Rain Riding Tips

If you ride motorcycles, eventually the time will come that you'll end up riding in the rain. Maybe you commute to work or are on a trip. Either way, it's important to know what to do. We created the following guide with everything you need to know for safe rain riding. If you have any questions or need any motorcycle maintenance, visit Loewer Powersports & Equipment. You'll find us in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Your Motorcycle

The rain creates compromised road conditions, which means it's all the more important that your motorcycle is free of maintenance issues. A small performance issue now can become a huge issue on a wet, slick road. You'll want to conduct a pre-ride inspection to ensure your motorcycle can handle the rigors of rain riding.

Start by inspecting the tires. These are crucial for you maintaining enough traction (which is already compromised due to the rain). Make sure they have enough tread and are inflated to the correct level of air pressure. Your owner's manual will give you the right numbers for both.

Next, look at your lights. These help you see and be seen. Make sure they are all working well and clearly visible.

Third, examine your fluid levels. Check your engine oil, brake fluids, and so on. Top off anything that's low.

Finally, head out for a short test ride. Test your brakes, clutch, and throttle. Make sure everything is working right (and take it into the shop if it isn't).

Gear Up

You need to wear the proper gear to stay dry and warm. It's not just an issue of comfort - it's an issue of safety. When you get cold, your ability to focus and make those snap safety judgments is compromised. Stay warm, stay focused, and stay safe.

Wear plenty of layers - it'll keep you warmer than one bulky jacket. Keep in mind that when you ride your motorcycle, the wind chill can make the temperature feel up to 20 degrees colder. Put the lightest layer closest to your skin and the heaviest one as the final layer. 

For your outer layer, you'll want waterproof clothing. You'd be amazed at how cold even a small amount of moisture can feel when combined with the wind. Some riders opt for waterproof jackets and pants, while others invest in a one-piece riding suit.

Driving Tactics

You will need to adjust your riding to the compromised road conditions. The best thing you can do is leave plenty of space between you and other riders. Due to the lower traction, you'll need more space and time to bring your motorcycle to a full stop. Leaving plenty of room helps you avoid a collision. 

You will also want to do everything slower and more cautiously, from braking to lane changing. Try to avoid sudden movements as much as possible. Take things steady, slow, and safe.

Finally, be on the lookout for low traction obstacles. Steel plates that cover holes in construction zones become slick with water. Piles of leaves become a sticky paste. Intersections where cars idle and drop oil (that mixes with rain) become slippery. If you can, avoid these obstacles. When you can't, approach them with caution. 

With the right strategies and proactive driving, you can enjoy a safe time riding in the rain. If your motorcycle needs a tune-up before hitting the open road, visit Loewer Powersports & Equipment. We can do parts replacements and conduct service appointments to get your motorcycle running like new. We proudly serve those in Rapides Parish (including Alexandria) as well as Lafayette, Shreveport, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana.