a fun element to deal with. Great video. I’m on a cruiser myself and head winds just batter you silly. So well worth knowing how to deal with it
I see this is an older video but still very relevant to us daily riders. I have a ninja 1000 ("baby Concourse") and and I ride it to work often, always with the luggage attached with my change of clothes. I live near Joshua Tree in southern California and do a 45 mile commute to the low desert. There's a stretch of about 5 miles where the temperature changes by 15 to sometimes 20 degrees (3000 foot elevation change) and the wind can easily reach 50 miles an hour. Even after a couple of years of dealing with it, I still get a bit scared. I have over 10 years of riding experience and a pretty good track record, but I'm sure there are better riders with less experience. I've found that I actually do control my bike better than I think. Your mindset snd confidence are important too, technique and experience not withstanding. If I'm feeling good and confident and ready for that stretch, it's an easier experience. If I allow myself to get anxious about it, not so much. I find it's better to focus and keep my pace. My mind wants me to back off on the throttle and go slower (like slower than the normal flow of traffic) but I don't. In high winds I feel like going to slow reduces my control. I feel like I really have to hold the bike hard if I get caught at a light. My own observations (bike movement, lane position) tell me I'm doing OK so I try to rely on that feedback rather than my head telling me I'm going to blow off the road like a kleenex at any moment. Thanks Dan for the excellent video and thanks to the others who have commented. Most guys are too proud to admit their fear of wind. I'm going to try the leg trick... pretty cool suggestion than I'm sure will also help. Be safe and aware out there everyone!
Today experience wind 30 miles sideways, drove at night no cars coming, driving 40 miles per hour, stopped 4 times on a 20min drive, pulled my bike to other lane almost run it over to dirt, bad experience. Felt like driving on slippery road.
As a cruiser rider who is also a fan of nautical history, I appreciated your analogy of the motorcycle and rider as a ship. … I’m DEFINITELY not imagining myself as a pirate now, nope. I’m 29, pretending to be a pirate is kid stuff.
Hey Dan, just subbed your channel yesterday. you rode by my neighborhood at 4:45 into the video, lol. I just started riding on the street a month a go, on a 2006 Kawi Ex500(I have some off road experience already) and I am taking the msf soon. The winds around here can be a son of a gun for me, being on a light bike and a smaller rider. Thanks for the tips! Maybe I'll see you out on the road some day!
Beans or even Prunes may give you 💨 wind but I found this video extremely very helpful..dealing with cross winds and head winds ..also common sense to have a rest stop ✋ if your exhausted 💤 Very helpful advice!! Excellent Dan !
No kidding. Had to deal with some crazy crosswinds plus random tunnel effects from those dumb sound walls then add in the semis and it feels like your bike is on ice.
My tip as a fairly new rider who was getting easily put-off by strong gusty winds is to try earplugs if you haven't already. Even if it is just on windy days, it makes a huge difference.
With the added wind noise, it can overwhelm your senses a bit and feels like you are just getting pounded sometimes. Especially new riders not used to tough conditions, 'overwhelming' really can be the best way to desribe it.
Earplugs cut out 90% of that distraction right off the bat, and leaves you to just feel what the bike is doing, how it is moving, and adjust accordingly.
For me I was very tense during gusty cross wind and got easily overwhelmed, but earplugs made it much much easier to deal with..
I don't really hear anyone recommending it when it comes to dealing with a windy rides, so thought I would mention it for anyone who struggles with the wind. It helps a great deal with fatigue as well..
Cheers!
Also sticking a knee out on the side the wind is coming from is a huge winner!!
RhysStar That makes complete sense! If anything, it’s the noise of the wind that can be more intimidating than it’s actual physical affects. I’ve learnt to just loosen up as a deathgrip will only make you act like a sail against the wind and also tire your arms
Thank you for that suggestion! I didn’t even think to use ear plugs!
im not a fan of this. it felt like it took too away too much of my environmental awareness
@@DontTakeCrack of using earplugs?
Totally agree on earplugs, just the soft foam ones you can still hear sirens and horns, just then relentless wind barrage goes away. As a new rider, I find it useful .
Weight is your friend in windy rides. So I found leaving my skinny wife at home and picking up a bigger girl, helps with wind drag and stability. Other than that, just some clean underwear and goggles will work.
🤣🤣🤣
Thanks man, my windy riding issue is solved now I've kidnapping charges only
That's right, fat chicks come in handy sometimes.
I hate and love this comment at the same time😂😂
😎
This video SAVED me today. Started riding a month and a half ago, got on a bridge and the wind was whipping my little ninja 400 all over the place! I was so scared. And I happened to watch this video right before riding. This really works!!! Thank you Dan Dan!!!
Wish I could say the same, I was in the EXACT same situation, new rider with ninja 400 with extreme winds, egregious amounts of pop in my pants, looked up this vid right after for next time
I wish I had watched this yesterday! For the leg trick with cross winds. I'm a new rider this summer (2008 1200 nightster with a windshield) had to ride in winds up to 30mph for 110 miles. I did have to stop about 3 times to rest as my wrist were getting sore. But finally just stoped about 45 min short of home and parked my bike at the town before mine and got a ride from family the rest of the way. I knew I was past the safe point of driving. I wouldn't have gotten half that distance if I hadn't had a windshield. I kinda felt embarrassed but at least my bike and myself are safe and sound.
🙌🏽😎
Nothing to be embarrassed about! Your safety is the most important thing 🤙
I agree, good call.
Had to do this the other day. I've had my bike for only a few weeks. Went and grabbed the bike the next day. Safety is most important. Know your limits.
I just passed MSF today and went out for my first ride. its a 40 minute ride most of it on a straight rode where people generally go 60-65mph in a 55 zone. so it was my first time going that fast and the cross wind was crazy. Im 185lbs on a cbr300r and the wind was tossing me around like i was its bitch. Nobody ever told me about wind. I was scared shitless that i was going to die on my first day out. at one point it almost tossed me into the other lane and i swear i felt my back tire wobble. i just stayed tucked and kept her at 62mph. it was terrifying lmao.
i feel you . i just got my suzuki burgman 200 today from the dealership and i thought that i could drove it from the dealership to my house. Like 60-45 is the speed limit, i tried going on 55mph. but Lord God even just 45mph my motorcycle was wobbling and the wind keeps tossing me to the left side. the Crosswinds , trucks and cars wind tunnel didn't help me at all. we decided to get a tow truck. it was a hella experience but that won't stop me from riding my scooter.
@@lesliegardner2677 hell yeah the burgman rules
Yeah you cannot squeeze the tank on scooters. Surprisingly my Vespa is fine in all weather, although have an Xmax (the under seat fits two helmets and two jackets) and got smashed by 80 km cross winds in a 60km zone riding home one night with a half face helmet. I now check weather reports for changes and ear phones. Music to relax helps too.
Bro i watched this and went and did it five mins later! Tips really helped on the open road! Cheers
I rode a naked during my bike lessons and only recently had a chance to ride a scoot (650 burgman) with a large windscreen. Man that was a *weird* experience taking that onto the highway. Now I totally understand how people get one of those things for daily commuting to/from work if it involves bad weather or lots of windy highway runs. It had a huge aftermarket screen on it and it was extremely comfortable because of it.
Was headed out of town during windy conditions, we didn’t realize it was very high conditions. It really was scary. I definitely got physically worn out and then it just felt unsafe. Semis pulling off freeway and cars with blinkers on added to the anxiety. We pulled over and stopped. Ended up canceling our trip for that day. It wasn’t fun.
I tried your leg trick and it works great! I didn't think that would help but it makes me feel so much more stable! You're the only person I've heard say that, I'm gonna share it with my friends who ride
Don't forget the urban wind tunnel effect in towns and cities, especially with high buildings. The gaps between them can really funnel cross-winds into a heavy blast, which can catch you out (e.g. when coming out of shelter into cross-junctions or passing side-streets).
I've only been riding for a month now and today I caught some terrible cross wind from left to right. Let me tell you, it scared the crap out of me, especially since it was the first time I had ever experienced something like this. The wind kept pulling me to the right. I really thought I was going to crash because it just felt like I was not in control. I pulled over for a bit to get myself together and kept on my way. Thankfully, I made it safely. Thank you for this knowledge! I will definitely try some of these tips if I ever get caught in that situation again.
Is your bike considered a light weight or heavy motorcycle? My light weight bike gets blown around too.
Went riding on a bridge with strong cross winds last week. Using your leg like sails really works.
years ago I used nothing but youtube content from you guys. yummie, dandan, ride like a pro Jerry. taught myself to ride on a beat up 80s en450 with 35k miles. the clutch cable would just come off the lever. the whole throttle assembly would pull off the bar tubes. everything about that bike was used and abused. it even fell over on the trailer ride home. perfect learner bike kept you on your toes. due to the condition it was not safe to ride it far. it could not hold highway speeds. I did learn about wind when a big gust almost pushed me into traffic in the next lane.
fast forward a few years and a newly ignited passion for being on two wheels appears. this year I got myself a 2014 ctx dct to get into the sport and meet one of my dollarstore super hero's with f1 technology from tech school nerd days. now I have something reliable to blockstomp I call it. so I go yesterday and find myself on the part if the scenic route that I'm not familiar with in my locality. I know I have to gently push the limits. it was so windy there on the highway part that I found myself getting pushed around. and to my surprise it was fairly tiring! you folks should get a tax cut for the valuable techniques that you share with young people and potential new riders. I was able to teach myself how to operate a motorcycle on the roadways safely with content from people like you. and yes I wear the goofy jacket with the pads even though it's hot and im.riding the groms fat cousin.
A windshield makes a world of difference too. Buy one that's easily removable if you really don't want it for some rides, cuz there's always gonna be days when it helps a ton 😉 There are a thousand universal styles to find something that looks good on your bike, regardless of what you ride 👍👍
Hey Dan, a trick I recently learned to help with the wind on the highway: put my feet on the passenger pegs. This shifts my upper body forward into the wind and requires less energy than fighting the wind in the full upright position.
Excellent video I love aerodynamics. You bring up some excellent points. Slicing through the wind is half the fun. I’m cruising from Vegas to LA right now we’ve got 30 mile an hour Crosswinds. I love riding safely behind trucks because it keeps cars away from me ( like swimming with dolphins if there are sharks)
I appreciate all your riding tips and what's very cool about your vid's is you genuinely CARE about helping new riders and the tips you suggest are helpful. An additional idea that is revolutionary probably, TIP #6 Slow down Riding in High Wind especially cross wind, the difference between 65 mph and 55 or even 50 is HUGE !! A lot better to arrive alive. I know this is not a popular subject for people who ride motorcycles, slowing down a bit lessens the fatigue too. So, drive faster with a bunch of breaks or slow down and not need a bunch of extra stops. Just something I was reminded of this time of year ( late fall) in the Mountain / valley open highways in Colorado where I live and ride.
I am 31, riding motorbike from the age of 17. I always thought I am an informed and knowledgeable rider. In Auckland motorways, it sometimes gets so windy, it is a struggle to keep control of your motorbike. I am not only thinking of changing my motorbike. This guy really makes sense and thanks to him.
going up the northwestern gets wild
I use to have a V-Star 650 a few years ago and with it being so light the wind would wear you out so for cruisers it helps alot the more they weigh the more stability you have in windy conditions
i ride in the wind on the scariest place possible the skyway bridge in florida, i lean in, and go over 90 mph easy . the more you do it the easier it gets
Here in California the scariest place to ride (for me) is the San Mateo bridge. It goes up hill the down hill and damn the crosswinds are extreme!
That leg trick saved me this pm. Insane cross winds gusting towards on coming traffic really was in trouble but your tip kept the bike stable and pretty predictable. Always windy here in the Algarve of Portugal so I will be riding leg out from now on!
thanks for the tip of adjusting your leg to create a counter drag to crosswinds. Had to cut back a planned weekend ride because of the wind buffeting me all over the road.
P Carter speaking of legs, what kind of jeans are those ?
I saw this video a couple of years ago (started riding in Sept 2020) and have been using the "sail" technique when dealing with crosswinds. Today, I was riding over a looong 2 lane bridge and encountered strong crosswinds on an otherwise calm day. Even at "full sail" and a slight lean, it was a struggle to stay in the right lane. Thankfully there was no traffic. I white knuckled it but made it. If I didn't know the "sail" technique I may not have been able to stay on the road and there was no shoulder.
New rider in uk, I live in a pretty rural area and commute on a 60mph open bendy road with hills and dips etc so when its windy it can be pretty unpredictable and unforgiving my bike is only entry level and pretty light too which maybe doesn't help but I'm gonna definitely try the leg positioning as everything else I tend to do already.
In the uk this is a huge problem for all riders I’ve seen people come off bikes because of the wind. This vid is a massive help
The leg thing you did I was riding tonight. Very windy and cold tonight. My leg did it naturally when I started thinking back. Also with the semi move to the far right and move towards the semi a bit as it passes.
I’ll try this fs brother … hey did the leg thing help ?
@@iliketurtles4761 honestly it was a huge help
Im a new rider n this morning to work I almost blew onto my right lane .. good thing I was on the far left or else I woulda ended up in a predicament or panicked … I kept cool n fought the wind .. it was kinda scary .. thank u DanDan for these tips .. I searched n I was so glad it was you teaching me 💯🙌🏽
Thanks for the tips Dan! Went out riding today, and still rather new to motorcycles, had to cross over a bridge here in The Bay that is known for high cross winds, even feel it in my car, so I was little nervous, kinda putting it off a few times when I was out riding. Idk what it was today, but I just felt like just going out farther than I usually do. I had remembered what you said in this video and decided to tackle it. I reduced my speed kicked my knee out and added a slight pressure fighting the wind. It was still a little rough but I made it through, also got to ride farther than I have before. Thanks to your advice I was able to explore my area in new ways, can’t wait for my next ride.
The leg thing, I was actually doing it by intuition these last days (It has been quite windy in Portuguese highways). Next "challenge".... the rain!
All great info... 1 thing I'd add is to drive at a safe speed in high winds no shame pulling over to let other pass you.
Definitely stop! I had a bad wind here in Nevada and it was a cross wind. I was moving all over my lane. I just got off the freeway and took the streets cause it made me feel very uncomfortable.
It used to take me 45 mins to an hour to get to work because of the wind. I made it to work in 30 mins with horrible cross winds! Thank you so much
It get really windy in Northern Nevada. So many days that would otherwise be great to ride are ruined by high winds.
We just drove across hiway 80 and wow, you're not kidding about wind. It's intense.
I had bad cross wind last week. Had to stop and ended up getting pushed into gravel 🙄. I didn't crash but i had to put my bike down.
Thank you for this
THANKS! man the leg thing helped a bit.
I installed an up down windshield made by Puig which I pull up extended for a long highway cruise worked great for head wind. A light weight bike gets blown around more like surfing lol. I stop every hour for sure.
While riding my motorcycle from Colorado back to Texas, I encountered 60 MPH wind gusts in Arizona and a thunderstorm in Texas. I noticed that lowering the windshield made my bike more aerodynamic and easier to handle in windy conditions. Another great tip is to drive next to a trailer in a thunderstorm. This will protect you almost 100% from the wind and even sideways rain. good lock with the Harleys (they can't lower the windshield my Goldwing can LOL!
wish I saw this before I crashed on the 12th in Prescott
With the dust and the wildfire smoke, it would be nice if there were a full face helmet with a respirator seal and a 3M filter bayonet. I love my 3M facepieces, and the 2297 filters (lifesaver in wildfire season, they smoke to basically fresh air and don't noticeably restrict breathing). Side benefit: no fogging issues on the visor, because the intake check valves are inside the nose and mouth portion, even if the filters vent into the visor as well.
Thanks for the tips. My first freeway ride was today, super windy I stayed on for one mile and got off on the next exit. Its a real workout.
for the first time i can say i actually learned something from a youtibe video about riding that i'll actually put into practice, thats some great advice. 3:50
I spend a lot of time riding in the wind in high country western state areas. These tips are good. Wind is not fun on adventure or dual sport bikes or anything tall. Any bike can be made worse by adding a top box on something on top of the top box. Recently wanted to have a better option than my lighter weight and tall old BMW F650. Tried the 1250 GS on a windy day - moderately better. Ultimately bought an R1250RT, and spent last summer all over highways, interstates and mountain roads with trucks and RVs all around. Soooo much better. It's not just about the weight, it's where the weight is and how it works the aerodynamics.
I agree with riding around Tucson and the high winds. I just came back from a ride down to the Sierra Vista area and the wind was rough and exhausting. I would love to do a meet up!
Fun fact as a truck driver not only do I create winds but I also feel the effects of wind as well. The semi going by a car the car feels a little bit the semi going by another semi we feel it a lot more because of our lack of Arrow Dynamics. I know the spelling is wrong
Also being right behind a semi is the worst space because you will get Crosswinds from left and right and that's something called dirty air
I wasn’t searching but this came up and it’s just what I had been experiencing lately thanks for the pointers
I started wearing those same riding jeans a couple of months ago. Thank you for the info!
I wish I had seen this years ago! I remember a trip through South Dakota, and the crosswind was insane. Was pushing me all over the place since my bike is so light. But the knee out trick would have been super helpful!!
Thanks for the suggestions. I ride a sport bike and I'll try these tips next time I encounter wind change. Once again, thanks sir.
I'm a new rider and I got scared riding on the highway and overtaking trucks with strong crosswinds. I kept getting pushed to the left! I'll try the leg thing next time. Thanks
When I have to pass a big lorry on the motorways, I just open up and pass it as quick as I can
@@Bumbaclot213 That's what I do now, I don't look at the speed and just overtake it as fast as possible
Tailwinds are *great.* If it's a 30mph wind, you're going 80 down the road, effective airspeed is only 50. Far more comfortable. If you're just out for a cruise though it's bad news, on the way back you're hitting 110mph effective airspeed and that gets tiring. Especially after you've been feeling 50
Great points. I live in El Paso, TX and I'm sure the wind is probably just as severe as where you are. The other day I was passing a rig coming down a mountain in a dust storm. As I was going around a corner a sudden gust hit me from the right at the same time as the buffeting from the front of the truck was pushing me the same way. It can be spooky turning that hard towards the front of a truck when the wind suddenly goes away.
Baby rider here and getting used to summer winds, and I can thank you guys enough for sharing. For a baby like me, it's been exhausting.
So what about unpredictable winds? If it turns all the time so you don't know when or from where the next gust will come, that's when I'm most stressed out on the bike.
Same been riding 4 years , but not the last 13 yrs and jus got a bike again 😂😂
You can also keep your eyes out for objects like flags, trees, grass to get an idea what kind of wind you are dealing with and how strong it is when you ride. Heavy cross winds make riding a chore.
A little while back my car broke down and my only form of transportation was a 200 cc scooter, weighing in at less than 200 pounds. I was commuting home from the base of some mountains several times a week with winds that easily exceeded 30 miles an hour. My bike could just keep up with traffic in ideal conditions.
First time I experienced that I pulled over and gave myself some time to think about the best option and prepare myself. Your first time in wind, especially on a small bike is SCARY! If you're concerned, find a safe place to stop, chill out and visualize your commute. using your leg like a sail works wonders. If you have a backpack or anything that will cause drag, see if you can mount it on your passenger seat or in a top case. Add any extra layers you have on top of your jacket, as wind chill can be pretty harsh. I managed to get home safe, and over time it just became a part of my day.
Always be mindful of your environment at all times, and never get too confident. Right when you think you've learned it all, something can always throw you for a loop.
This is great. Live in Wellington, New Zealand where wind is constant.
Small world - I’m a new motorcycle rider and have been watching your videos and actually live in Tucson myself.
You are an awsome safe biker! Thanks for all the tips!! Salut du Québec ✌
This leg trick is super interesting, i'm going to try it!
Thanks for the tips! Any advice on keeping your legs and butt from going numb while riding? Thanks for sharing!👍
Alberto Sbrolla yes pull over somewhere safe shut off the bike and walk around till you get the feeling back
Roadside stretching from time to time usually does the job, but changing riding positions helps a lot.
I am finding a stop after about 1 hour is needed - is that what others find best? Do gel/air type seats help at all?
Hi Dan, thanks for all the awesome videos they really help. I've been into it for about a year now and wind really still freaks me out. It's those sudden bursts that a hard to cope with. I might try a different helmet my Kabuto rt33 is bad for letting alot of wind in. Cheers from QLD Australia.
You're the man bro!!!!!! Thank you! Was caught by surprise in the southern California hills, fought against some strong crosswinds! Ill apply your advice next time!!!!
It’s not just the profile of you and the motorcycle, but the wind flow underneath the bike catches those little cooling fins on the motor and helps to push the bike sideways!
Crosswind when going on overpass or going through under pass on the highway ,my tip is to watch semi truck trailer when going through under pass & over pass or Canyon pass their make their trailer shift little Side to side from quick crosswind
I'm watching this now cause the wind is blowing about 60kmph outside and I have to drive home for 26km and over a mountian pass on my 250cc in a few hours. And it will be raining soon.. wish me luck
Did you make it? Are you ok?
guys get a tick scarf 🧣 on your neck it blocks a lot of the wind going to the helmet improves a lot wind noise.
I had this happen to me today cars were passing me 😁😂😂 i have a scoot 125cc was nervous from all the wind of course my scooter is alot lighter and no windshield guess i shouldd get one what about wind tips for a scooter
Wish I'd found this vid before riding my 200lb 125cc bike along some very open and windy roads as my first longish ride. Can't wait to get my heavier cb750 on the road that'll definitely help along with these tips aswell
I’ve been in some gnarly cross winds that blow me across a full lane. It can be very stressful . I think relaxing as much as possible, while holding on tight with good body position. A tip I picked up from a guy I talked to while pulled off in heavy wind was to slow down a bit with higher rpms. I felt like speed was beneficial in keeping stable in wind but can also have the adverse affect... I like the drop a leg tip... but when winds in changing direction a lot...I’m gonna try this one. Thx
I'm about to go out in 30 mph SUSTAINED winds today 4/30/21. Near washington dc
Gusting up to 50-60mph. Thank you for this video. Probably going to cruise slower than normal
I had to get a bigger bike and a windshield to deal with the Jersey winds when I ventured over from PA.
Airplanes do the same thing with the trim tab on the rudder.
👏🏽Bro your advice for crosswinds is amazing!👏🏽
today I was riding with a really high wind, most of the time side wind and it was not constatn at all, even with no big objects I was tugged quite a lot, scary thing happend on one right turn when sudden gust of wind pushed me out to opposite lane, good thing there was no traffic at the time
I rode thru AZ with 20 constant and 40mph gusts all the way thru. I like the drag technique idea and will try it next time through. My body was so tired at the end of day. I hate the winds of AZ
Mzbrayzn I’m doing this right now.
I need to try the leg out on crosswinds earlier I felt like I was gonna come off three time doing only 45-50mph. 😅
Wow just found this video . Ugh definitely helpful that wind can really smack you from multiple directions. Nice to know what to do with the head winds .
Past month is being very windy in my country and I hate it. Crosswinds are the worst, especially wind gusts, they push me very hard either onto oncoming lane or off road.
Once I even found myself in the middle of the dust storm, scariest riding experience ever, very strong gusts, that were literally creating dust walls.
I recently rode home in a thunderstorm. Heavy rain, cold, and 40mph gusts it was real fun thankfully there was almost no cars.
Man thank u for the advice for cross wind.
Hey Dan, my first long ride through mess was during all that craziness the other day, very scary for a first long ride, the tips help alot thank you
Ear plugs are great, too. Know you mentioned water, man you dry out faster in those winds.
Thanks for the tips, I just started riding barely a year ago and living on Long Island, I wanna ride by the beaches but to get to the nice ones, I have to cross a fairly long bridge that crosses the Great South Bay. Crosswinds are terrifying and until now where I just learned the "sail" method, I've just been leaning to counter the push.
Keep your body relaxed and loose. Light grip on the handle bar. Do not death grip.
Counter steer in the direction of the wind.
Awesome review thanks for sharing from Australia
I get that wind direction when I big truck passes my vehicle. Wind whips good.
I ride along the coast here in California all the time. Pretty strong winds, can mess you up if you're not prepared.
thnks for the tips, keep putting out awesome vids, I ride a sportster 48, I have a windscreen and it works well for headwind and deflects wind blast to my chest.
Great thanks, i hate riding in the wind.
Wind is not a fun element to deal with. Great video. I’m on a cruiser myself and head winds just batter you silly. So well worth knowing how to deal with it
I see this is an older video but still very relevant to us daily riders. I have a ninja 1000 ("baby Concourse") and and I ride it to work often, always with the luggage attached with my change of clothes. I live near Joshua Tree in southern California and do a 45 mile commute to the low desert. There's a stretch of about 5 miles where the temperature changes by 15 to sometimes 20 degrees (3000 foot elevation change) and the wind can easily reach 50 miles an hour. Even after a couple of years of dealing with it, I still get a bit scared. I have over 10 years of riding experience and a pretty good track record, but I'm sure there are better riders with less experience. I've found that I actually do control my bike better than I think. Your mindset snd confidence are important too, technique and experience not withstanding. If I'm feeling good and confident and ready for that stretch, it's an easier experience. If I allow myself to get anxious about it, not so much. I find it's better to focus and keep my pace. My mind wants me to back off on the throttle and go slower (like slower than the normal flow of traffic) but I don't. In high winds I feel like going to slow reduces my control. I feel like I really have to hold the bike hard if I get caught at a light. My own observations (bike movement, lane position) tell me I'm doing OK so I try to rely on that feedback rather than my head telling me I'm going to blow off the road like a kleenex at any moment. Thanks Dan for the excellent video and thanks to the others who have commented. Most guys are too proud to admit their fear of wind. I'm going to try the leg trick... pretty cool suggestion than I'm sure will also help. Be safe and aware out there everyone!
Today experience wind 30 miles sideways, drove at night no cars coming, driving 40 miles per hour, stopped 4 times on a 20min drive, pulled my bike to other lane almost run it over to dirt, bad experience. Felt like driving on slippery road.
As a cruiser rider who is also a fan of nautical history, I appreciated your analogy of the motorcycle and rider as a ship.
…
I’m DEFINITELY not imagining myself as a pirate now, nope. I’m 29, pretending to be a pirate is kid stuff.
3:12 That fly got owned. #Headshot #RIP
Thanks for that lmfao. Oh the joys of riding!
Hey Dan, just subbed your channel yesterday. you rode by my neighborhood at 4:45 into the video, lol. I just started riding on the street a month a go, on a 2006 Kawi Ex500(I have some off road experience already) and I am taking the msf soon. The winds around here can be a son of a gun for me, being on a light bike and a smaller rider. Thanks for the tips! Maybe I'll see you out on the road some day!
Thanks for the videos man! Im looking into getting one soon and your videos help alot !
Great.. love the sail idea.. was crazy windy on UK motorway today...
Nice video. Love the sound of your bike
Beans or even Prunes may give you 💨 wind but I found this video extremely very helpful..dealing with cross winds and head winds ..also common sense to have a rest stop ✋ if your exhausted 💤
Very helpful advice!!
Excellent Dan !
Lol
No kidding. Had to deal with some crazy crosswinds plus random tunnel effects from those dumb sound walls then add in the semis and it feels like your bike is on ice.