Rainy Day Cycling
The risk of a fall is increased when water covers the road. Wet weather requires
precautions. Cycling is most hazardous when it first begins to rain, because road
oil and dirt mix to form a slippery surface. Wet pavement reduces traction. If the
rain is heavy enough, the front tire may ride on top of the water, a process called
hydroplaning, which causes a loss of braking and steering control.
If you must ride in the rain:
1. Check your tire treads. Worn tire treads may cause a loss of control in wet weather.
2. Ride in the tracks of the motor vehicles in front of you. This can give you a
drier surface
and better traction.
3. Try to avoid surfaces that are especially slippery when wet -- manhole covers,
painted lines
and the oily center of a lane.
4. Some types of brake shoes are better than others when wet; consult your bicycle
dealer.
Caliper brakes, which are now standard equipment on most bicycles, can lose most
of their
braking power in wet weather.
5. Rain reduces the motorist's vision; it is always a good idea to wear brightly
colored clothing
to make you more conspicuous while cycling, but in rainy weather it's especially
important!