With the monsoon season knocking on the door, it’s time to prepare for the joy and challenges of riding a two wheeler in wet and unpredictable weather. Riding in the rain is risky if you’re not well geared up or an experienced rider.
But this doesn’t mean you should stow your two wheeler away; with caution and practice, you can ride during rain without much struggle. Here are a few tips for getting yourself and your two-wheeler ready for a better riding experience.
Before the monsoon sets in, it is essential to check on the condition of your bike’s tyres. Ensure the tyres are in good condition, have a good grip, and have enough tread.
A weary tyre will reduce the friction between the tyre and the road, which might force skidding and leading to accidents. Also, make sure to inspect the tyres for minor cracks if any.
Always ride at reduced speeds which is very convenient for you as the risk of the two wheeler skidding is high on wet roads. Since the rain reduces the traction between the road and your bike, riding at a moderate speed is advisable.
Driving at a slower speed allows you to brake properly in and quickly react to unexpected incidents in the surroundings. Never ride your two wheeler aggressively during rain, as it will lead to a crash.
Riding over puddles might bring back nostalgia, but it is very dangerous and can cause accidents. Puddles can conceal potholes of unknown depths, and there is a high chance that you’ll crash and hurt yourself.
Even though your bike/scooter has ABS, braking on wet roads is very dangerous and should be done cautiously. Using brakes correctly is crucial for your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Ensure you have proper control of your bike and the brakes are in good working condition. Change the pads and brake oil at regular intervals. Also, make sure that there is no wear on the discs.
If you are riding without proper monsoon riding gear, invest properly in it as soon as possible. Top of the list would be a waterproof helmet that offers proper protection.
Purchase reliable waterproof jackets with enough levels of protection, riding pants, goggles, and boots specially designed for riding in wet conditions. Also, purchase a strong waterproof bag to safeguard your belongings from rainwater.
Avoid riding through water-logged areas; the depth of the water can be hard to calculate. The engine will get damaged due to excessive waterlogging and can be costly to repair.
Riding through waterlogged areas can make it challenging to see potholes or open manholes. Therefore, it’s advisable to steer clear of such areas to ensure your and your bike’s safety.
In wet conditions, it’s important to maintain enough distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you compared to normal. This allows for a longer braking distance, giving you extra time to slow down, and also prevents you from being affected by the water spray from the rear tires.
Even when it’s cloudy and not actively raining, riding with your headlights on is recommended. The dim lighting conditions during the monsoon can reduce visibility, so having your headlights on increases your visibility to other drivers on the road.
During the rainy season, washing your bike more frequently than usual is advisable. Mud and dirt can get stuck in various parts of your bike, which can cause damage and corrosion over time.
During the rainy season, it’s crucial to give extra care to bike-exposed chains. When you clean your bike, clean the chain and apply lubricant after it has been washed and dried.
As the monsoon season approaches, you must be prepared and safely ride your two-wheeler. Following the guidelines discussed in this article can ensure a secure and enjoyable riding experience during the rainy season. Safety should always be your top priority, so take the necessary precautions on the road.
