What to Do When the Weather Gets Rough on Your Motorcycle

When Life Gives You Stormy Weather, What Should a Motorcyclist Do?

Picture this: You're all set for a thrilling ride through the scenic hills of West Virginia, the wind in your hair, and the open road ahead. But wait—what's that looming on the horizon? Dark clouds, heavy rain, maybe even a touch of snow? Just like that, your adventure can turn into a precarious situation. Let’s chat about why it's absolutely essential to know what to do in adverse weather conditions when you're straddling that two-wheeled beauty.

The Most Responsible Choice: Just Postpone

Honestly, when it comes to riding in severe weather, postponing your ride is the smartest thing you could do. Heavy rain, snow, fog, and strong winds wreak havoc on visibility and traction. You ever try to ride a bicycle on a slick surface? Now crank that up a notch, and you’re dealing with a motorcycle that’s a lot less forgiving. When conditions get rough, rider control is easily compromised—and trust me, you don’t want to be the one causing a scene on the road.

But let’s break down why postponing is the right call:

• Increased Visibility: Riding in thick fog or heavy rain? Your visibility is reduced to almost nothing, making it hard to see other vehicles, pedestrians, or even road signs. It’s like trying to watch your favorite show on a fuzzy TV—nothing makes sense!
• Traction Woes: Snow and ice create a whole new layer of issues. Your tires need that grip to stay on the road. Any slip or slide can quickly turn into a catastrophe.

But What About Riding at Normal Speed?

Naturally, you might think, "Hey, I’ve got my skills; I can handle this!" But here’s the thing—your bike's handling changes dramatically in severe weather. That normal speed can suddenly become your worst enemy when the conditions you're riding in go from just a little tricky to downright dangerous.

Fickle Fates: Ignoring the Weather Isn’t Wise

You ever notice how just checking the forecast could save your life? Ignoring weather changes is like deciding to ride a roller coaster without securing your safety harness. You’re setting yourself up for trouble. Just as a sudden storm can roll in, so can unexpected hazards on the road. Stay alert and aware, folks!

Frequent Lane Changes: A Bad Idea

You might also think about constantly switching lanes to dodge raindrops or wind gusts. Well, hang on there! Frequent lane changes can lead to serious accidents in good weather, let alone when Mother Nature is throwing her weight around. Staying in your lane provides stability and predictability—not just for you but for everyone else on the road.

Wrap It Up: Safety First, Always

At the end of the day, the priority is your safety and that of other road users. It’s tempting to hit the road at the first hint of good weather or to test your skills against the elements, but smart motorcyclists know better. By choosing to postpone your ride in severe weather, you’re making the responsible decision that’ll keep you and your bike safe.

So, next time you check the sky and see ominous clouds brewing, ask yourself: "Is this really the right time for a ride?" If in doubt, just hold off until those conditions clear up. Trust me, your bike will thank you for it, and your future self will, too. Stay safe and ride smart!