Riding in the Rain: How to be Safe

Many motorcycle riders prefer to avoid the rain, but sometimes you get caught out and have no other choice but to ride through it. In the virtually inevitable situation in which this happens, it's important to know how to ride safely. Cycles Of Jacksonville has put together this short guide for keeping safe while riding in the rain so that you'll never be lost.

Have the Right Gear

The first step to being prepared for the rain is having the right gear, and having it ready to go when rain starts. This will help you keep comfortable and focused through the deluge.

You'll want appropriate rainwear, which fits over your normal riding gear. This can be kept in saddlebags for just this occasion, and should be able to be slipped on without much effort so you can stay as dry as possible. This may seem unnecessary considering how thick normal riding gear can be, but once clothing gets wet, and once the wind chills you off, you'll wish dearly that you'd invested in rainwear.

Next, you'll need a helmet that can handle the rain. Helmets with anti-fogging protection are crucial for maintaining visibility. You can also get heated helmets, but unless you're riding in rain or cold weather constantly, this may prove unnecessarily cumbersome. Finally, a solid pair of gloves will keep your hands warm and dextrous even in the wettest, coldest conditions.

Understanding Friction

Once you've taken care of the gear, the one thing you can prepare for, you'll need to address the things you can't prepare for. Once the rain starts, even a miniscule layer of water can make it feel like you're riding on an ice rink. This means that you need to take corners much slower, brake far in advance of where you normally would, and give yourself double the amount of space between yourself and the next car that you normally would take. Don't try to hit the gaps in traffic or race past slow traffic because even at highway speeds, your back wheel may break loose. Any metal construction plates will offer precisely zero traction.

Slow Down, Eyes Up

Every move becomes more important when you're riding in the rain. Slow down and pay extra attention to everything going on around you. Any cars attempting to merge into your lane will be harder to avoid and anyone who slams on their brakes can be a road block you can't avoid. For this reason, keep it slow, and be stingy with your throttle. Small miscalculations can have major consequences.

Watch the Intersections

Intersections are become especially dangerous for motorcycles during rainstorms. Idling cars often leave intersections greased with oil and fluids, which help the road feel like a skating rink. So even if you have a green light, make sure to slow it down so that you can avoid anyone who tries to pull out in front of you.

Find Dry Road

Because of the way blacktop naturally settles and wears down, there are often two low spots in the road where most cars put their wheels. These lower areas can collect water which makes it extremely dangerous for motorcycles. Avoid these areas and stick to the higher ground in the center or on the shoulder. This will allow you to have the most traction at all times.

Remember, the basic fact of driving in the rain with a motorcycle is that you can count on having half the amount of traction that you normally would. Give yourself more space to do everything, slow it down, and wear the proper gear. Cycles Of Jacksonville sells the best gear and accessories for safe riding in the rain. Stop by our Jacksonville, Florida dealership if you live near St. Augustine or Orlando. We can help you find everything you need to keep safe on the road!