Relatively new rider and I'm feeling really good riding in clear and dry conditions. I basically ride everyday to get the experience I need. Also, this forum has been very valuable with tips and tricks to keep me safe.

Living in Seattle, we are about to hit the rain season. I picked up some bright rain gear this past weekend, and I'd still like to get some riding in when it rains or wet conditions.

So what tips do you have for riding in wet conditions? From gear, to riding tips, and safety. Just would like to get a data dump on how people approach as I'd prefer that my bike isn't a garage queen during the fall and spring.

Thanks in advance. (and perfectly fair to say, "don't do it, not worth it").

 

Cage drivers aren't really looking for us in the summer and even more so in the rain. Be extra diligent during inclement weather. Roads around here are well worn and have wheel ruts where water pools. Watch out so you don't hydroplane. The roads have been dry for some time and have accumulated oil making them extra slick when the first rains come. If we get some decent soakers this week it'll help move some of that oil away.

 

In the rain we get cold, it also inhibits the best decisions if exposed to the cold and wet for a longer period of time.
Be CAREFULL !

 

Just my two cents from riding a very long time.. Remember, the front tire contact patch has to handle braking, counter steering and centrifugal forces and in the rain its got less to offer.
If you don't know about counter steering, google it and understand it. It all comes down to a light touch on the bars. Try and limit inputs to the front tire to just one thing at a time While breaking, try NOT to counter steer. While leaned over , don't brake etc..And painted arrows, lines or anything are NOT your friend. Painted stop lines or arrows at a light, when wet can be slippery as heck so try and stay to one side and if you cant, at least do most slowing down before you get to it. Same with accelerating, do it gently as the back wheel rolls over the painted line.

 

Having 40 some odd years of riding experience, my first suggestion is don't ride in the rain unless you must. LOL Increase your following distance, make sure you ride in the cages mirror, Make sure they see you. Do not ride in the middle of the lane, cars and truck drop oil and lubricants and when it rains it is very slippery. Same thing at stop lights or signs. Try to stay left or right of center when you come to a stop. If you are to the right be careful that your left foot doesn't slip on oil dropped in the middle of the lane from cars. Don't know your area....but toll booths if you have any can be extremely slippery when starting or stopping especially when wet.
Remember, the cages, have water on their side windows, and on their mirrors, their visibility is impaired to the side when you are riding next to them....if you can avoid riding next to a cage on a four lane road do it. Either get in front or stay behind his rear bumper, not beside them.
Good luck stay safe.

 

I grew up and lived in Seattle for 45 years. I commuted on my bike on 167, 405 and 5 for 2 years in the 80's. That was before the population explosion and horrible traffic conditions that are present now. I can't imagine riding in the rain there now, especially since it will soon be dark at 4pm. On the other hand, since the Seattle Rain Festival runs from August 1st - July 31st, if you don't ride in the rain, you'll never ride.

 

I would also add
GREAT tires should be a priority

 

Lots of good advice here. On decent clean, pavement and all other things being equal, most riders would run out of lean angle well before they'd run out of traction, just check out some of the professional road racers, who race rain or shine. Add obstructions, cagers, painted road markings, sand, gravel and "road snot" of all types and your traction and lean angle can become less than zero so fast you won't know what hit you.

Street riding in the rain is dangerous and uncomfortable. Life is plenty dangerous and uncomfortable as it is, why go looking for more? If you must play, get a good rain suit, find a vacant parking lot and practice.

 

I can remember plenty of trips to Apple Blossom in the rain.
Over the pass and COLD !

 

I live in Seattle (Puyallup) and have ridden here for most of forty years, My suggestion is to leave the bike parked when it rains. 1st is the cleaning of the road grime and it gets bad. 2nd braking and visibility is reduced for everyone. Getting stuck out riding and it begins to rain happens. Take advantage of the nice weather when you can and stay safe.