Wet Weather Riding

When riding a motorcycle in wet weather conditions, it's crucial to take certain precautions to ensure safety. Here are some tips to follow:

1. Wear appropriate gear: Invest in waterproof or water-resistant riding gear, including a rain suit or waterproof jacket and pants, gloves, and boots. Ensure that your gear has reflective elements for better visibility.

2. Slow down and increase following distance: Wet roads reduce traction, making it more difficult to stop or maneuver quickly. Reduce your speed and increase the distance between your motorcycle and the vehicle ahead to allow for longer braking distances.

3. Smooth and Gentle inputs: Be smooth with your throttle, brake, and steering inputs to prevent skidding or loss of control. Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or sharp turns, as these actions can dramatically reduce tire grip on wet surfaces.

4. Be cautious at intersections and painted surfaces: Intersections, crosswalks, and painted surfaces can become particularly slippery when it's raining. Slow down and approach such areas with caution, braking in advance if necessary.

5. Avoid puddles and standing water: Puddles and standing water on the road can hide hazards or cause hydroplaning. If you can't avoid them, slow down and ride straight through, keeping a steady and controlled speed.

6. Increase visibility: Make sure your headlights are working and are on to improve visibility for yourself and other road users. Use reflective tapes or stickers on your motorcycle to be more conspicuous.

7. Be prepared for reduced visibility: Rain can significantly reduce visibility. Ensure you use a good polish on your visor doing this will enable the water to bead and blow off. Try not to wipe your visor as this may spread oils etc from the road and reduce your visibility. Ensure your mirrors are clean, and consider using anti-fogging products to avoid fogging up.

8. Maintain your motorcycle: Check your tyres' tread depth and ensure they are properly inflated, as adequate traction is essential when riding in wet conditions. Ensure your brakes are in good working condition and test them before heading out.

9. If it’s flooded forget it!

Remember, wet road surfaces reduce tire grip, and visibility can be compromised. It's essential to ride cautiously, be mindful of your surroundings, and give yourself extra time to react. If the rain is heavy or conditions become unsafe, it is best to find shelter and wait for the weather to improve before continuing your ride.