Icy Roads - Horizons Unlimited

**ordy** · #1 26 Dec 2005

Hello there,
I'm thinking of going on a working holiday in the U.K. & Europe for about a year or so.
May-be on a B.M.W. 650.
I'm just wondering how you get around in the winter time when the roads ice up etc.?

Thaks for your time,
Paul.

**beddhist** · #2 26 Dec 2005

Preferably not at all, but if I must either on foot or on at least 4 wheels. In most parts of Western Europe and the UK you don't often get much snow or ice, so driving is not really a problem. But, it's not much fun when it's dark, cold and wet, either. Haven't used my bike for several weeks now (in Germany).

Two other things: pickled roads wreck bikes quickly:

Winter equipment is now de-facto compulsory in Germany. If you drive in adverse conditions without you can get fined.

**Matt Cartney** · #3 27 Dec 2005

The UK can be bad for black ice. Moisture on roads freezes to clear and is utterly unrideable. I've had two crashes on black ice. Both slow as I suspected it once and was pootling round a corner the other time. Try to avoid riding in cold weather if at all possible these days!
Matt

**ordy** · #4 27 Dec 2005

Thanks for your reply
So to work during Winter it might be best to buy a cheap car or something like that?

For accommodation, I suppose Backpacker Hostels & places like that in Winter time? Do people still camp out in Winter time in the U.K. or Europe.?

Ordy.

**Bill Holland** · #5 27 Dec 2005

There are some campsites which are open 12 months in the UK, and I expect Europe will be the same. If you have the right gear, cold shouldn't be a problem. Not much fun in a tent when it's dark at 3.45 pm - depends who is with you......

**Matt Roach** · #6 10 Jan 2006

Just dont make the same mistake I did last week when riding through Europe......

Trying to cross the Alps with a MX style helmet, motocross gloves and light rallye jacket (all the remains of an Africa trip)is not really a good idea......rather bloody cold. Invest in some good waterproof gear and hand warmers.

Having said that, as long as you are patient and wait for the heavy lorries and snow ploughs to clear the main roads, travel on a motorbike is still possible, but not very pleasant.