Coping With Weather

WEATHER

Whatever the weather is like, you can enjoy motorcycling with the right kit

CHECK THE FORECAST

A quick glance out the window might put you off going for a ride if it’s wet. However, it’s always worth checking the forecast as it can be sunny elsewhere. Conversely, the same check could save you being left stranded in a rainstorm. With lots of weather apps available on your smartphone, there’s no excuse for being caught out come rain or shine.

Choosing the right kit for the weather lets you focus on riding safely and enjoying the trip.

“CHOOSING THE RIGHT KIT FOR THE WEATHER LETS YOU FOCUS ON RIDING SAFELY AND ENJOYING THE TRIP“

NO SUCH THING AS THE WRONG WEATHER

It’s true, there’s no such thing as the wrong weather, just inappropriate kit. Whether you prefer leather or fabric jackets and trousers, it’s always a good idea to pack a rain suit if there’s even the faintest chance of a downpour. A good quality rainsuit can cost from as little as £50, and it makes sense to have one in a fluorescent colour as it will make you more visible in poor riding conditions.

A well-fitted rainsuit, either one- or two-piece, will sit snugly round your collar and cuffs to keep draughts and rain drops out. Make sure it allows full and free movement when worn over your usual riding kit.

PHEW, WHAT A SCORCHER!

Heavy black leathers on a boiling hot day are a recipe for dehydration and discomfort. There are lighter options that will still keep you protected, such as leather jackets and trousers with fabric

WEATHER OR NOT

mesh panels to allow air flow. Others have removable liners to help keep you cool. It’s also worth thinking about light colours that better reflect the sun’s heat.

Lightweight gloves and boots will also help keep you cool in hot weather. However, don’t ever be tempted to ride without protective gear as even the most minor incident could turn into a serious emergency without proper riding kit to protect you.

SUN ON YOUR FACE

Any visor you use on a motorcycle helmet must display a British Kite Mark or meet UNECE Regulation 22.05. A dark visor can have a tint of up to 50%, though this is government guidance and the visor must be marked ‘For daytime use only’ by law. If not, then it’s an illegal visor.

Always carry a spare clear visor in case you’re caught out as daylight fades. Also check each visor for any damage or scratches that might affect your vision or the safety of the visor.

Anti-fog sprays and inserts will keep the visor clear from condensation in cold weather.

RIDING IN THE RAIN...

FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO STAY SAFE.

1. Slow down. Riding more slowly allows for reduced grip and longer stopping distances on wet roads. 2. Leave a big gap. You probably remember “only a fool breaks the two-second rule” from when you learned to drive. Double that time gap between you and the vehicle in front in wet weather. 3. Stay smooth. Accelerate, brake, and change direction gently and progressively. Braking hard could lead to a lock-up and losing control, so be extra smooth in the wet. 4. Relax. If you get nervous and tense, it will be hard to ride smoothly. 5. Be observant. You need to keep your wits about you whatever the weather, but in the rain its doubly important to look well ahead and scan the road for hazards.

6. Watch for slippery

surfaces. You need to be cautious of manhole covers and white lines. You might drive over these in a car without a second thought, but they become slippery in the rain, so try to avoid riding over them. If you can’t avoid them completely, keep the bike as upright as possible and avoid braking.