For bike lovers, their two wheeler is like their soulmate.
Due to this, they usually love traveling long distances, especially during the rains. While enjoying a bike ride in the rain is a great experience, it can turn out to be a risky affair if you are not careful. Moreover, the monsoon season does increase the risk of accidents. You can exercise extreme caution by following the below tips that make your monsoon ride a safe, fun and exhilarating experience.
Check on the health of your bike tyres
Before the monsoon sets in, it is essential to check on the condition of your bike's tyres. Ensure that the tyres are in a good condition, having good grip and enough tread. The two-wheeler tyre tread is designed to ensure that the bike maintains grip on the road and disperses water. With regular wear and tear as the tread decreases, the chances of the bike slipping also increases, further causing accidents or injury, especially during rains. Also, don’t miss out on inspecting the tyres for minor cracks if any.
Do not ride at a great speed during the monsoon
Ride within a speed range of 30-40 km/hr as the risk of the bike skidding is high on wet roads. Due to the rains, the traction between the water and the bike decreases, hence it is best to ride at a normal speed. Driving at a slow speed also ensures that you can apply brakes on time and can match up with the sudden changes in the environment. Avoid aggressive riding as it can take you off the guard and lead to a crash.
Don’t splash water
While passing your bike through puddles may seem exciting, reminding you of your childhood days, it can also take you by surprise, resulting in a bike crash. Riding through a puddle can be unsettling for you as you may not be aware of the depth of the pothole under the puddle and the water can even enter the spark plug, leading to bike damage.
Don’t brake bad
Oil spills, wet roads and wet roads make up for a bad combination, proving to be fatal for your life. Improper braking can prove to be dangerous not only for you, but also for your fellow riders, drivers and pedestrians. Ensure that you have good control of your bike and the brakes are in a good condition.
Keep your monsoon gear ready
In case you are riding without proper monsoon gear, then invest in it as soon as possible. Buy a good pair of waterproof jackets, trousers, sun glasses, and riding boots. Buy a good waterproof helmet as well to keep rainwater away.
Avoid riding through water logged areas
Another safety tip to follow during the monsoon season is to stay away from riding through water logged areas. The engine can get damaged due to water logging and can be quite a hassle to repair. In waterlogged areas, you can even find it difficult to spot potholes or open manholes. Thus, it is best to avoid riding through waterlogged areas to ensure you and your bike both stay safe.
Check for moisture
The moisture of the rainy season can have a great impact on the air filter and other similar parts of your vehicle. If the engine of the vehicle switches off midway or if you feel any resistance when starting off the vehicle then it is best to get various parts checked to clean moist areas and resolve the problem.
Stay insured
Another important monsoon bike tip is to check on the validity of your bike insurance policy. If it is due for renewal, renew it instantly to avoid losing out on coverage. It is important to buy or renew bike insurance on time to continue staying covered in the monsoon and avoid losing out on NCB benefits. You can also choose to purchase add ons such as pillion rider, engine protection, etc to get enhanced coverage. Buying comprehensive cover helps you keep your bike protected against man made and natural calamities.
With the above given monsoon bike tips, you are all set to take on the road even while it is pouring heavily. Don’t forget to wear a helmet and other necessary gears to stay protected. Also, ride safe.
Also Read: Difference between bike warranty and bike insurance
