There IS a way around it!
Sneaky heat exaustion is an important consideration while riding during the hot summer months. I used to hear other riders talk about how heat exhaustion happened to them, but I thought since I was prepared, I was immune. During rides I always took the proper percautions: extra breaks, drinking extra water and lingering over lunch during the hottest part of the day. It happened to me anyway.
Several years ago I went on a long Rally Poker Run in the Blue Ridge Mountains and although the temperature was over 95 degrees, the heat didn't really seem to bother me. But it hit me like a ton of bricks after I parked my bike at the Run's destination. Suddenly I was staggering like a drunkard, desperately trying to keep my balance as I moved away from the hot bikes. I made it to the sidewalk, but my head was spinning so fast that I had to cling to the parking sign to stay upright. I was sweating profusely under the helmet and jacket I didn't have the strength to remove. It took several minutes for the sensation to pass.
That was my first, and hopefully, last experience with heat exaustion. It's frightening to think how I might have been overcome while riding the bike...
Shortly after that incident a rider told me how to keep cool using an old trick - wetting down the lining of your leather jacket! The air rushing through the unzipped sleeves and half-zipped front is quickly cooled by the water. It's like having your own air-conditioner on! In fact, it works so great you have to be careful - it feels like you're in a freezer once the bike is in motion and can be a sudden shock in high temperatures. The first time, just wet down the collar and cuff areas, then take a short ride before you try soaking the entire jacket lining.
Some riders switch from leather to denim jackets for the summer. Wetting the denim may bring some relief, but I've found that it dries out faster than leather (usually in thirty minutes) requiring either more frequent stops or bearing the heat longer. Leather actually provides more comfort since it effectively blocks the wind from evaporating the water too quickly.
Sometimes I've only had the choice of dark colored jeans when riding, and the sun would quickly and unbearably heat up my legs. I found that dousing the top of my thighs gave lasting relief instantly. Stops in the most miserable heat became truly refreshing.
Enjoying the ride is what it's all about and there's a solution to summertime heat in a watering can or sink at any gas station - proving my favorite saying, "there is a way around it!"
Just Give It Time...
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