Yep that can be a real pain @Tigcraft, textiles that go in the washing machine do help mitigate that.
Just bought a Gerbing myself last month and used it for the first time last weekend, wow what a piece of good tackle! It’s just my thumb ends now that are still cold even though I’ve got heated grips!!
20 miles a day ever weekday, 0-many on weekends depending on how knackered I am. Stay off for the first day of proper snow so the idiots can slide into ditches without me, second day is usually fine (if feet down, slow speed on known icy bits definition of fine).
I don't mind riding in winter, modern motorcycle clothing is much better than it was and extras like heated grips and/or heated under garments take the pain out of cold weather riding. What stops me from riding more at this time of year is the fact I can go out for a 30 minute ride and then spend the best part of double that time cleaning the crap off the bike when I get back.
I think with all the developments in modern clothing for bad weather it’s much easier to ride pretty much all year However as I discovered this morning it’s often a good idea to put your waterproof warm trousers on instead of carrying them in your rucksack although I did have something dry to change into once I got on the train
Yer all feckin nuts! Don't wash it - just cover it (certain bits excepted) in ACF50, F365, or similar. I did have a ZRX400, then a 600 Bandit as winter bikes, but after smashing my right leg 2 years ago, I avoid the icier days and the dodgier weather.
I'd still wash and dry it first, then cover anything not expected to generate friction in grease like a winter Channel swimmer.
