You don’t have to be a fair-weather rider! Lots of powersports enthusiasts want to ride all winter long, and these machines are 100% capable of working and playing all four seasons. Here are some maintenance and prep tips for keeping your machine raring to go in cold weather, from the team at Northern Power Sports. You’ll find us in Fairbanks, Alaska, and we also serve North Pole and College.

Review your owner’s manual: It has specific information that you need to know and comply with. Most importantly, cold temperatures and snow will impact some of your maintenance practices.

• Fluids: Cold temperatures can thicken fluids, so switch to winter formulations for oil and other critical fluids. 
• Fuel: The right fuel helps save your vehicle from working too hard, so make sure you’re using winter fuel, not summer fuel, and beware of any condensation or other water contamination, especially in your fuel resupply cans. 
• Battery: Batteries don’t fare well in cold weather, so make sure you charge yours as needed. 
• Tires/Tracks: You might need snow tires or chains, or even tracks. 
• Covers: Windshields and cab enclosures can make a big difference in staying warm enough to actually enjoy your time out there in the snowscape! 
• GPS/navigation: Getting lost in winter is potentially life-threatening, so take full advantage of technology to stay oriented and locatable. 
• Emergency kit: Bring extra food, water, warm layers, and a first aid kit. 
• Winch and shovel: Be prepared to dig yourself out of trouble! Winter riders will benefit from a winch, to help themselves or others.