Riding in the Rain

[rksaw]

Since we live in the Pacific Northwest, I was just wondering how many out there ride in the rain, and what "tricks" have you learned to help you cope with the rain?

As a person who lives on the coast, I see rain often, and even though I don't necessarily enjoy it, I will ride in the rain (especially to save money on gas) as long as the roads are not icy or there is not "flooding" across the roadway.

I have said it many times, I would rather ride in the rain than in the fog.
Rich

[Netnorske]

Rich,
I can think of a lot of words to describe riding in the rain. "Recreational" would not be among them.

For me personally, I only ride in the rain when I have to. Sometimes a good day can turn sour around here and you find yourself 30 miles from home.

Oviously when on a long road trip...you are going to have to deal with it, but it ain't fun no matter how you slice it!

[rksaw]

I ride in the rain, and I know that it's not fun...I keep my rain gear in the left saddlebag most of the year, because around here you never know. You know the joke, "If you can't see the mountain, it's raining; if you can see the mountain, it's getting ready to rain."

Other than slowing down, I was hoping some would add some techniques that they have practiced and would like to share with the audience.

I would have loved to have joined you on your ride up Mt. Rainier...that would have been a good day! Take care Kris and stay in touch,
Rich

[audiogooroo]

Basically, if you don't ride in the rain, you don't ride. Can't say that I enjoy it, and if rain is in the forecast I usually take the cage to work, but it's bound to happen if you ride enough. Most of the worst rain storms I've ridden through have been while on extended trips. My advice is treat the road like ice for the first 20 minutes or so until all the grease and oil gets washed off. I also carry a full face shield in my trunk so I can see! With good rain gear, staying dry is not a problem, but visibilty sure can be. I find that I can see better with the face shield in place. If it's actually a "frog strangler" , which we get in the summer afternoons here, I'll try to find a place to pull off and let it pass. But usually just plow right through.

[bosko]

I check the forcast too. If there's 80% chance of rain I'll leave the bike at home.

My trick is buying the Nomad. ;) The speedo on my Suzuki does not protect me from the elements very well. :-/

[Idaho]

It rarely rains in Idaho. When it does it is usually short lived and more dust than water.

[rksaw]

Good posts, but Bosco, how does the speedo of the Nomad protect you? Just kidding.
Rich

[schoeney]

Engine guard chaps keep you much drier!

[rksaw]

Amen...I love mine.

[schoeney]

I will avoid riding in the rain whenever possible...which cuts out about 6 months of riding.

On the other hand I am totally waterproof (waterproof boots, jacket, pants, full face helmet) so I may try the 50/50 dyas more. I just don't like cleaning the bike after riding in the rain.

[ringadingh]

The rain doesn't stop me from riding, unless its a heavy downpour when I leave the house, I take the bike. I havn't had my truck at work since April, although thats about to start coming to an end here rather soon.

[rksaw]

Yeah, Riding in the Rain might be one thing, but riding in the snow is entirely different, right Ring?