Do you need to garage your motorcycle every time the weather forecast predicts a rain shower? Are motorcycles vulnerable to being exposed to rain?
Rain doesn’t affect motorcycles. If it rains, you can ride and leave your motorcycle parked without any problem. However, it’s best to cover it for an extended period.
Will it hurt my motorcycle to get rained on?
If your motorcycle is relatively modern, it has been designed with an electrical circuit that will withstand rain. You can ride your motorcycle happily in the rain and leave it for short periods in a shower.
Regardless of your motorcycle’s age, water can enter the electrical system. That’s what water does! However, leaving your motorcycle in a torrential wind-driven downpour is tempting fate.
Once the water has entered the wiring on your motorcycle, the problems will start. First, you will not start your motorcycle and identifying the problem area will be difficult.
In years gone by, we have all witnessed the motorcycle stranded on the side of the road in a rainstorm. Invariably the HT leads were soaked, and the spark was tracking everywhere except the spark plug.
Motorcycles no longer have this problem with more excellent protection from water ingress.
If you are caught in a downpour, it’s advisable to pull over for safety reasons, and it will prevent a breakdown caused by water.
Is it OK to leave a motorcycle outside?
Yes, modern motorcycles are manufactured to withstand more prominent or significant elements, and rain will not harm them.
If you leave your motorcycle outside for a prolonged period, purchase a suitable cover. The cover will protect the motorcycle from rain showers and UV rays damaging the paintwork and light lens surfaces.
If you have a garage, use it. Your motorcycle is a long term investment, so look after it. Motorcycles are different from cars as most car drivers leave their cars to the elements because there is no other choice.
What do motorcyclists do when it rains?
Slow down and increase the gap between the motorcycle and the vehicle in front of you. Rainwater has a big difference in stopping distances.
If the motorcycle does not have daylight running lights, switch your lights on and increase your visibility.
Accelerate and brake smoothly to avoid the possibility of skidding.
If it’s the first rainfall in weeks, the road surface will be incredibly slick from rubber and oil on the surface. Greater care than usual is needed in these conditions.
A rider can look to the side to clear the rain droplets from the visor if necessary.