Handle the wet on 2 wheels

MOTORING NEWS - The Garden Route has a reputation when it comes to unpredictable weather and motorbike riders should always be prepared to get caught in the rain.

Derek Kirkby, the training director at MasterDrive, says it is imperative that motorbike riders have a quality, yellow rain suit on board at all times. He says if you are warm and dry, you operate the controls more efficiently and in wet weather, a rider wants to be as visible as possible. Here are some handy tips from Kirkby for those rainy days.

Be aware whilst lane splitting that you have less grip and you are riding on the dotted white lines, so take it slower.
Keep in mind that side windows of vehicles are misted up and drivers cannot see their side mirrors.
Treat the visor with anti-fog or have a pin-lock insert on the visor to prevent fogging up.
Try stay in the wheel tracks of vehicles ahead of you as they have distributed some water already.
Use more of the rear brake than the front as traction is limited.
Beware of oil that has mixed with water on the roads.
Avoid puddles as they might be potholes filled with water.
Wear good quality waterproof gloves.
Avoid shiny and smooth surfaces. Surfaces that are slightly slippery on dry days become perilously slippery in the rain. Stay off painted lines, manhole covers and metal plates. If you do find yourself on one of these, avoid hard braking or acceleration.
Loosen up. Clinging to the bars with a death grip will do three bad things:
Tire you out faster;
Exaggerate the effects of any movements you make;
Keep your suspension from working as it should. Remember that a bike is designed to handle small bumps and wiggles, so let it do its job.
Give yourself time and space. Take it easy. Reduce speed and put more space between yourself and the vehicle in front.