Riding your motorcycle on the open roads offers a sense of freedom and adventure that few other activities can match and as many of us know, this freedom comes with a set of responsibilities - don’t we all love those? Ensuring the safety of yourself and others while you are on your machine is of the utmost importance.
And that brings us to our topic for today: Riding in the rain. No matter how good of a rider you think yourself to be, however many years of experience you have… in wet weather, all it takes is a split second of overconfidence to have you eating your words (and possibly a bit of dirt too). One of the most challenging conditions for any motorcyclist - decades of experience or no - is riding in wet weather. Visibility, traction, and control are significantly impacted by slick roads and heavy downpours, making it crucial to take extra precautions. We’ve put together a list of these precautions and tips to help keep the riding community safe in the rainy winter months.
So, keep reading - learners, occasional riders, commuters, the experienced. You might learn something that could save your life one day or perhaps save another's. Let’s all live to ride another day.
1. The Right Gear
Here is where the importance of waterproof gear comes in. Getting wet means getting cold, and once you start shivering, your focus shifts. Riding along whilst thinking, “I’m freezing - can I still feel my hands?? Maybe a little…” is not only miserable but dangerous. Your focus is no longer on the road, it's on your discomfort. In any and all weather conditions, your focus should be solely on the road.
So, your first line of defense against wet weather is the right gear. Invest in high-quality, waterproof gear to keep you dry and warm. Jackets, pants, gloves, boots, the lot - if you’re riding frequently in the rain, you want these things to be waterproof. Gear technology has come a long way and there are some really great waterproof gear options in the market. From removable liners to Gore-Tex laminate, there’s everything you could need. Even if you don’t plan on riding in the rain, there are lightweight rain jackets and pants designed to fit over your riding gear that you can keep with you to throw on when the rain does come. And in terms of your helmet, ensure it has an anti-fog visor or use an anti-fog treatment to maintain clear visibility.
2. Check your tyres!
Tyres are crucial in wet conditions. Ensure they have adequate tread depth to channel water away and maintain grip on the road. Consider switching to tyres designed specifically for wet weather riding if you frequently find yourself riding in the rain. Regularly check tyre pressure, as it can affect traction; lower pressure slightly in wet conditions for better grip, but stay within manufacturer recommendations.
3. Smooth and Controlled Riding
Wet roads can be particularly slippery, especially when mixed with oil and debris. A phenomenon known as "summer ice" occurs during long dry periods when oil accumulates on the road. When the first rain hits, this buildup becomes extremely slippery, creating conditions similar to ice. Always be cautious during the initial rainfall after a dry spell to avoid this hidden hazard. Smooth and controlled inputs are essential:
- Braking: Apply brakes smoothly and progressively to avoid locking the wheels. Use both front and rear brakes together.
- Acceleration: Gradual and smooth throttle application helps prevent wheel spin.
- Cornering: Enter corners more slowly than you would in dry conditions. Maintain a steady speed and avoid sudden movements.
4. Increase Following Distance
Wet roads reduce traction, which can extend stopping distances. Increase your following distance to at least double the usual gap between you and the vehicle in front. This gives you more time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic conditions. If you’re comfortable with a two-second following distance in the dry, consider extending that to four in the wet.
5. Stay Visible
Rain can reduce visibility for both you and other road users. Make sure your headlights are on, and consider adding reflective strips to your gear and bike to enhance your visibility. The Richa Infinity 2 Flare Jacket is a great example of high visibility gear, brightly reflecting headlights of oncoming cars or any vehicles behind you. Bright-colored gear can also make you more noticeable in low-light conditions.
6. Be Aware of Road Hazards
Wet weather can hide various road hazards such as potholes, debris, and oil patches. Keep an eye out for:
- Puddles: Avoid riding through large puddles; they can hide potholes and cause hydroplaning.
- Painted Surfaces: Road markings, manhole covers, and metal grates can be extremely slippery when wet. Try to avoid them or cross them at a right angle to reduce the risk of slipping.
- Leaves and Debris: Wet leaves and debris can be as slippery as ice and big branches in the road can wipe you right out. Take your time and avoid them if possible.
- Landslips: On the winding roads that cut through the hills of New Zealand, you never know when you’ll come across a landslip. Take every corner as if there’s a big pile of dirt waiting for you on the other side.
7. Stay Relaxed and Focused
Riding in wet conditions can be stressful. Stay relaxed to maintain control of your bike. Tension can lead to jerky movements and reduce your ability to react smoothly. Focus on the road ahead and anticipate potential hazards.
8. Know When to Stop
Sometimes, the safest option is to wait out the worst of the weather. If the rain is too heavy, visibility is poor, or you feel uncomfortable, find a safe place to stop and wait until conditions improve.
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And that concludes our list of essentials - if you think we’ve missed anything critical, we’d love to hear any additional tips you might have. Riding a motorcycle in wet weather requires extra caution and preparation. By wearing the right gear, maintaining your bike, and adjusting your riding style to suit the conditions, you can stay safe and enjoy the ride. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.
Stay safe out there and keep the rubber side down!
- The Team at North Coast.
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