BRAKING TIPS ON WET SURFACE FOR MOTORBIKE RIDERS

For any motorbike driver, it is especially important to pay extra attention when driving during or after the rain, on a wet, slippery surface.

To avoid falling, drivers need to understand braking techniques on the wet. Not many drivers are aware that wet surface may need a different approach when braking to stay upright. Here are some tips to help you maintain your balance.

First and foremost is to lower your usual speed when driving in the rain.  Secondly, avoid hard braking that would lock your tires, cause them to slip, and you to fall.

When braking, don’t forget to release your gas handle to reduce throttle. It is also advisable to do a four-finger braking to allow for full travel of the lever until your motorbike arrives at a perfect stop.

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The other technique is to use the engine brake, and this especially applies to manual transmission or underbone motorbikes, to slow your speed. To do this, shift the clutch to the lower gear to cut down the source of power and gradually halting the motion of your bike.

In every braking, try to combine front and rear-end braking simultaneously, but progressively. Avoid pulling either of the brake too hard, as it may cause either end to slip and the motorbike to skid. This is usually because riders have a habit of positioning two fingers on the brake lever, but there is a risk that your reflex may cause you to pull on the lever – causing hard braking and crashing.

Finally, avoid braking when your tires are not aligned or when turning to avoid slip tires and falling.

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