Riding in the Rain

Here in the Willamette Valley, rain is an unavoidable part of motorcycle riding. No matter how nice the day, there’s always a chance (and not even a small one) that a rainstorm will descend before you know it. This can be frustrating, but if you’re going own a motorcycle, it’s a reality you should probably prepare for. As enthusiastic motorcycle riders ourselves, the staff here at Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson® in Eugene understands the potential hazards of riding motorcycles in the rain. We also care deeply about the safety of our customers, which is why we created this short guide to give a few tips on how to prepare for stormy weather and what to do when it arrives. As always, if you need motorcycle parts, service, or safety gear, stop by our shop in Eugene and let our team supply you with everything you need.

Invest in Gear

The foundation of safe and comfortable motorcycle riding starts with the gear you bring. Everything from your clothing and helmet to the way you outfit your bike can make a difference in the rain. If you’re just riding on the weekends, you should invest in some decent riding gear. A one-piece waterproof riding suit is easy to put on and take off and will provide protection from whatever the weather throws your way. You should also get a full-faced helmet, and possibly one with a face mask to combat distracting fog, condensation, and of course. rain. Heavily insulated and waterproof gloves always prove themselves valuable, as does some form of neck protection to shield the gap between your helmet and collar which always seems to get cold the fastest. If you only use your bike occasionally or plan on making a longer tour, make sure to at least keep some waterproof outerwear, gloves, and goggles in your saddlebags.

A windshield makes a huge difference when fighting against the rain. If you need to pass a truck or other large vehicle, a windshield can deflect all of that nasty road spray that can reduce visibility to practically zero. You can also invest in a heated seat and handgrips if you really want to get comfortable in the rain.

Ride Slow and Give Plenty of Room

Whenever you’re riding in the rain, you’ll want to slow down and give more space to complete any action. Don’t try to sneak out ahead of oncoming cars at intersections, and never tailgate other vehicles, no matter how slow they drive. You simply won’t have the traction to accelerate or decelerate in the way you’re used to. It’s best to cut out passing other cars as much as possible, but if you have to, make sure you give yourself much more space than you would normally need for passing. Remember that other vehicles will be able to see you even less than normal, so give plenty of extra room to other vehicles and don’t loiter in their blind spots.

Keep Traction in Mind

When you’re riding in the rain, traction quickly becomes a major concern. Intersections are often greased with a frictionless slurry of motor oil, transmission fluid, and rainwater makes speeding up and slowing down dangerous. Even if you don’t have to stop, you might want slow down when you approach intersections so that if people pull in front of you, you’ll have enough time to properly brake. Coming up to a construction site? Make sure you slow down and if you come across a metal plate covering the road, avoid speeding up, slowing down, or turning, as these plates will offer virtually zero traction in the rain. On the other hand, you can find extra traction by riding on the dry line that forms in the center of lanes on many roads. When asphalt is laid down, it often settles in a “W” pattern, with two valleys where most cars’ tires ride. The middle and the sides offer higher ground where there will be less standing water.

Wait Out the Worst Storms

If a storm comes, don’t be afraid to wait it out. The worst rain often subsides after a few minutes, so try not to get on your bike when it’s raining so hard that visibility is a real problem. This may be annoying, and it may mean you’ll have to occasionally kill some time in a local coffee shop, but it could save you from a scary situation.

Have any more questions about riding in the rain? Don’t hesitate to stop by Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson® in Eugene. We carry the latest from Harley-Davidson®, and we also provide parts, equipment, and services for motorcycles. Stop by today if you live in Salem, Albany, Corvallis, Roseburg, Bend, Coos Bay, or Medford, Oregon.