Tips for Riding in the Rain

Some tips from Scoot! Magazine's Josh Rogers:

The rainy season is upon us and I know that some people are hesitant to ride in the rain or when the ground is wet. So I decided to list some tips on riding in adverse weather conditions. The bottom line really is, make sure your actions are smooth. Don't brake too fast don't accelerate too fast and you will be fine. There are very few differences between wet and dry but you do need to exercise extra caution.

1. Stay out of the middle of the lane. The middle of the lane is where cars drip all their oil and stuff making it very slippery. Especially important during the first few rains.
2. As much fun as it is, try not to drive through puddles. It reduces your ability to brake and makes everything more slippery. Besides you never know how deep a hole may be under the puddle.
3. Show extra caution when turning.
4. Be extremely careful when riding over metal grates/plates, manhole covers and painted lines they become very slippery. If you can avoid them, do so. Whatever you do don't slam on the brakes while you are going over one.
5. Make sure you have the proper tire pressure.
6. Get a riding suit even if its one of those plastic rain-slick things. The worst part about riding in the rain is getting wet.
7. Do not put your hands/gloves in plastic bags or the like: you may slip off the bars.
8. Make sure all of your lights work, especially your taillight and brake light. Rain means that people have reduced visibility.
9. A full-face helmet will keep you drier than a 3/4 or 1/2 helmet.
10. If you have a full-face helmet, use an anti fog treatment or liner in the visor to keep good visibility.
11. Stay warmer and drier with a scooter skirt.  

I hope this helps everyone I have been riding for a while and have done my fair share of riding in the rain. Remember that riding in the rain is easier than you think. Once you have done it a couple of times you will have built your confidence and become a better rider, wet or dry.

Appropriate blog entry soundtrack: