If its a light drizzle, I just ride through it. However, if its looking like a heavy, steady frog-strangler and I have more than 15 minutes left in my commute, I pull over and put on rain gear. I know you asked for no jacket recommendations, but I have to say that my rain cape is a completely different experience from a jacket. I started wearing rain gear regularly when I saw how well it works. I stay dry and there is a nice billowing breeze that comes under the cape to keep me from experiencing the sauna effect. If its really coming down, I will also put on my rain booties.