Riding a motorcycle can be one of the most freeing and exhilarating experiences in the world.

However, this thrilling experience does come with a few warnings.

One of these is the fact that by its very nature, there is always an element of danger.

While speeding remains the leading cause of accidents on the road today, there’s something to be said about the fast-and-furious storms in East-Central Texas that can quickly overtake your group while out on a Sunday ride (as it did on our last ride in May heading to Waco)

Now as long as you keep your head about you and follow a few basic guidelines, riding in poor weather shouldn’t be a cause for concern.

Here are a few useful tips to do just that.

Make yourself visible

Many motorcycle crashes happen when car drivers fail to spot them. This is because cars have huge blind spots. In the rain, these blind spots will increase and it can be very easy for a fellow driver to completely fail to notice you.

As such, always ride the motorcycle in those areas where people around you can spot you easily. Wear bright clothing with reflective strips on them and use the indicators to make yourself as noticeable as possible.

Slow down and keep a safe distance

This is a big mistake that many inexperienced riders make. What would normally be considered an okay speed in good weather can actually be too fast especially when the road is wet. This is because the braking distance will increase. Poor visibility will also mean that your reaction time will be slower.

Furthermore, it is a lot easier to lock the brakes and lose control of the motorcycle in such conditions. It is for the same reason that you should maintain a healthy distance from the vehicle in front of you. Keeping all this in mind, it is a good idea to slow down to a point where you know that you can stop safely and confidently in the distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you.

In my 25 years in Del Valle, TX, I’ve ridden through just about every form of weather possible. Here’s a great article on 5 of the most dangerous for driving from a towing company in Dallas

Sean Dutton

Don’t be too enthusiastic around corners

There is something about motorcycles and corners that makes riders want to put their knees down and go as fast they can around them. However, this is highly unadvisable under poor weather conditions.

The tires and brakes won’t be performing as they normally would. This makes it a lot easier to lose control of the bike and suffer a dangerous crash especially if there is oncoming traffic.

Stop and wait it out if you can

If the weather is really appalling, the best thing you can do is pull over and wait it out patiently. This is not the time for bravery.

Even if you are extremely careful, chances are high that those around you could make a mistake and you can end up getting caught up in someone else’s crash. Also, make sure to pull over safely and choose a spot that is far away from the road.

Do not panic

If you do choose to keep riding then make sure that you do not panic if there is an emergency. If you do, you could end up braking too hard or not hard enough.

Your decision-making capabilities could be hindered which can be fatal.

Usually, there are a lot of unknowns in play when the weather is bad and you need a clear and calm head to deal with whatever situation you might be presented with.

Have faith in yourself and your abilities, and most of all HAVE FUN!

Cheers!