Date; 25.03.2022

Does the thought of riding in the wet make your mouth go dry? Riding your motorcycle in the rain can be safe and—dare we say it—even fun, as long as you’re prepared with the right skill set and gear.

What exactly should you expect when riding in the rain, and what adjustments should you make as you ride?

Tip 1: Choose the right gear

Good waterproof apparel, like a rainsuit (two-piece or one), gloves, boots, and perhaps an electric heated vest, can keep you warm and dry in even the most persistent storm, which is the first key to enjoying a day spent in the rain. High-vis isn’t the most stylish, but in conditions of reduced visibility it increases the chance that other drivers will see you, something to keep in mind as you shop for gear. Waterproof gear tends to add warmth on its own, but if rain is in the forecast, consider bringing multiple thinner layers that you can add if you get chilly.

Another oft-overlooked piece of the gear puzzle is the helmet, which should be equipped with an anti-fog visor (i.e., Pinlock), a breath guard, or even a visor with electric defrost function. And either leave the tinted shield at home or bring along a clear spare; the last thing you need is a darkened view of a wet road. Keep your visor down and closed at all times if possible. Once rain or moisture gets inside it will be very difficult to defog.

Whatever combination of gear you end up with, make sure that it doesn’t intrude on your riding or distract you in any way. For example, you can’t work the controls with frozen fingers, but an extra-warm pair of gloves may be too bulky and not much better. Similarly, a neck warmer may be nice and toasty but limit you from turning your head enough for a shoulder check. You may have to search to find the right gear, but you should be able to find a nice balance between comfort and practicality for the conditions you intend to ride in.

Finally, if your wet-weather riding includes commuting, keep a change of clothes ready at work—just in case.

Tip 2: Ride smoother and smarter

There is one word to remember when riding in the rain: smooth. When it’s wet outside, everything you do on your motorcycle should be smooth, from throttle adjustments to braking to cornering. There’s a reason today’s motorcycles often include a Rain mode that cuts power and perhaps even smooths out the throttle mapping and/or increases ABS and traction control intervention.

Even with modern rider aids, roll on and off the throttle gently, and use your lean angle sparingly. Keeping your bike as upright as possible will reduce the chances of it sliding out from underneath you if you hit a slick spot. Increase your following distance and use your engine to help decelerate, braking smoothly (there’s that word again) instead of stabbing at the lever.

Tip 3: Be wary of intersections

Intersections are dangerous enough when you’re on a motorcycle, and unfortunately the rain makes things worse. They’re a collection of hazards: slippery oil spots where cars stop and idle, painted lines that can become like ice when wet (see next tip), and of course plenty of drivers who might not be paying as much attention as you.

Roundabouts are especially tricky, and can be slippery not just at the entrances and exits but also throughout the circle. Approach slowly to avoid having to brake suddenly, stay smooth, and limit your lean, and you’ll come out the other side right side up.

Tip 4: Watch out for surprises

When it’s wet out, situations that are nearly harmless in the dry can turn into unpleasant surprises. Keep an eye out for manhole covers, sealer pavement (tar snakes), painted lines, and fallen leaves, all of which are like black ice when they’re wet. If and when you do encounter any of these traction inhibitors, check first if there is a line that you could easily take around them. If not, resist braking or accelerating hard and roll over them without making any aggressive inputs.

Note that in case you do have to change your line or turn over a greasy section, it’s important to keep your hands relaxed on the handlebars and don’t lean the bike any more than necessary.

Standing water is another potential hazard, and is especially dangerous on the freeway where speeds may prevent you from slowing in time to avoid hydroplaning. Water will of course pool at low points, which on freeways is often the left-most lane where the concrete barrier prevents it from draining. Avoid using that lane and watch cars ahead of you for signs of water spray so you can spot problem areas in advance.

Tip 5: Find a dry line

Although this may seem obvious, it is amazing how many people we see riding in an area of the lane that is wet even though an adjacent area is dry. Dry pavement offers superior traction and maneuverability, so make sure you continually place yourself in the driest section of the lane (typically where the car tire tracks are).

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Over time, and as you practice these riding tips, you will find that rain riding (and even touring) can actually be satisfying, not to mention make you a better and more confident rider. Sure, each ride will vary, with city riding in stormy weather almost always being the most nerve-racking, but just because the clouds roll in doesn’t mean you can’t ride almost every day.

Are there any tips that we are missing, or is there anything else you try to keep in mind while riding in the rain? If so, comment below and let us know.

Source; 5 Tips for Riding a Motorcycle in the Rain | Cycle World