Handling Unexpected Weather While Riding Your Motorcycle

Here in Texas, we get plenty of days of warm, sunny weather to enjoy, which is the perfect weather for a motorcycle ride. However, good weather is not always a guarantee, so it’s important to understand how to react when you have to ride your motorbike in bad road conditions. Rain, sleet, ice, and even snow can all surprise you, but if you know in advance what to do, you can navigate inclement weather safely on your motorcycle.

Check the Forecast

If you can avoid riding in bad weather, this is always the better option. Check the forecast for the area you plan to ride in ahead of leaving your house so that you can plan around any bad weather that may be coming. Even just knowing what to expect can help, but it’s a good idea to decide whether you are comfortable riding in whatever is on the forecast, based on your type of motorcycle and your experience level.

Keep Your Bike Maintained

A poorly maintained motorcycle is a bad choice for riding in bad weather. Tires that aren’t in good condition won’t give you the traction you need on wet roads, and this could cause you to slide out or hydroplane. You also need brakes that can activate quickly to bring you to a safe stop on slippery pavement. If you ever need help with maintaining your motorcycle, get in touch with the Desperado Harley-Davidson® service department.

Use Caution

When you’re on the road and the weather is bad, the first thing to do is to turn on your lights to improve your visibility and increase the chance that other motorists see you. Next, slow down your speed to five or ten miles below the posted speed limit for your safety. Signal maneuvers carefully and keep an eye on the road ahead so that you can stop in time if there’s an obstacle.

Ready to shop a wide variety of motorbikes? Stop by our dealership in McAllen, TX, today to take a look at our full selection of new and used motorcycles for sale. Desperado Harley-Davidson® serves our Texas customers in the city of Edinburg.