Cycling in the Rain – Riding and Equipment

Tips for Biking in Wet Weather – Rain Gear and Clothing for Cycling

Jul 24, 2007
Sarah B. Hood

Bike commuter in the rain - dantada, morguefile

For most commuter cyclists and touring cyclists, rain is a fact of life. Here are some tips for riding a bicycle safely and comfortably in rainy weather.

For cyclists, rain comes from all directions: down from the sky, up from the bike wheels, and sideways, both driven by wind and splashed by cars. Therefore, before a commuter cyclist even leaves home, there are steps to take to protect themselves and their clothes from all that water with some of this cycling rain gear.

Wet-Weather Cycling Gear and Clothing

Bicycle wheels spurt a steady stream of water towards a cyclist's ankles (from the front tire) and back (from the rear). Fenders make all the difference. Many bikes for kids and commuters already have metal fenders installed, but sporty bikes generally don’t. Inexpensive, removable plastic fenders that simply clip or screw on are a great investment. Why should a commuter cyclist arrive at work looking like a wet skunk with a stripe of mud up their back and damp underpants if they have the option of spending $15-$25 to arrive dry?
Rainproof cycling clothes made of wonderful, waterproof and breathable fabrics like Gore-Tex are available in specialty shops. Serious, frequent riders will enjoy owning a pair of rain pants. For everyday bike commuters making short trips, a regular lightweight raincoat goes a long way; however, a cyclist will quickly overheat in a normal raincoat on longer or more strenous rides. For surprise showers, it’s handy to carry even the cheapest plastic rain poncho (they can cost as little as $1) in a pocket, purse, backpack or pannier.
Shoes will get wet while cycling, so consider bringing a change of footwear and socks. For heavy rain and long distances, full-footed cycling booties and gaiters (leg covers) are an option, but they can cost a significant amount of money ($25-$75).
Yes, it's possible to ride with an umbrella, but it doesn’t protect the rider from all the water that blows from unexpected directions. Sports glasses or goggles and a helmet with a visor will be of much more use. If it's chilly, a hat or headband under the helmet will help slow loss of body heat.
Tuck a shower cap or plastic bag in with regular gear to cover the bike seat while it's parked in wet weather. It's more pleasant not to have to sit on a damp seat.
While locking, position the lock so that water doesn’t run into the keyhole – especially if the temperature is close to freezing. (These days some locks even have little rotating keyhole covers.) Lube inside the lock from time to time.

Tips for Rding a Bike in the Rain

When brakes become wet, stopping time increases a lot. Ride slower in wet weather, and practice braking when first becoming accustomed to it. Pump the brakes gently while going down hills; this will reduce the bicycle's speed slightly and dry the tires a bit.
Puddles can be surprisingly deep, and can conceal glass and bumpy things, so avoid them. This is just one more reason to ride a bit farther from the curb; about one yard (a metre) is recommended by many bike safety experts.
Wet leaves are treacherous. Try to avoid riding through them, and especially avoid turning sharply on them, to avoid skidding through a messy puddle.
Finally, remember that motor vehicles also have less control and visibility in wet weather, so pay special attention to their behaviour when it rains.

Read on to find out about cycling in winter conditions.