QUOTE:

Seeing and being seen are bigger concerns than traction.<br /><br />Riding in the rain safely is a matter of dressing properly, understanding traction, making sure you can see, and making that you are seen. From the April 1998 issue of Motorcycle Cruiser magazine. By Art Friedman<br /><br />Though I don&#039;t like cleaning the bike afterwards, I do enjoy riding in the rain. Some riders, especially here in California where rain is rare, respond to this statement with the sort of reception usually reserved for an announcement that aliens recently abducted the speaker.

After all, why would anyone want to ride a motorcycle when the roads are slippery, it&#039;s hard to see and you are getting wet?

&quot;Because,&quot; replied Tom dryly, &quot;I&#039;m not getting wet.&quot; (Anybody else remember the &quot;Tom Swifty&quot; genre of puns?). I can also see better on a motorcycle than from within a car, and the various advantages of a motorcycle in traffic (superior view of the road, maneuverability, more escape routes, etc.) can pay extra dividends (if you are ready to exploit them) when the roads are wet and drivers are in over their heads.

Rain, Rain, Stay Away

The key element in being able to enjoy a day riding in the rain is good rain gear. These days virtually all rainsuits from reputable motorcycle-accessory firms will keep you dry in a torrent. The factors that set some apart are ease of entry, conspicuous colors, and comfort. I have a Gore-Tex two-piece suit from . . .