Tips for Riding Your Motorcycle in the Rain

Today, you went out to ride and you forgot to check the weather. I’m sure this has happen to all of us at some point. Then, before you know it storm clouds begin moving in, drops of rain begin to fall on your helmet and you are hoping you can make it to your destination, before you are drenched in rain.

For starter, the best option would be to pull over at a gas station, a cafe or somewhere to get some coverage. And hopefully the rain passes soon, then you can get back to riding.

Now, if you are just a wild card and don’t care about the rain… here are some tips to keep you safe when riding your motorcycle in the rain:

Be sure to ride in the car tire tracks to prevent skidding on oil that will usually be in the middle of the road.
To avoid hydroplaning, drive slow and use your clutch more frequently and apply front brakes with a lighter pressure than usual.
Try to keep a rain proof poncho (a high visibility, brightly colored, poncho would be best) in your bag, so you can whip it out to cover yourself and your backpack to keep you dry.
Also, it may be safer to ride on main roads vs. highways so you don’t have to ride at faster speeds that will decrease your chances of any mishaps and if you happen to go down aid will be nearer and more accessible.
Ride at the very least 2-3 car lengths behind other vehicles in the case of emergency stopping.
If you have traction control, be sure to use it and have it set to the highest setting.
And lastly, if you feel your bike isn’t responding well for various reasons, or if it’s increasingly becoming harder for you to see, don’t take chances…..PULL OVER. This can be a matter of life and death.