Nothing beats riding with the sun shining on your back. A nice warm spring day seems to bring out motorcycles and bugs in equal numbers. Unfortunately, there will be times when the skies open up and riding in the rain becomes unavoidable. Here are some strategies for riding in wet conditions.
First, don't panic! If you're caught out unaware, consider slowing down or even stopping. Some showers and thunderstorms pass quickly and by stopping you might be able to avoid the rain entirely. Check the weather forecast, be prepared for the rain with the proper clothing and motorcycle gear, and plan your trip accordingly. If you don't stop, you should be aware of the additional risks.
Slick roads :
The first few minutes after the rain starts can be the most dangerous time to ride. The water mixes with the oil, dirt and road debris creating a slick surface. Motorcycle tires put down a very narrow footprint and once the pavement gets slippery, traction is limited.
Try to avoid riding during this initial period. The water will eventually wash away the road grime and the pavement will then just be wet. While traction is still reduced, modern tire technology will still supply up to 80 percent of the grip of dry weather riding. Even so, a rider must exercise restraint and be smooth in the application of all controls.
Throttle and clutch control must be smooth -- avoid sudden acceleration or braking especially in a curve where traction is already limited. Certain roadway features like railroad tracks, bridge gratings and even painted lines and markings will be very slippery and should be crossed with care. Above all, leave extra time and space so you don't have to take any sudden actions.
Hydroplaning :
A vehicle will hydroplane when water builds up and creates a layer of water between the tires and the road. Hydroplaning results in a complete loss of traction and will cause a skid or a fall and must be avoided at all costs. Normally, hydroplaning will occur when you try to drive through a deep puddle, but it could also occur during periods of heavy rain when the roadway does not have time to drain sufficiently. If you notice these circumstances, slow down and consider stopping if you continue to encounter possible hydroplaning conditions.
When shopping for rain gear, make sure there is reflective material somewhere on it. Don't buy it if there is none. This passenger has it on her arms and legs.
Reduced visibility makes it hard to see :
Riding in the rain has other risks as well. Your ability to see ahead of you is reduced. Rain droplets will hit your shield or goggles and, depending on temperature, they may also fog up, impairing your vision. If you normally ride with a tinted visor, as I do, make sure you bring a clear shield that you can use when the rain starts.
You can also treat your shield with an anti-fog product. At the minimum, your shield or goggles should be clean and have a minimum of scratches that impair visibility. Wear gloves that have a rubber wiper on the left hand so you can clear your shield quickly if needed. Do not override your visibility; leave sufficient room and look as far ahead as possible to anticipate hazards.
Reduced visibility prevents others from seeing you :
Just as you have difficulty seeing, other drivers will have a hard time seeing you. Now is the best time to use bright and reflective material as part of your riding gear. Consider purchasing a reflective vest. It can be carried with you in a tank bag or saddlebag and taken out when visibility is poor (or at night).
Sometimes we're forced to ride in the rain. These riders have a schedule to keep. They've rested and warmed up, ready to brave the wet conditions once again.
While riding in the rain may never be as pleasurable as being out on a bright, warm, sunny day, it can be tolerable if you're prepared with the right gear and attitude. If you're aware of the weather, prepared for the rain and cold and outfit you and your motorcycle properly, then riding in the rain doesn't have to be unpleasant. Practice riding as smoothly as possible, avoid panic and leave yourself enough space and time to avoid any sudden actions so you will be able to ride in wet weather more safely.
My thoughts are a little off compared to the rest. I ride in the rain alot. Get a good wide straight road, with no traffic. 1st, 2nd gear, slow speed, let it tach up sum, let off, snap the gas, break it loose. Let it spin and step out some, as soon as you feel it, let off, progress to a small drift.
