Expert Tips For Cycling In The Rain
Take advantage of the monsoon cycling experience through scenic damp trails. While yes, riding through sleek, muddy roads can be difficult, and at times, indoor riding might seem like a better option, it can hinder your training and the hard-earned progress you have made so far.
With the proper preparation and knowledge, you can ride your bicycle in the rain, bask in the cosy atmosphere, and gain confidence in your riding experience. Are you curious about what preparations to make for your memorable monsoon cycling?
Here are some tips for biking in the rain to embrace fun and safety in wet weather:
Expert Tips For Cycling In Monsoon Season
Wear Waterproof Gear For Cycling In The Rain
Cycling in the rain requires spending time in cold and wet weather, so investing in waterproof gear such as jackets, raincoats, or suits is necessary to keep you warm and dry while riding. To successfully embrace this biking in the rain tip, you should start by trying and figuring out different layers and combinations of clothing that best suit your monsoon cycling experience.
Some of the essential waterproof gear to invest in during your preparation for a bike ride in the rain include a rainproof jacket, breathable cycling tights, waterproof cycling shoes, and a cycling cap with a flap that will keep the water away from your face, eyes, and head. You should also invest in a pair of bike-riding sunglasses if you are going for a longer commute.
Bicycle In The Rain With Rainproof Accessories
Biking in the rain, cold, and other harsh conditions is also hard on your bike and its components. This is why it is essential to prepare and take extra care of your bikes, including waterproofing them.
How can you waterproof your cycle in the monsoon? Invest in broader winter tyres, which are usually standard on mountain and fat bikes. These tyres have a good grip on the ground and are better at warding off obstructions that rain throws your way. Investing in bicycle accessories online, such as mudguards and fenders, will also help reduce the accumulation of mud and debris on your bike.
Safety Comes First When Cycling In Wet Weather
When cycling in the rain, it's crucial to prioritise your safety. As a cyclist, it's important to ensure that you are always visible to other riders and vehicles on the road. It's also advisable to maintain a slower pace than usual and be mindful of debris and leaves on the road.
Investing in electric bicycle lights is highly recommended when monsoon cycling in low-light conditions and heavy rain. These lights will give you and other road users visibility for safe travel in the dark and pouring rain.
Another safety gear to invest in is a waterproof cycling helmet that efficiently keeps your head safe during a crash. Consider purchasing the helmet at Geekay Bikes, which ensures the best cycle helmet prices so that you can appropriate protective gear for your rainy-day rides.
Avoid Standing Water Or Slippery Surfaces While Biking In The Rain
Bicycle riding in the rain means coming across standing water puddles, potholes, and slippery surfaces. While our inner child would love to splash those puddles during our riding adventures, it is essential to do the opposite. There is no way to know how deep the puddle or pothole is, which can become a hazard.
Cycling in the rain tip suggests going around the standing water puddle or checking over the shoulders around the lane to ensure you’re driving away from the curb.
Check Your Tyres Before Cycling In Monsoon
Facing a tyre puncture and fixing it on the side of the road is not fun and worse in the rain. Moreover, when the tyres of your bikes are wet, they pick up more mud and dirt than usual. This is why it is essential to check your tyres for flints and debris regularly. Another way for biking in the rain tip is to slightly lower your tyre's pressure as it will help increase the surface area, providing better grip and comfort.
Maintenance After Monsoon Cycling
Cycling in the monsoon is challenging as well. Wet roads lead to mud and grime accumulation, so caring for your bike is important. Regular bicycle maintenance in the rain will help you have a safe and joyful riding experience. A few of the biking in the rain tips for maintenance are:
Wash Your Bike While It’s Still Wet
Mud and grime are easier to rinse and clean off while still wet. Waiting until after your bike has dried off will lead to hardened dirt and grime, which are difficult to remove and can damage the delicate components. A straightforward way to clean your bike is to wash it off with a hose and soft cloth.
Apply Lubrication To Your Bike
Bicycle riding in the rain leads to significant wear and tear on its chain due to heavy downpours. This is also why lubrication is minimal during the monsoon season, causing rust and corrosion. To prevent this from happening to your trusty bike, add a wet lubricant to your chain when it is dry.
FAQs- Cycling In The Rain Tips
Q. How to cycle in the rain with glasses?
A. With glasses on, you can improve your experience with cycling in the monsoon season by using an anti-fog solution and wearing a waterproof cap or cycling helmet to shield you from direct downpours. You should also carry a soft microfiber cloth to remove the residual droplets from your glasses.
Q. What do you need for cycling in wet weather?
A. Cycling in monsoon season requires wearing waterproof clothing such as jackets and cycling caps, covering your bike with rainproof accessories such as mudguards, opting for wider tyres and lubricating your bike for proper maintenance.
Q. Can you go cycling in cold weather?
A. Yes, you can go cycling in cold weather. All you need to do is prepare with appropriate gear and accessories for you and your bike. Some of the essential biking accessories for winter include wearing warm boots and layers of clothing, using mountain bikes, or adding wider tyres for joyful rides.