In Colorado, rain is often inevitable - even in the winter. To avoid unnecessary danger, most motorcyclists simply don't ride when it's rainy. However, that's not always an option. Sometimes, motorcyclists need to ride all year long - even in the rain, snow, and ice. The following are some helpful tips for riding your motorcycle in the rain:
Inclement Weather Gear
Having the proper gear is key to staying safe in the rain.
- Visor- When it begins to rain, your ability to see is the first thing to be compromised. Your visor and your windscreen can both be treated with an aftermarket product used to wick away water. Also remember to protect your visor against fogging.
- Gloves- Keeping your hands warm and try is essential for safely controlling your bike. The right gloves can keep you out of an accident caused by loss of feeling or movement in your hands. Study up on the best gloves for rainy riding and keep them with you at all times.
- Raincoat- Riding in the rain is going to make you cold. Staying as warm and dry as possible will allow you to focus on riding safely, and any rider who's ever been caught in the rain knows that just any jacket won't do the trick. Having dedicated rain gear is the best option. One-piece rain suits are highly recommended to reduce gaps and water penetration. At the very least, carry a jacket with built in rain protection with you.
- Boots- Because your feet are responsible for changing gears and applying the rear brake, it is paramount to keep them warm and dry. The right boot can do just that. Make sure the boot extends into your pant leg and treat it with the right product to wick moisture away. Wool socks are helpful too, because they will keep your feet warm even when they get wet. Keeping a spare pair with you will be helpful on cold, wet rides.
- Tires - It is important to have the right tires for the rainy season. Slick tires are not appropriate for rain - or for snow.
Visibility
Don't forget- if you're having a hard time seeing the road, other motorists are going to have a hard time seeing you. Increase your visibility to others by wearing brightly colored or reflective clothing.
Double-check that all your lights are in good working order before you head out on any ride.
Being Smart and Staying Safe
Riding in inclement weather presents an entirely different set of challenges. Inexperienced riders may do best by avoiding rainy riding altogether. Check the forecast and plan your trip accordingly. Once the rain starts:
- Watch out for puddles. Puddles can be dangerous because they can be deeper than they appear.
- Watch for oil on the road. Once the rain starts, oil can rise to the surface of the road and create dangerous and slippery surfaces for motorcyclists. If you notice a rainbow on the ground - be careful and avoid riding over it. Most often this occurs during the first hour of rainfall; however, if it is just drizzling, it can take several hours for the oil and dirt to be washed away.
- Be cautious around railway crossings. Railway tracks are metal and slippery when they are wet. As such, railway crossings should be driven straight across and NOT on an angle.
- Be cautious when you brake. If you do need to brake, apply more rear brake than you would normally apply. If your rear wheel starts to slide, you can correct it easier than you can if your front wheel starts to slide. Brake gently when you do brake and if you need to suddenly brake hard, pump your brakes so you do not skid.
If you do get caught in bad weather, pull over if you can until the storm passes. If that isn't possible, slow down and stay safe by making yourself as visible as possible to others.
Contact Our Denver Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
If you or someone you love is injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to review all of your legal options with an experienced Denver motorcycle accident lawyer. We can help you obtain the money you need to recover from all of your injuries.
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