Conquer the Rain: Biking Tips for Rainy Days

Rain is inevitable, but that doesn’t mean you should stay inside and miss your ride.

What do you do when it rains while you are bike camping? The right tips and steps can help you stay safe while still enjoying a great ride, even in the rain. These 6 tips will help you stay safe and sound, no matter what the weather is like.

This is ultimately dependent on the bike you ride – gravel bikes have different rain dynamics than roads bikes, while mountain bikes and fatbikes are completely different.

Tip #1: Slow down!

You can slow down when you cycle in the rain, just like driving. You can see potential hazards and avoid injury by slowing down. You can lose traction on slippery roads and terrain if you are in a wet area. Heavy rain can also obscure obstacles.

It will be a blessing to slow down when you reach a stop or crossroads. Bike tires can be quite useful when moving on wet surfaces, but they will not work well if you need to stop quickly. You should allow extra time to bump the brakes more and bring your bike to a slower halt.

You can identify bigger puddles, potholes and obstacles by slowing down, even a little.

Tip #2: Choose the right gear

It can be helpful to have the right gear if you plan to venture out in the rain or other wet weather conditions. You can increase your safety and comfort while riding.

Shoes covers

Your shoes will get wet while riding a bike. It will soon seep in and you’ll have wet socks and feet. This can make it uncomfortable and cold.

You can also opt for waterproof shoes. They will not only keep water out but will also keep your feet warm. If it is particularly cold outside, you might also consider waterproof socks.

Waterproof Clothes

To make your cycling more enjoyable, you have many options for waterproof clothing. When designed properly, waterproof running or cycling jackets will keep you dry and protect from the rain, no matter how hard you go or how long your trip is. Waterproof tights are also possible. The good news? Most cycling shorts are already made in a way that will not get saturated with water. Your feet, torso and head are all important.

Waterproof gloves are a must-have for cyclists. It can be difficult to concentrate on cold hands, and they will become slippery from all the water. Waterproof gloves can help you keep your hands on the handlebars and not think too much about it.

You also want to keep your head clean. While a helmet can do some of the work, it can also make things more difficult if water gets in. You can add a cycling cap, especially one that is waterproof, to your trip. They are worn under your helmet.

Glasses

Now that you have taken the water off your body, it is time to consider keeping that water from your eyes. You must have cycling glasses. These glasses will protect your eyes from rain or other severe weather conditions and keep dirt, mud and dust out.

Lights

If you are going on early morning or late evening rides, you probably already have your lights. But what about rainy days? In the rain, it’s a good idea for cyclists to have their headlights on. Low light, dark clouds and heavy rain make it hard for you to see and for other cyclists and drivers to see you if you are on the road. To make you more visible to others, attach small LED lights to your rear and front.

Mudguards

If you don’t already have them, mudguards can be a great addition to your bike. Even if the rain stops, roads and trails are still full of water and mud. You will see the dirt and water build up as you ride. A mudflap, or mudguard, can help keep water off your legs, back, and feet in wet weather.

Tip 3: Select the right bike and tires

It is important to know that a road bike can be used in the rain, while a mountain bike can be used in the rain. It all comes down to the tires. Road bike tires tend to be more slick, so you need to use higher pressure to keep them in contact with the road. This allows for better grip even in wet conditions.

You’re correct, even though they seem to have no tread, those narrow road bike tires do quite well on wet roads. The tire ’s “pointiness” ensures you have more contact with the ground and the high pressure of tire has a way to push water out of your way. Wet, painted, or wooden surfaces are extremely dangerous and should be avoided or walked very slowly.

If your mountain bike tires aren’t slick enough, you might consider a different type. You can avoid flats by using tubeless tires or tires with puncture belts, even if you run into a pothole or other debris.

You want to avoid hydroplane on your bike. As long as your PSI is high, you will be able maintain contact with pavement and avoid hydroplane.

Even with the best tires, heavy downpours can make it difficult to drive on your chosen tire. Even if your tires are perfect, slow down!

Tip #4: Make sure your bike is ready

Your bike can be damaged by too much rain. To ensure your bike can handle wet weather, you will need to have a few things.

Lube

There are many types and styles of bike lubes . When it comes to rain, wet lube works better than dry. It will keep your pedaling fluid and your chain water-resistant. You can also protect your chain by salting the roads in winter.

Water-resistant Grease

Do you grease your key bearings, from the headset to their hubs? Grease, particularly water-resistant, can help to keep out rain and dirt.

A Fix a Flat Kit

You can still get a flat even if you follow the above-mentioned precautions when it comes to your tires. You should always have the tools you need to quickly get on the road again.

You should also take care of it after the ride!

Preparing your bike for a rainy ride is not enough. You also need to take care of it after you leave it there for the night. Before applying bike oil, your bike must be cleaned and dried. This is also a good time to check that your bike has not suffered any damage.

Tip #5 - Keep an eye out for moving water

You should be aware of moving water, just like when driving. Avoid entering it, especially if it is difficult to see the trail or road underneath. Flood waters can make currents extremely strong and you could be knocked over by them. Avoid crossing any flood-prone areas.

It’s okay to get off your bike and walk around the hazard. You may be glad you did. If the temperatures are below freezing, the moving water could cause ice patches. If you’re lucky, you can even coast over ice, but that is not something to do.

Tip #6 - Know when to turn back

You can have a lot of fun riding in the rain, or just want to finish your session. However, it doesn’t mean you should push through the worst conditions. You can avoid serious weather conditions like flooding or severe thunderstorms by checking the forecast before you set out.

If you are caught outside and the weather changes, get back inside or shelter immediately. You need to know your limits and the dangers of being outside during inclement weather.

It’s okay to call it and head indoors for a spin-and-sweat. It’s something we do all the time.

Rain does not necessarily mean that you should stop your cycle, or even skip it altogether. You must be prepared for anything. You need to have the right gear for your bike and know how to keep safe around water, potholes and floods. These tips will help keep you safe, no matter what the weather is like.