1. Cover your skin especially if the heat is low in humidity and also to reduce water loss from evaporation. Also creates a cooler microclimate around your body and protection from sunburn.

2. Stay cool by wetting you clothes with water. This is my favorite! Why? Because the relief is almost immediate. I like to soak my pants, helps to keep the engine heat from baking my legs.

3. Wear light colors. Darker colors will absorb the sun's rays and be warmer than light or white clothing, which reflects light and heat.

4. Stop frequently to rest and refresh your self with a drink of water. Try to find shade and cool down.

5. Fluids, fluids! Drink lots of fluids! Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Check out the CDC's Extreme Heat page. Quick tip: Set a reminder or keep track of time. I use my MP3 Player's alarm. Its beeps over a song so I know when to drink my water.

6. INPORTANT! Recognize dehydration. Here are some signs to look for. Less amount of urine, urine will be darker in color. fatigue, headache, dizziness and cramps. I like to ride with the Ogio 1950 H20 Backpack. It has a built in hydration reservoir. I can't stress enough how important it is to recognize the signs of dehydration. Check out the CDC's Tips for Preventing Heat-Related Illness.

7. Take care of yourself and your motorcycle! Make a check list and follow it! Things like cell phones, maps etc. Tire condition, oil level, chain etc. Kinda like don't bring a knife to a gun fight type of stuff.

I could go on and on about taking care of your self when riding your motorcycle in the heat. Use your brain! Do the research, prepare yourself and have fun!

Helpful Links:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heat_stroke
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/
http://www.texasheart.org/hic/topics/hsmart/hydrate.cfm