5 tips to deal with the monsoon during your ride
Let’s be honest, if you are here reading this, then you probably love to ride. And if the thought of packing up your motorcycle during the monsoon sends a shudder down your spine, then we might be able to help you out. If you want to ride in the monsoon, you should follow these five things so that you have an enjoyable and a safe ride.
Ride on known routes
If you are venturing out while it’s raining, it’s better you stick to known routes and let #wanderlust be for another time. Ideally, these are routes you travel on at least once a week. That’s so because you become aware of the obstacles on the road, and in rainy conditions, you give them less attention and reserve the biggest part of your mind for dealing with the wet weather conditions.
Make sure your electricals are in good shape
Electricity and water don’t mix. It’s that simple. A modern motorcycle has loads of electrical wiring, most of which is generally hidden from your eyesight. Water however has a habit of getting in the smallest of nooks and crannies, and if you have exposed wiring under your instrument cluster or your seat, it could lead to a short circuit and a potential fire. A good idea (and not just in the monsoon) is to inspect your wiring once a week.
Lights on!
When you are riding in rain, make sure your lights are on. In wet weather conditions, visibility drops. This is truer with sober colours like grey, blue and black. Vehicles of this colour merge with their surroundings and are harder to spot. That is why it is a great idea to switch on your headlights in rainy conditions, as it sets you apart on the road.
Make sure your tyres are not over-inflated
If you fill air in your tyres at the petrol pump, and you do not pay attention to pressure readings, then there is a high chance that your tyres are over-inflated. 99 percent of petrol pump attendants in India are guilty of this. They over inflate your tyres, which does decrease the drag acting on your motorcycle, but it also reduces grip! And grip is a precious commodity, especially when you are riding in wet conditions.
Wear wet weather riding gear
The best way to protect yourself in the rain is by not getting wet, and the best way to not do that is by wearing wet weather riding gear. If you stay dry, your body doesn’t feel cold and you feel comfortable on the motorcycle. If you get wet, you are bound to end up getting stiff on the motorcycle, which will hamper your ability to manoeuvre it. Brands like Rev’it! and Oxford make some incredible riding gear that will keep you 100 percent dry.
