Motorcycle Riding in the Rain
While you might not have planned to ride your motorcycle in the rain, there are times when it’s unavoidable. You might already be on your bike headed to your destination when the rain hits out of nowhere. That’s why you need to be prepared to safely ride should the situation arise. Here at Nielsen Enterprises, your safety is very important to us. We’ve gathered some useful techniques for riding your motorcycle in the rain, so read on to learn more!
Prep Your Motorcycle
Before you even attempt to ride in the rain, you’ll want to be sure you’ve properly prepared your motorcycle. Inspect your bike in advance to avoid running into issues. You’ll be glad that you found an issue in the comfort of your driveway or garage rather than in the freezing cold rain on the highway.
Start by checking your tires to ensure they have enough tread to give you traction on the slick, wet roads. They also need to be correctly inflated to the level of pressure that’s recommended in the owner’s manual. Next, check and make sure you’ve got enough engine oil and brake fluids. Test your brakes, throttle, and clutch. Last but not least, confirm that all the lights are as visible and bright as they should be. If you spot any issues, you’ll want to address them prior to hitting the road.
Gear Up
You’ll need the everyday protection from the road as usual, but you should adapt your usual gear to the unique circumstances you’ll be facing during a wet ride. If you wear leather clothes, remember that won’t mix very well with water.
Consider investing in a one-piece rain suit. This covers up your clothes and keeps them protected from the rain. These suits are designed to provide seamless protection so you’ll remain dry. Another solution you might find more affordable is to get a waterproof riding jacket and waterproof pants.
A full-face helmet is the best option here since it will cover your entire head and eyes from the rain. Goggles might allow water in and make it difficult for you to see the road. Make sure your helmet has a face shield that’s waterproof. Don’t forget about a pair of solid riding gloves. You’ll want to keep your hands warm so you can manipulate the controls on your motorcycle. As always, wear a sturdy pair of riding boots with a good grip.
Watch for Hazards
Wet riding can turn situations that are usually harmless into a danger zone. Steel plates are common on city streets for covering holes in construction zones. When wet, they provide zero traction and become extremely slippery. Don’t make a quick change in your speed or direction while riding across steel plates, as you might end up sliding.
Always try to avoid low-traction obstacles. If you have no choice but to ride over them, be sure to approach them with extreme caution.
Now that you’re prepared to ride your motorcycle in the rain, it’s time to hit the road! If you’ve got any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Nielsen Enterprises in Lake Villa, IL. We proudly serve all those in Chicago, IL, and Milwaukee, WI.