Riding in the rain
 

Hi again, Well today in Oklahoma we have a 40% chance of t-storms. I really want to go for a ride down at the river walk later but I have never rode a bicycle in the rain. Is it safe to ride in the rain or should I wait until the weather clears up?

Gregg

Yes, it is safe to ride in the rain. Just take it easy and avoid the following:

-- painted lines and other painted markings on the road - they are slippery
-- railway tracks - they are really slippery
-- leaves and muddy areas - they can be slippery
-- puddles - you never know what size hole a puddle might be hiding

Then clean your bicycle when you get in. Wipe it down. Clean off any mud.

Do ride in the rain. There are hazards to be aware of which can be reduced by adjustments to your riding. Surfaces can be more slippery. Go slower around corners. Metal, such as manhole covers, paint, such as arrows and other symbols painted on pavement. Avoid these or if crossing them, straighten up and don't lean the bike. Rain often mixes with oil left by passing vehicles making the road surface very slippery. This is worst when it starts raining after a long period of no rain as constant rain will help wash away accumulated oil. The center of the lane of heavily traveled roads are the worst so avoid these areas or exercise due caution. Brakes take awhile to respond as it takes several wheel rotations for the brake shoes to squeegee off the water. Go slower and brake sooner and easier. Vehicles have poor visibility due to water and smearing on their windshields. Wear hi visibility garments. Use a bright blinking taillight. A blinking white headlight is also helpful.

Personally, if I'm caught out in the rain, once my bike has been wiped and dried, I also apply a fresh coat of lube to the chain as well. If you've got caught in "muck," you may also need to clean it, but a decent rain will actually get rid of all that.

Obviously, you don't want to leave your bike in the rain, but water doesn't do as much harm as you think, as long as you wipe it down. It's high-pressure water from a hose that's misdirected and gets into sealed bearings, etc. that causes problems. Generally, a normal rain won't cause any issues.

I ride regardless of the weather... but then again most of my bikes are set up for all weather use with fenders and lights.

Aaron :)

A couple things to keep in mind: steel rims lose a great deal of braking effectiveness when wet. And fenders make a big difference in dealing with rain -- both for you and for anyone riding behind you.

I enjoy riding in the rain on the MUP. Less traffic to deal with. I won't ride if there are storms in the area though.