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Rainy weather may look beautiful, but for motorcyclists it brings added risks on the road. Wet and slippery surfaces make it harder to control a bike and brake safely. Even a moment of carelessness can cause the tyres to skid and lead to a serious accident.
Here are some essential braking tips to stay safe while riding during the monsoon:
Avoid Hard Braking
Braking sharply on a wet road is far more dangerous than on a dry surface. Rain reduces tyre grip, so slamming on the brakes can lock the wheels and cause the motorcycle to skid. Apply the brakes gradually and smoothly instead.
Use Both Brakes Together
Do not rely solely on either the front or rear brake. Use both brakes in a balanced manner for better stopping power. However, be especially gentle with the front brake on wet roads, as applying it too suddenly can lead to a loss of control.
Make Use of Engine Braking
Engine braking is one of the safest ways to reduce speed on slippery roads. Shift down through the gears gradually before applying the brakes. This allows the engine to slow the motorcycle naturally and reduces the risk of wheel lock-up.
Maintain a Greater Following Distance
Increase the distance between your motorcycle and the vehicle ahead. Since stopping distances are longer on wet roads, leaving extra space gives you more time to react and brake safely.
Never Brake While Cornering
Avoid braking while taking a turn. Slow down before entering a corner and maintain a steady speed throughout the turn. Braking on a slippery bend can easily cause the motorcycle to lose balance and crash.
Avoid Slippery Road Markings
Painted lane markings, zebra crossings and metal manhole covers become extremely slippery when wet. Whenever possible, apply the brakes on the regular asphalt surface rather than on these painted or metallic sections.
Check Tyres and Tyre Pressure
Good braking performance depends heavily on tyre grip. During the rainy season, slightly lower tyre pressure—within the manufacturer’s recommended range—can improve traction. Also inspect the tyre tread regularly. If the tread is badly worn or the tyre has become smooth, avoid riding in the rain until it is replaced.
Ride Smart
On rainy roads, control is far more important than speed. Follow proper braking techniques, ride calmly at a moderate pace and always prioritise your safety and that of other road users.