Safety Tips for Motorcycle Riding in the Rain
Safety Tips for Motorcycle Riding in the Rain
Even if you prefer to ride your motorcycle on sunny days, you never know when it might rain on your parade. The weather forecast can’t always be trusted, after all, and it pays to be prepared for anything. Rain presents some unique hazards to motorcycle riders, but the following tips from Carter Powersports can help you stay safe.
Carter Powersports is your trusted motorcycle dealer in Las Vegas, NV. We welcome customers from Henderson and Boulder City, NV.
Prepare Your Bike
You should always perform a maintenance check before you hit the road, and that becomes particularly important when rain is in the forecast. When you get caught in bad weather, you want to feel certain your motorcycle is up for the task. Who wants to deal with reduced traction on a bike that needs repairs?
Make sure you follow all these steps to ensure a successful ride:
- Inspect your motorcycle tires, check the air pressure, and inflate as needed.
- Check the oil level and consistency, and change the oil if necessary.
- Top off your fuel tank.
- Take your bike for a quick spin to confirm the brakes are working properly, and check the brake fluid.
- Test your lights and turn signals, and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
Stock Up on Rain Gear
The typical riding outfit consists mainly of denim and leather, and these materials are not suitable for wet weather. A one-piece rain suit is a simple solution that you can slip on over your street clothes. You could also opt for a waterproof jacket and pants. Either way, you should invest in a pair of waterproof boots.
Good gloves are also a necessity. For riding in the rain, choose insulated gloves that can provide you with a solid grip on the controls. If you normally wear goggles, you might want to swap them out for a helmet with a full face shield to prevent fogging.
Last but not least, you should include some reflective gear in your ensemble to boost visibility. The easiest option is to throw on a reflective vest over the rest of your outfit.
Stay Vigilant – and Stay Visible
When riding in the rain, you should adapt your riding style to account for the weather. This means slowing down a little to ensure you don’t skid on wet pavement. Keep in mind that your brakes may take longer to engage in the rain.
Rainy conditions impede visibility, so keep your lights on and pay close attention to your surroundings. Watch out for hazards and obstacles on the road ahead that could cause you to slide out. Remember that other vehicles can behave unpredictably in wet conditions, and practice caution.
We hope you found these tips helpful! Looking for more motorcycle safety advice? Feel free to ask the qualified staff at Carter Powersports. You can find us in Las Vegas, NV.