The wind is whipping your hair, and the sun is shining on your face. It’s just you, your bike, and the road. Except….wait a minute. It’s started pouring. And you’re in no shape to ride in the rain.
With fall right around the corner, inclement weather will be a common occurrence. But don’t let the weather stop you from riding. Here are some tips on how to make sure you and your gear are ready for whatever the day may bring.
Rain Gear
The first step is to invest in waterproof gear. It can be pricey, but you’ll be grateful when you’re dry and warm when it’s pouring outside. Generally, the more expensive a piece is, the longer it will keep you dry.
One-Piece vs. Separates:
Your first decision is to pick between a one-piece motorcycle suit or two separate pieces. A one-piece suit can help prevent any unwanted moisture from getting into your clothing, but it can also significantly affect your range of motion.
What to Look For:
Most waterproof gear is made of nylon with some sort of material to make it waterproof, such as polyurethane.
Look for gear with covered zippers and waterproof sealed seams to prevent any water from getting in.
Make sure your waterproof clothes are easy to put on, loose so they fit over your regular clothes, and most of all, comfortable. Even if it is the most impenetrable gear possible, if it’s uncomfortable, it won’t do you much good.
You want the bottoms of your waterproof gear to have a non-slip seat so you won’t be sliding around when you’re riding. This is important, because water can make staying on your motorcycle hard to do and can lead to dangerous situations.
Last but not least, look for gear with reflective properties so cars can easily see you. This is especially important when it’s cloudy and rainy. You want to stand out from your surroundings.
Do It Yourself
If you’d rather not spring for expensive rain gear, there are several methods you can use to waterproof your gear yourself. These methods are, however, less effective and should not be used for long rides.
1. Spray and Seal
Choose a waterproofing spray and spray nylon, canvas, and leather surfaces. Make sure you are applying the spray evenly. Wait at least a day before using. Finish by using a seam sealer on all your seams.
2. Tin Cloth
Waterproof your clothes by using Beeswax and Boiled linseed oil. Learn how here.
Once your gear is in order, check out our post on tips on riding in the rain before your next ride.
Images courtesy of water filter and Andrew Magill via Flickr