Heavy rain doesn’t have to end the adventure, but it does demand extra skill and the right kit. Below are proven, expert tips for riding a motorcycle in the rain that will help you stay in control, protect your bike and arrive with a smile instead of a slide.
1. Gear Up for Wet-Weather Riding
Wear a Proper Rain Suit
A two-piece, waterproof riding suit keeps the cold out and stops water pooling around your waist. Bright colours or reflective panels add high visibility so other road users spot you sooner.
Think Anti-Fog and Clear Vision
Rain, your breath and cool temperatures can cloud a visor in seconds. Fit an anti-fog insert or use a quality spray before you set off, and crack the visor open a notch at low speed to keep air flowing.
Waterproof Your Extremities
Insulated gloves, over-boots and a neck tube prevent numb fingers or toes that can lead to losing control of the levers.
Need inspiration? Check our guide on how to personalise your BMW without compromising safety for visor upgrades, handle-bar muffs and more.
2. Set Up the Bike Before the Clouds Burst
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Check tyre tread and pressures. Adequate tread channels water away and correct PSI maximises the contact patch on wet roads.
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Lubricate the chain (or shaft drive splines) to resist spray-borne grit.
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Aim headlights slightly lower so glare off rain doesn’t dazzle oncoming traffic.
3. Adjust Your Riding Style
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Wet-Weather Move |
Why It Matters |
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Reduce your speed |
Halves stopping distance and gives tyres time to clear standing water. |
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Increase your following distance |
Three-second gaps on dry roads become at least five in rain. |
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Use gentle throttle and steering inputs |
Abrupt snaps can make the rear tyre lose traction on paint or metal. |
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Ride as upright as possible |
Less lean angle leaves more grip in reserve. |
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Avoid riding through deep puddles |
Hidden potholes can unseat even tall-suspended adventure bikes. |
How to Brake in the Rain on a Motorcycle
Favour smooth, progressive pressure on the front, then add a touch of rear brake to settle the chassis. If you feel the wheels lock, release and re-apply—ABS will likely help, but a good feel is still vital.
When riding in the rain, you should keep two fingers covering the front lever: you react faster and can modulate better than a panic grab.
4. Read the Road Surface Like a Map
Painted lines, drain covers, tram tracks and diesel spills shine up first in drizzle. Cross them upright and without throttle or brake. Remember that the first 15 minutes of light rain lift oil out of tarmac, making roads slicker than during steady downpours.
5. Decide When Not to Ride
Even the best preparation has limits. Torrential rain that obscures vision, flooded crossings or gale-force winds are sound reasons to avoid riding until conditions ease.
6. After-Ride Care
Towel the bike dry, lube the chain and check brake discs for flash rust. A quick once-over now prevents seized calipers and electrical gremlins later.
For added protection, consider a crash guard—learn more in our article on crash guard motorcycle safety.
Quick-Fire FAQs
How to ride a motorcycle during rain?
Slow down, stay smooth on every control and keep your line choices wide and upright.
Is it harder to ride a motorcycle in the rain?
Yes—but with correct tyres, visibility aids and a calm approach, you can still ride safely and confidently.
How to brake in the rain on a motorcycle?
Apply the front brake progressively, add gentle rear brake for stability and lean on ABS if equipped.
When riding in the rain, I should?
Lower your speed, lengthen your following gap, avoid sudden inputs and wear waterproof, high-vis gear.
Ready to Equip Your BMW for Any Weather?
Wunderlich Australia stocks everything from precision-made hand guards to full waterproof riding luggage, so your adventure bike is as ready for monsoons as it is for mountain passes. Swing by our online store—or drop in to chat kit with fellow riders—and turn standard equipment into your BMW.
Explore the full range at Wunderlich Australia. For over 30 years we’ve provided the core parts and accessories that keep you riding, come sun or heavy rain.
Like you, we live to ride—whatever the weather.