Summer is finally coming and with it a return to adventure riding. Most of our bikes have spent the colder winter months in storage or undergoing repairs and modifications. As riders we’ve been forced to be content with reading stories and planning trips. If, like me, you are situated in the American southwest, you know how hot it can get even early in the season.

Click Here to read "Riding in Extreme Heat: Lessons from the Australian Outback"

The need to stay hydrated and to be properly dressed during summer riding cannot be over emphasized. Ice water filled back packs and extra water containers should be mandatory on every ride. An electrolyte drink should always be included as well. SPF 50 sunscreen on exposed skin and SPF clothing should be worn under protective gear.

Cooling vest are available and every effort should be made to allow for air flow through clothing for normal evaporation of sweat. Those light material neck gaiters can also be soaked in water to provide an evaporative cooling effect.

Also note, strenuous activities in a desert environment can require a minimum of 5-6 liters of fluid per day.

Now is the time to review the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These conditions can develop quickly on a hot sunny day while working hard, riding over technical terrain. Just having the furnace of hot dry air blowing over the body on long stretches of pavement can also lead to trouble quickly.

The progression from simple heat cramps and heat syncope to heat exhaustion and stroke can happen quickly. Immediate intervention is necessary at the first signs of a heat related illness. It’s better to err on the side of caution and hydrate and cool off before you start to feel any of the following symptoms.

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion 

• Cool, moist skin with goose bumps
• Heavy sweating
• Faintness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Weak, rapid pulse
• Low blood pressure, syncopal episode 
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea
• Headache

Heat Exhaustion Treatment:

• Stop all activity and rest
• Lie down 
• Move to a cooler place
• Get in the shade
• Rehydrate, Drink cool water or sports drinks

Symptoms of Heat Stroke

• Dizziness and light headedness
• Throbbing headache
• Lack of sweating
• Hot, red, dry skin
• Muscle cramps and/or weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
• Rapid and shallow breathing
• Confusion, disorientation, staggering
• Seizures
• Unconsciousness

Heat Stroke Treatment:

• Call 911. This is a life-threatening condition. 
• Wet clothing to promote cooling by evaporation
• Ice packs (if available) to groin and axilla (armpit)
• Get out of the sun
• Lie down
• Fan patient

Stuff to Carry

In the summer months I carry an umbrella for shade, a lightweight 6’x8’ folded tarp, expandable tent poles, a few spiked stakes and paracord to quickly erect a shaded area. These easily fit in my pannier with an extensive medical kit. Do not venture out into the desert alone and always have a satellite communication device and know how to use it.

Riding in the heat can be managed, but it requires plenty of water and ways to stay cool. If you’re riding alone, be sure to stop more often than less. If you’re riding in a group, it’s a good idea to check on each other. If someone start riding, walking or talking funny, be sure to give them a good look over. Stay safe and with a few smart preventative steps, you can beat the heat!