Riding a bike can be one of the most entertaining things you can do. If you’re a bike enthusiast, you are probably aware of the fun and convenience a bike can bring to you. You can not only whiz past the peak-hour traffic and reach your destination quickly, but also reduce your fuel expenses significantly by opting for a bike for your daily travel. The government has made motor insurance mandatory while driving on Indian roads.
However, with monsoon gripping the country, the chances are that rain could come at any time and you may encounter wet and slippery roads. Riding a bike in such conditions can be extremely challenging. Buy bike insurance as it will secure you from any financial losses that occur due to road accidents.
Tips to maintain bike
Here are a few bike riding tips for the rainy season to make this a little easier:
- Check the condition of your bike’s tyres
During the rainy season, the roads become wet and slippery. Hence, it’s very important for every bike rider to get a firm grip on the road and the tyres of his/her bike help him/her with that. Therefore, the tyres of your bike need to be in very good condition before you take your vehicle out during the rainy season.
Inspect your tyres properly for wear and tear. If you think they are not in a proper condition, it’s better to replace them than take a risk. Check the tyre treads. It’s essential to have adequate tread depth as it helps in dispersing water and ensures a firm grip on wet roads.
- Wrap yourself in waterproof gear
Before you begin a ride on your bike during monsoon, it’s crucial to wrap yourself in waterproof riding gear. Get a strong pair of waterproof riding boots, a raincoat or waterproof jacket, rainproof pants, a pair of gloves and of course, a sturdy ISI-marked helmet. Make sure there is no way for the water to enter and get you wet while you’re riding your bike.
Besides offering you a comfortable ride, this will also ensure your good health. However, make sure your gear isn’t too tight. You should be able to feel comfortable in it, and it should not restrict your movement while you are riding.
- Ensure maximum visibility
Rains can hamper visibility to a large extent while you are riding your bike. Hence, you should take extra precautions during this season. Avoid using dark or tinted glasses while riding during the rainy season. Also, make sure the visor of your helmet is clear and scratch-free to ensure maximum visibility.
If your visor seems to be damaged, it’s better to replace it before the monsoon sets in. Also, keep your headlights on all the time to make sure you can clearly see the road. If you are still experiencing hampered visibility, you can take a halt and wait till the weather clears a bit.
The last thing you would want is getting stuck in the middle of the road amidst rains and thunderbolts. It can be a horrifying experience. Hence, it’s prudent to get your bike serviced before the rainy season to ensure that it doesn’t break down in the middle of a journey.
Also, you must follow proper bike maintenance tips to make sure your bike is in a smooth condition. For example, change its engine oil, oil filters and air filters. Make sure that all the tyres are properly inflated and all the lights are working.
Riding at high speeds is never recommended. During the rainy season, it becomes even more dangerous as the roads become wet and slippery. Therefore, always make sure to ride your bike within the permissible speed limit. If it starts to pour, slow down even further to prevent any chances of an accident.
Take extra precautions while making turns and slowing down at signals. Do not try to make any sudden movements on the bike. Also, never try any stunts when the roads are wet. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Accelerate or decelerate slowly
While riding in the rain, it’s very important to accelerate or decelerate very slowly. Do not try to open your throttle at once or apply hard brakes. This could lead to misbalancing of your bike on slippery roads. Use your accelerator and brakes gently. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles moving on road so that you don’t have to apply sudden brakes.
Also, it’s important to follow the right technique for braking during wet conditions. It’s best to use both rear and front brakes in tandem to make sure no tyre is overwhelmed by friction and causes imbalance.
Splashing through the puddles can seem funny and entertaining, but it isn’t. If the puddle or pothole is deeper than you expect, you might lose control of your bike and fall. Moreover, sudden splashes of water may not be pleasant for a person walking by the side of the road or another bike rider beside you.
Apply anti-rust spray or grease on exposed metal parts to create a protective barrier. It helps prolong the life of components during wet weather.
- Avoid parking under trees or in waterlogged areas
Trees can drip sap and attract birds, while stagnant water can damage tyres and engine parts. Always find elevated and sheltered parking spots.
- Renew or upgrade your two-wheeler insurance
The rainy season increases the risk of accidents and mechanical issues. Opt for two wheeler insurance online with comprehensive coverage or a basic and legally mandated third party insurance to stay financially protected.
How to drive safe during heavy rains
Driving in the rain requires care and caution. Here’s how you can stay safe:
- Slow down and maintain a safe distance
Wet roads are slippery. Reduce speed and keep a longer distance from other vehicles to give yourself more time to react.
- Avoid sudden braking or acceleration
Abrupt moves can cause skidding. Use gradual braking and smooth acceleration to maintain control over your bike.
- Use dipped headlights and working indicators
Visibility is often compromised in heavy rain. Keep your lights on low beam and use indicators in a timely manner to alert other drivers.
Deep water can hide potholes and damage your engine or electrical system. Take alternative routes whenever possible.
- Wear reflective rain gear and a good-quality helmet
Invest in waterproof riding gear and a helmet with an anti-fog visor for improved safety and comfort during rides.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it necessary to buy two wheeler insurance online before the monsoon?
Yes. Monsoon increases the risk of accidents and damage. Buying two wheeler insurance online is a quick and efficient way to ensure you are covered before the season begins.
- What is the difference between comprehensive and third party insurance?
Third party insurance covers damage to others' vehicles or property, and is mandatory by law. Comprehensive insurance covers both third-party and own-damage expenses, ideal for rainy season protection.
- How can I prevent my bike from rusting during the rainy season?
Regular cleaning, drying, using anti-rust spray and storing the bike in a dry area are key ways to prevent rust.
- Can I ride through waterlogged areas with a bike?
It is best to avoid them. Water can enter the engine or exhaust and lead to stalling or long-term damage.
- How often should I get my bike serviced during monsoon?
It is ideal to service your bike at the beginning of the season and once more mid-season, depending on usage.
Conclusion
These tips for riding a bike in the rain can help you ensure pleasant and safe rides during the rainy season. To keep yourself and your bike financially protected against road accidents and other unforeseen mishaps, you can get a comprehensive bike insurance policy from ICICI Lombard. To know more about our bike insurance plans and their features.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.