We can always choose not to ride in the winter, however if your out on a ride and the heavens open with rain and blowing a gale, what can you do other than leave the bike and get a bus?
Before you ride, check the weather condition. If there is a forecast for severe weather consider an alternative route.
The below guides are assuming that you do not have any extra gear with you other than your normal summer riding gear.
Riding a motorbike in the rain can be dangerous because of the increased risk of sliding, here are some tips to try keep you safe:
Avoid riding immediately after it rains – roads are the slickest when its raining and moving grit.
Ride smoothly – be calculated with everything you do.
Increase following distance – give yourself more time to slow or stop, avoid last minute breaking.
Watch out for standing water – puddles can hide potholes, manholes and road markings.
Avoid slippery surfaces – stay off painted lines, tar snakes, manhole covers and metal plates.
Ride in a straight line – if you cant avoid slippery surfaces, try riding across in a straight line
Use modern sport touring tyres – these offer a smooth ride with good grip.
Rain suit – I always carry the Zorax rain suit, see our review.
Riding in wind, try these tips:
Stay relaxed – stay loose and relaxed on the bike, tensing can make it harder to handle the bike.
Lean into the wind – when in a cross wind, lean into it to counteract its effects, you can do this by applying slight pressure to the handlebars in the direction of the wind.
Use your knees – squeeze the bike, this should maintain stability.
Keep weight low – this will minimise the winds effect on the bike.
Be aware of your surroundings – be aware of other vehicles or terrain which could change and hit you with a blast of wind.
Article written by Nige.
Last update: November 2024
Nige commutes to work on one of his ‘trusty’ bikes in all weather, his goal in life is a RTW tour on a motorbike.
We may receive a commission if you purchase a product using the affiliate links on any page of this website. This is at no cost to the purchaser, however does support our website and helps us to continue to build with more great content.