Riding in windy conditions

[5th_bike]

Yesterday it was sunny and 50°F, but it was also quite windy. The weather warning spoke of sustained 25-35 mph winds with gusts up to 60 mph. A rare (for Maryland) opportunity to try the bike in windy conditions.

So, I took it for a 40 mile ride on the local two-lane back roads, and noted the following differences from 'regular' riding:
1 - I tended to keep more distance from opposing cars, taking the right tire track more often.
2 - With strong side winds, lean into the wind a bit. This is easily accomplished by counter-steering slightly.
3 - There is more debris (fallen branches and trees) on the road, that you have to look out for.
4 - There are more emergency response vehicles on the road, because of the fallen trees, brush fires, etc.
5 - There are less other motorcycles on the road, so you don't have to wave so often. I only saw one.

The bottom line is: Under windy conditions, our light and agile GZ250s are like an iron on the road. I was never "blown all over the place" or blown into the other lane, even though I'm sure I was hit by several 40-50 mph side gusts. You do have to plan for a foot or two adjacent to your planned line of travel, to counteract the side gusts, that's all.

:ride on: