Now, let's talk about wind proofing. The biggest issue that you will have when riding a motorcycle in the winter is keeping the wind out. Wind, specifically wind chill, is your worst enemy on a motorcycle in cold weather. Doing everything you can to stop this enemy is going to go a long way to helping you ride your motorcycle comfortably in the cold.

Wind-proofing also takes the most trial and error to perfect. It can take quite a while before you finally plug all of those air leaks!

The main thing to do for wind-proofing is to make sure your outer layer is some type of wind-proof material. Leather is by far the most popular choice for this. Ideally, you should look for something that is both wind-proof and water-proof. There are many man-made materials that meet that criteria.

(I personally prefer leather and if I do run into weather, I just throw my rainsuit on for protection and a little added warmth!)

Here are a few additional thoughts on wind-proofing:

• Add a windshield to your motorcycle to block the wind.
• While not stylish, duck tape can do wonders to seal any leaks you might have.
• Wear a full face motorcycle helmet with some type of covering for your neck and head - I prefer a balaclava. Most of your heat is lost through your head so do your best to keep it warm!
• Put newspaper on your chest between your outer layer and the layer underneath it - this does wonders for blocking the wind (a tip I learned while racing bikes)

I've found that I can insulate my body and legs adequately, but when the temperature really drops, I have the most problems with my hands and feet. Many people have a similar problem. The reason is that as you get cold your body focuses circulation on your internal organs to keep them warm, while your feet and hands get the shaft.

The only way that I've found to keep my hands and feet comfortable in really cold weather is to 1) add additional heat sources, and 2) invest in quality boots and gloves

For additional heat sources I use those air-activated hand and feet warmers that you can find in the hunting section of any Wal-Mart. Crack open a couple of these, stuff them into your boots and gloves, and your hands and feet will be toasty for 5+ hours. Not sure what I'm talking about? Check them out here: http://www.warmhandsnow.com/store/warmers.shtml

For boots, I'm a strong believer that you don't have to go and buy a pair of $250+ Harley motorcycle boots to get the performance you need in cold weather. The best pair of boots that I've ever had (and still wear) cost me $40 from a Wal-Mart somewhere in Missouri (Herman Survivors: Commander model). They are comfortable, waterproof, and windproof and have seen me through a lot of crappy weather. I was so happy with them I took a picture of them in action, not the best pic but you get the idea.

The key things you want to look for in boots are:

• Fit (you don't want them to be tight because this will reduce circulation and make your feet colder)
• Water-Proof. Don't even consider them if they aren't.
• Above the ankle. This really helps with wind proofing.
• Comfortable to walk around in. I've had motorcycle boots that made me walk like a robot from Starwars. This is not what you want!
• Insulation is a nice to have, but not a must; you can get most of your insulation from putting extra socks on.