Winter Riding: What to Know, Where to Go

by Fastback Moto | Oct 20, 2025 | General Content, Highlights, Off-Road Content, Street Content

Winter Riding: Your Guide to Keeping the Adventure Alive with Fastback Moto

When the temperatures drop, the itch to ride doesn’t just vanish. For some of you, winter means parking the bike and dreaming of spring. But for the rest of us? It’s a chance to embrace the crisp air, conquer new terrain, and keep the adrenaline pumping. Whether you’re a die-hard road warrior, a snow bike thrill-seeker, or just planning for next season, our full-service motorcycle shop in Utah has you covered.

Here’s our ultimate guide to making winter your favorite riding season, packed with tips, destinations, and ways we can help you keep rolling.

A man on a black snowmobile soars through the air against a cloudy blue sky, captured mid-jump with snow-covered mountains and pine trees in the background. He wears a black helmet and winter gear, leaning forward as the snowmobile tilts slightly upward.

Why Winter Riding Rocks

Winter isn’t just about bundling up—it’s about discovering new adventures and getting ahead on bike prep. At Fastback Moto, we see riders transform the cold months into prime time for epic rides, maintenance, and upgrades.

From the stunning trails of southern Utah to the thrill of snow biking, there’s no reason to let your bike hibernate. Let’s dive into where to ride, how to prep, and why stopping by our shop is the best move you’ll make this season.

Where to Ride: Southern Utah’s Winter Wonderland

When snow and ice blanket northern Utah’s roads, southern Utah becomes a rider’s paradise. With mild temperatures and jaw-dropping scenery, it’s like spring riding all winter long. Whether you’re into street cruises or off-road adventures, here are some must-ride spots:

Zion Canyon Loop: This street ride offers cool temps, breathtaking red rock views, and fewer crowds in winter. Perfect for soaking in the scenery without the summer rush.
Scenic Byway 12 (Boulder to Escalante): A street rider’s dream with sweeping curves and vibrant landscapes. It’s a ride that feels like a journey through a postcard.
Beaver Dam/Mesquite: For off-road enthusiasts, this area delivers endless trails and open desert to explore. It’s a playground for dirt bikes and adventure riders.

Pro Tip: Elevation matters! Above 6,000 feet, temperatures can drop fast, so pack layers and check the forecast. Need help planning your route? Check out Butler Maps for expertly crafted motorcycle maps or create your own custom route to make every ride unforgettable.

Snow Bikes: Turn Your Dirt Bike into a Winter Beast

If you haven’t tried a snow bike yet, you’re in for a treat. By swapping your dirt bike’s wheels for a front ski and rear track, Utah’s backcountry becomes your playground, from snowy forests to open slopes. At Fastback Moto, we can help you with:

Snow Bike Conversions: We’ll guide you through choosing the right kit and handle the installation for peak performance.
Preseason Inspections: Ensure your bike is ready for the snow with a thorough check-up.
Storage Prep: We’ll prep your standard dirt bike setup for storage, so it’s ready when the snow melts.

Curious about snow biking? Swing by our shop, and we’ll walk you through the process, from kit options to tuning tips for flawless performance in freezing temps. It’s the ultimate way to keep riding while others are stuck shoveling snow.

Winter Utility: Make Chores Fun with ATV/UTV Plows

Winter riding isn’t always about adventure—sometimes it’s about getting stuff done. If you own an ATV or UTV, a snow plow attachment can turn clearing driveways or trails into a blast. At Fastback Moto, we’ve got everything you need to make your machine winter-ready:

Plow Kit Installation: We’ll mount and adjust your plow for maximum efficiency.
Winch & Electrical Checks: Ensure your systems are ready for heavy-duty work.
Winterization: We’ll prep your ATV or UTV for reliable cold starts, so you’re never stuck.

Looking to upgrade your setup? Now’s the perfect time to add accessories or fine-tune your machine before the next big storm hits. Stop by, and let’s get your rig ready to tackle winter chores with ease.

For the Die-Hards: Road Riding Through Winter

For those of you who refuse to let snow or cold stop you, we salute your grit! Winter road riding—whether commuting or cruising for fun—takes serious prep. Here are some battle-tested tips from the Fastback Moto crew:

Gear Up Smart: Invest in heated gear (trust us, it’s a game-changer). Quality windproof liners and waterproof layers are worth their weight in gold.
Tire TLC: Cold temps lower tire pressure, so check it before every ride. Consider winter compound tires for better grip if you’re a regular winter rider.
Stay Visible: With low sun angles and early sunsets, visibility is critical. Add reflective gear and LED lighting to stand out.
Mind the Road: Salt and sand help cars but can mess with your traction. Take corners slow and wash your bike regularly to prevent corrosion.

Not sure if your bike’s ready for winter’s challenges? Bring it to Fastback Moto for a full winter inspection. We’ll check fluids, battery, tires, and electrical systems to keep you safe and rolling all season long.

Fair-Weather Riders: Winter Storage Done Right

If winter riding isn’t your thing, no worries—Fastback Moto has your back. Our climate-controlled storage keeps your bike safe from snow, rain, and corrosion. We go the extra mile by starting your bike every couple of weeks to keep the battery charged and fluids circulating. Why? Because regular startups are the secret to a healthy motorcycle. With our storage service, your bike will be primed and ready when spring arrives, giving you peace of mind and a head start on the season.

Why Winter Is the Best Time to Visit Fastback Moto

Winter is the off-season for many riders, which makes it the perfect time to tackle those big projects or upgrades. At Fastback Moto, our full-service shop is ready to help you get ahead:

Beat the Spring Rush: Schedule major services, rebuilds, or carb work now to avoid the wait.
Upgrade Your Ride: From tire swaps to performance tuning or custom installs, we’ll get your bike dialed in.
Join the Community: Follow us on social media for updates on winter classes, events, and meetups. Let us know what kind of workshops you’d love to see!

Our shop is more than a service center—it’s a hub for riders who live for the open road (or trail). Stop by, grab a coffee, and let’s chat about your winter plans. We’re as passionate about your bike as you are.

Keep the Adventure Rolling with Fastback Moto

Winter doesn’t have to mean downtime for riders. Whether you’re carving through southern Utah’s deserts, shredding snow-covered trails, or prepping for spring, Fastback Moto is here to keep your bike in top shape. From snow bike conversions to winter storage and everything in between, our team is all about fueling your passion for riding.

Ready to make this winter your best riding season yet? Visit Fastback Moto, drop by the shop, or give us a call. Let’s talk about your winter setup and plan the adventures ahead. Keep the throttle open, and we’ll see you on the road—or in the snow!

Skill Level: Tips for Beginner Motorcycle Riders

by super | Jun 9, 2025 | Highlights, Skill Level, Street Content

Skill Level: Tips for Beginner Motorcycle Riders

“Starting your journey as a motorcycle rider is thrilling, and it comes with responsibilities…”

Starting your journey as a motorcycle rider is thrilling, and it comes with responsibilities to keep yourself safe and confident on the road. One of the most critical steps is wearing proper safety gear every time you ride. Motorcycles offer little protection compared to cars, and a DOT-approved full-face helmet can reduce the risk of fatal head injuries. Pair it with a motorcycle jacket featuring armor, gloves, riding pants, and sturdy boots to shield against abrasions and impacts. Opt for bright or reflective gear to stand out, especially in Utah’s unpredictable weather. For budget-friendly options, check out Fastback Moto in Woods Cross, where you can get fitted for beginner-friendly gear.

Learning to ride safely is just as important as gearing up, and a motorcycle safety course can make all the difference. In Utah, a learner’s permit or course completion is required for licensing, so enrolling in a Basic Rider Course is a smart move. These courses teach essential skills like braking, turning, and hazard avoidance while helping you master low-speed maneuvers like clutch and throttle control. Ask your local motorcycle shop about courses available to you!

“A well-maintained bike is more reliable…”

Keeping your motorcycle in top shape is another key to safe riding. A well-maintained bike is more reliable and less likely to cause accidents due to issues like worn tires or low oil. Before every ride, check your tire tread depth and pressure to ensure good grip on Utah’s diverse roads. Schedule oil changes and seasonal inspections and learn basic checks like chain tension or brake pad wear. Fastback Moto offers affordable services like oil changes and tire checks in to keep your bike road-ready.

Riding defensively is crucial since motorcyclists are harder for drivers to spot. Always assume drivers don’t see you, keep a safe 3–4-second following distance, and use headlights and hand signals to boost visibility, even in daylight. Watch for Utah-specific hazards like gravel or wet pavement, and avoid lingering in blind spots. Practicing defensive riding in low-traffic areas can build your confidence.

Finally, choosing the right motorcycle sets you up for success. A beginner-friendly bike with a low seat height and manageable power, like a 250–500cc model such as the Orion RXB 250 or Kawasaki Ninja 400, helps you build skills without feeling overwhelmed. Test-ride bikes at a dealership to find one that fits comfortably. Avoid heavy or high-performance bikes until you’re more experienced. Fastback Moto has community events like bike nights where you can learn from seasoned riders. By following these tips, you’ll hit the road safely and confidently—reach out to Fastback Moto for gear, services, or advice to kickstart your ride!

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Motorcycle Myths That Need To Die (Before You Do)

by Fastback Moto | Jun 3, 2025 | Fastback Facts, General Content, Highlights

Motorcycle Myths That Need to Die (Before You Do)

Let’s clear the air and bust some long-standing myths throughout the motorcycle community. Whether they’re about safety, gear, performance, or maintenance, buying into a myth can cost your hard earned money and a slightly shameful visit to a local motorcycle shop. At Fastback Moto, we believe in cutting through the BS and helping you stay safe on the road with smart, safe, and fact-based riding practices.

Whether you’re on the road, on the trail, or in the garage, here’s what’s real and what’s BS.

🛡️ SAFETY & GEAR

❌ MYTH

❌ “Full-face helmets block your vision.”

Not true. DOT- and ECE-certified full-face helmets must meet strict field-of-vision standards. typically provide a 210° field of view—more than your own peripheral vision can process. If your helmet feels limiting, it’s likely a fit issue, not a design flaw.

❌ “Helmets increase the risk of spinal injury.”

This myth came from a debunked study in the 1980s. Modern helmets distribute force to reduce trauma to the brain and neck.

❌ “Only wusses wear protective gear.”

This one’s as tired as an unbalanced chain. Protective gear isn’t about fear—it’s about respect: for yourself, your passengers, and the road.

❌ “Leather offers the best protection.”

Leather’s tough—but many modern textile suits outperform it in abrasion resistance, weatherproofing, and armor placement.

❌ “You don’t need gear for short rides.”

Most accidents happen close to home, not on long hauls.

❌“Lane splitting is dangerous.”

In Utah, lane filtering is legal in certain situations. It’s not the same as California-style splitting, and when done correctly, it’s been shown to reduce rear-end collisions.

✅ FACT

✅ We recommend properly fitted full-face helmets for the best protection, visibility, and comfort.

Bonus: it protects your face from wind, bugs, rain, and road debris.

✅ We recommend: Look into gear like Leatt’s helmet + neck brace system—designed to reduce rotational forces and protect your cervical spine. Better tech, smarter safety.

Better Tech, Smarter Safety

✅ We recommend: Find gear that’s CE-rated, fits right, and is comfortable enough that you’ll actually wear it. The best gear is the gear you’ll put on every ride, even for a quick trip.

✅ We recommend: Look at textiles with CE Level 2 armor, high-denier fabrics, and impact zones. The best gear for you is what fits, protects, and breathes well enough to use consistently.

✅ We recommend: Always gear up. Even for a 5-minute ride, gloves, a helmet, jacket, and boots can prevent lifelong injuries.

✅ We recommend: Know and follow Utah lane filtering laws, and do it safely: low speed, awareness, and consideration.

🔧 MAINTENANCE MYTHS

❌ MYTH

❌“Follow the pressure printed on the tire.”

That’s the maximum pressure, not the ideal one for your bike.

❌“If my bike ran fine in winter, it’s good to go now.”

After winter, your battery might be weak, tire pressure low, fuel stale, or carbs gummy.

❌“Used bikes save money.”

Sometimes. Other times, they’re a money pit in disguise.

❌“Heavy-duty tubes are always better.”

HD tubes are great for off-road abuse, but they can overheat or be harder to change for daily riders.

❌“Fuel additives boost performance or fix bad gas.”

Some stabilizers help keep fuel fresh, but they won’t “fix” old gas or act as miracle performance boosters.

❌”Regular revving keeps your engine healthy.”

Free-revving while idling just builds heat, wears parts, and wastes fuel.

✅ FACT

✅ We recommend: Always check your owner’s manual or swingarm sticker for the correct PSI, adjusted for load and riding conditions.

✅ We recommend: A full spring check. Want help? Schedule a pre-season tune-up or check out our Winter Storage Tips to avoid issues next year.

✅ We recommend: Never buy blind. Schedule our 30-minute pre-purchase inspection to catch hidden issues before they cost you.

✅ We recommend: Match your tube to your terrain and usage. Ask us if you’re not sure.

✅ We recommend: Use additives like STA-BIL during storage, and always run fresh, high-quality fuel—not lawnmower leftovers.

✅ We recommend: Take it for a real ride, or use a battery tender during downtime. Cold revving = no real benefit.

🔧 PERFORMANCE & CUSTOMIZATION MYTHS

❌ MYTH

❌“Aftermarket parts always improve performance”

Some do, but many aftermarket exhausts or intakes reduce performance if not tuned properly. You may lose torque or run lean.

❌“American made is always better.”

We love U.S. brands, however, even Harley, Indian, and big-name gear producers use global parts. The truth is: quality varies by component, not country.

❌“The newest model is always the best.”

New bikes often mean new tech. Although it doesn’t always mean better reliability or value.

❌”I’ve been riding for years. I don’t need a training course.”

Experience is great—but skills fade. And road conditions, laws, and bikes evolve.

✅ FACT

✅ We recommend: Tune with intent. Stay tuned for our upcoming post on Aftermarket Mods We Actually Recommend.

✅ We recommend: Focus on proven build quality and user experience. A well-made part, wherever it’s assembled.

✅ We recommend: Check out our upcoming feature on New vs. Legendary Bikes for perspective.

✅ We recommend: Take an advanced or refresher course every few years. Many insurance companies even offer discounts.

🚦 Final Thoughts: Let’s Keep Each Other Rolling

Whether you’re wrenching, riding, or just getting back in the saddle, having accurate information matters. The more truth we share as a riding community, the safer—and more fun—it gets for all of us.

✅ Want to ride smarter this season?

Bring your bike in for a spring checkup or safety inspection
Schedule a 30-min pre-purchase inspection before buying used
Ask us any myth you’ve heard—and let us bust it with facts

👇 Drop your questions, comments, or myths you’ve heard in the comments below or swing by the shop. We’re always down to talk bikes—and set the record straight.

Choosing The Perfect Ride: Skill Level

by super | May 26, 2025 | Choose The Perfect Ride, General Content, Highlights

Choosing The Perfect Ride: Skill Level

“Each type of off-road motorcycle is tailored to specific riding preferences and terrain…”

First things first: Let’s quickly talk about your skill level and the distinction between beginner, intermediate, and experienced riders. This is primarily based on their level of skill, riding experience, and proficiency in handling motorcycles. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between these rider categories.

Beginner Riders: Beginners may have just completed a motorcycle safety course or acquired their learner’s permit. They are still building fundamental riding skills and gaining confidence. If you’re new to riding, start with a lightweight and manageable bike. Consider a standard or cruiser-style motorcycle for a more comfortable and stable experience.

Intermediate Riders: Intermediate riders have spent more time on the road, gaining practical experience in various riding conditions. They are comfortable with basic maneuvers and have improved their riding skills.

As you gain confidence, you can explore sportier options like sportbikes or adventure bikes.

Safety gear remains a top priority for intermediate riders, as they continue to prioritize safety while enjoying more varied riding experiences.

“If you have to ask…”

Experienced Riders: Let’s be honest, if you have to ask, you’re probably not an experienced rider. Experienced riders have logged a significant number of miles and years on the road. They have navigated various terrains, weather conditions, and traffic situations, which has honed their riding abilities. Seasoned riders have a wide range of choices, depending on their preferences. Sportbikes, touring bikes, and even custom builds become possibilities. Experienced riders also know that there is always room for improvement and that additional training to continuously strive to improve their skills, ensuring they stay safe and maintain their riding proficiency.

Each type of off-road motorcycle is tailored to specific riding preferences and terrain, so choosing the right one depends on your experience level, the type of riding you intend to do, and your personal preferences.

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