Tips for Safe Riding in the Rain

The seasons change, and with the arrival of winter often comes a major dose of rain and precipitation. This brings new challenges for motorcycle riders. Slippery roads can easily lead to accidents if you’re not careful.

We here at Barnes Bros. Motorcycles & Off-Road care about our customers’ safety, so we created this short guide to provide some basic tips for riding a motorcycle in the rain. For all your motorcycle needs, stop by Barnes Bros. Motorcycles & Off-Road. We’re located in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania and we proudly serve the area of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Equipment

The equipment you use will not only help to keep you drier and warmer, but it will also help to keep you free from distraction and able to successfully control your bike. As with all motorcycle riding, the first place to start is the helmet. When riding in the rain, you’ll probably want a full face helmet. Full face helmets will keep much more rain away from your eyes and face.

One of the best solutions for keeping dry while you ride is a full body riding suit. A full body riding suit gives you seamless protection from the rain. Because there are no areas for air to get in, you’ll also stay much warmer. Make sure you invest in some quality gloves as well. You’ll want a pair that’s waterproof and insulated, but make sure the gloves aren’t too bulky or you could have problems using the bike’s controls.

Low Traction Zones

Low traction areas can be a big problem when you’re riding in the rain. Some areas will be much worse than others. In particular, anywhere water can pool will present a major problem. For example, most roads wear out in a consistent way that causes there to be two parallel trenches made by car tires. These trenches will often fill with water and become a hydroplaning risk. Another area where water might pool is the inside of banked turns. This is especially true in the fall when leaves and road debris clog up drainage areas.

The steel plates used in road construction zones can also be extremely slippery when wet. You’ll want to avoid braking or turning when you’re riding on a steel plate because changes in direction and speed can result in complete loss of traction and a slide out.

Finally, make sure to be careful near intersections. Over time, idling cars will drop oil and engine fluids onto the ground, which will build up into a slippery area. When you add water to these areas, things only get worse. You’ll have to get used to accelerating and braking very carefully.

Visibility

A hard rain can really reduce visibility conditions when you ride. This is a problem for motorcycle riders and car drivers alike. If you have your full face helmet and visor on, you’ll be able to maintain your ability to see what’s going on around you. But to make sure the other motorists can see you, keep your lights on and wear a high visibility vest or jacket.

Slow it Down

The most important thing to remember when riding in the rain is to slow down. With less traction, everything will be more difficult and more dangerous. Speeding up, braking, and turning can all be problems that lead to slide outs and skids. The best way to handle the lack of traction is to slow down and give yourself more time to do everything. Take longer to accelerate, brake, or turn in these areas and you’ll be in control of the situation.

Hopefully, this guide provided you with some valuable information about riding in the rain. For motorcycle and riding gear, stop by Barnes Bros. Motorcycles & Off-Road. We’re located near Pittsburgh in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania.