The first minutes are the most dangerous
When it starts to rain after a long dry spell, the water mixes dust, oil and rubber from the asphalt into a slippery layer. The road is most slippery in the first tens of minutes of rain. If you can, wait out the first wave under a roof.
Smoothly and with a margin
- Slow down and increase the distance from the vehicles in front of you – the braking distance gets longer.
- Apply throttle, brake and change gear more smoothly than usual.
- Enter corners more slowly and with less lean.
- Brake mainly while upright, not while leaning.
- Use both brakes; the front one still provides most of the braking effect.
Where it is slipperiest
- road markings and pedestrian crossings,
- manhole covers, rails and metal bridge joints,
- rainbow patches of diesel, especially at petrol stations and at junctions,
- fallen leaves and mud on country roads,
- cobbled sections.
Try to cross these surfaces upright, without braking and without adding throttle.
Puddles and aquaplaning
Deep puddles can hide a hole in the road. If you cannot go around them, cross them slowly and straight. At higher speed there is a risk of aquaplaning on a continuous layer of water. If you feel the motorcycle floating, do not brake and do not jerk the steering – ease off the throttle gently and hold your line.
Be visible
In the rain, car drivers see you much less well. A reflective vest or clothing with reflective elements and a light colour will help. Switch on your lights and keep the visor and mirrors clean.
Rain gear
- a waterproof suit or an oversuit worn over your clothes,
- waterproof gloves and boot covers,
- a visor with an anti-fog insert (Pinlock) or an anti-fog agent,
- a dry cloth in your pocket for wiping the visor.
After riding in the rain
After arriving, wipe down the motorcycle, especially the chrome, and lube the chain – rain washes the lubricant off it. Tyres with deep tread clear water much better in the rain, so check their condition before the season.
