Once the wet weather approaches, the average motorcyclist is considering storing their big bikes on the garage lest they encounter adverse situations involving their motorcycle and the slippery, wet road. Since getting into an accident is truly something that no one would ever wish to experience, motor insurance comes to the rescue to make you covered in terms of financial and medical help. That is why having motorbike insurance is as important as a gas; your motorcycle won’t run without gas same as to you cannot have a motorcycle without motorbike insurance.
In addition to the guarantee you can get by having your two wheels insured, here are some of the techniques you can apply in order to enjoy riding your motorcycle in the rain ─ instead of dreading to hit the road during the wet season.
1. Wear comfortable, waterproof gear
To keep safe riding in the rain, one important thing that needs to be assured is a comfort. And by being comfortable, that means gearing yourself up with clothing that can both give you comfort and shield you against the rain at the same time.
Since buying a complete gear ─ from head to toe ─ all at the same moment can eat a big portion on your budget, investing just before the rainy weather starts is recommended. Waterproof gears include a pair of rain gloves, waterproof boots, rain suit, and of course, a helmet with a clear anti-fog face shield.
2. Use body lean to keep the bike upright
While it is true that the bike can lose traction when it’s raining, what some motorcyclists don’t know is that using body lean can help keep the bike in an upright position with more rubber on the ground, thus increases the traction. When leaning off the bike, better do it in a smooth transition in order to not put distress on the chassis of the motorcycle. Another way to keep your bike more upright is by sticking your head, comfortably, in the mirror.
3. Be watchful for extra slippery areas
Given that the road already has brake fluid, oil, and other grime, rain makes the asphalt slick, thus riding your two-wheeled vehicle becomes even more perilous. In this point, being watchful and extra careful for the rainbow of colors caused by the oil or diesel residue is important, as it beckons a slippery spot. If possible, avoid the part which has that rainbow of colors or if not, might as well drive slowly. One more thing to keep in mind is to never stop in the midst of the lane.
4. Cover brakes
When braking, it is important to make sure there’s enough space between you and the vehicle in front and/or behind, as this gives more time in case there’s an emergency braking or swerving needed.
5. Smooth control
In addition to being smooth when using body positioning to maintain the motorcycle in an upright position, this also applies in the brakes. One important thing that you need to take note in order to keep safe riding in the rain, it is to never grab the brake lever sharply, considering that any sudden shock of force will break traction. Easing progressively more force into the braking system allows you to brake hard in the wet, as it keeps the chassis stable under braking for a much quicker stop.
6. Good-condition tires
Before every ride, regardless of the weather condition, it is a must to regularly check your tires to make sure they’re in good condition. Make sure your tires are not worn. If you notice they are starting to get bald or slick, better yet get a tire replacement.
Aside from motorcycle insurance, getting travel insurance is also a must especially if you’re planning to cross the borders of Singapore and continue your riding journey in the neighboring countries such as Malaysia. With this, Autoshield can help you to quote and compare among the providers of the best travel insurance in Singapore! Reach us through our customer care hotline 6385 0777 or by sending SMS to 8588 9191, 8686 9991, 8688 9991, 8588 9991, 8866 9991, 8868 9991, 8668 9991.
