Dont laugh but i watched your vid and i rode my bike in horrendous rain and windy conditions to work yesterday and i began narrating to myself about how to ride in the wet information i picked up from your vid and i realy had fun riding , and safely the biggest help was to relax this made the bike so much more responsive and even when i could feel the rear tyre sliding at times on the white lines i just rode through it reduced my spead and didnt panic ensureing i was in control of the situation
I’ve been riding more than 22 years and never had an incident in the wet, so I must be doing something good :-). Saying that though, I did find your film very good. Seeing someone else ride and talking through how they are riding is very nice and informative. I does make me look differently at how I ride ( I even talk to myself now when I ride). No matter how long we’ve been riding motorbikes and how good we think we are, we will always learn something new or be reminded of something we may have forgotten. As they say, you’re never too old to learn. BIG thumbs up to you :-)
For every one person I didn't help, there's maybe 1000+ I did help. You must be an amazing rider to already have known all this info so congratulations on that. I recommend you produce a video and let me know when you've uploaded it so I can link to it for my subscribers to watch. I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks again.
I live in East Texas. Whenever it rains, it is a common comment that "People forget how to drive when it rains". I believe the truth is that those people don't know how to drive in the first place and the rain removes the "stupid" cushion from the road making the lack of skill more evident (your observation of the car following the bike too closely for example). Growing up in Norther Maine, driving and learning to drive in snow and ice, I support your comment that drastic changes, in speed or direction, is what causes problems in inclement weather/road conditions. Knowing this, you can adjust your ride accordingly, but a healthy dose of skepticism regarding the others on the road is not a bad thing.
The first thing I learned about biking was: "drive like everybody tries to kill you." This made me very aware of everything around me, simply because I know the consequences if someone did run into me. Watching this just made me feel like I should take a look at not only the other vehicles, lines and road condition, but also on the road-surface (old/new asphalt).
I dont know where you're from but in england on our country roads are so bad even in my car I can feel my front wheels constantly skipping about. they try and fill the pot holes up but the problem is only 40% gone.
I've been riding for as long as I can remember in most weather conditions. However at nearly 70 years of age I'm not as confident in the wet as I was. Watching your video confirms I'm doing most thing's right just the odd thing on road surfaces I sometimes over compensate for. Super video, thank you. Ride safe and ride well. 🤓
I can sympathise, when i lived in Yorkshire i rode to work 365 days a year, snow is a visible threat, but the worst is black ice...trick is if the surface doesn't look shiny wet but like a matt finish...black ice... Now at 71 I'm lucky to have lived in Southern Spain the last 37 years and ridden in the wet twice...so I'm pathetic on wet roads...But the last time I road 500kms in biblical rain so stuck to the motorways at 90mph, the only hazard was metal expansion joints on bridges. My Ducati on Bridgestone S22 tyres was epic.
Thanks for your help, I find your videos informative and encouraging; I'm taking my Module 2 in a week's time (2nd attempt), the day after my 63rd birthday. Learning on a Honda 600cc has been a bit of a journey, both mentally and physically - in fact, the hardest thing I've ever done - but I won't give up. It's also making me a better car driver, more aware of riders, and I'm conscious that there will still be a lot more to learn once I've passed the test, so I intend to have further tuition with an Advanced Driving instructor. Anyway, wish me luck! Liz (Bristol, UK)
Very helpful thanks Roadcraft, i came off my first week riding in wet weather as tried to brake too harshly, After that i was very nervous in rain and came off again in a corner. yesterday it was heavy rain and i spotted exactly what you said i was tense shoulders up teeth clenched and very shakey, i remeberd your advice and manged to relax myself a bit. what a diffrance! im still not 100% conifdant but i did mange to keep control and avoid the same two mistakes i made previously I did get a bit of a skid approaching some lights as i was a bit harsh with the front brake, Thankfully again i recalled your brake use advice and eased up on the front and slightly eased the back brake on, avoiding coming off. So thank you for the vid saved me a fall!
Your vids are the reason I I am able to watch my daughter Graduate from College. You have taught me how to survive on a motorcycle. This is a good example.. I live in Central Florida, US. We only have a couple days a year with cold freezing weather so there is not much time to learn on my own, so I rely on your voice in my head to get me home at night on those nights that we do. My daughter and, I think, my Wife Thank You. We All Wish You and Your Family a Happy Prosperous New year. And I Thank You for all the lessons learned. Ps. been missing you.
Hi, Just came back from a ride, got caught in heavy rain. Hadn't ridden in rain for about a year. I was a bit twitchy at first but kept my throttle smooth and used both brakes gently and it was not fun, but not as horrible as I got more used to it. I'm actually glad it happened as it did sharpen my rain riding up a bit Great vid, you are an excellent rider/instructor
Nice to see a MC video from a guy with no hormone challenged behaviour for once. I learned a thing or two from your video. Nice work. Had an minor "incident" the other day. Wet road and a sudden hard break from the car in front of me. I reacted by instinct (The wrong instinct sadly) and broke hard instead of trying to pass her by. I skidded 10 yards before I toppled. Damn! New heavier bike and a misjudgment of the bike's braking ability. She was very sorry for the sudden stop, but I was responsible for keeping the proper distance not her. An ABS might have saved the day. Luckily my footrest and the leather saddlebag saved the bike from big scratches. I got a few of those myself. But the important thing was that the bike didn't :-)
After three years riding - I finally got stuck in the rain the other day. I applied the same techniques you explained in this video - and survived the ride home. Thanks very much for putting this up!
Thank you for making me smile regarding the "I have to fail you" comment, you're not my examiner. If you think that overtake was "absolutely crazy" I would recommend you never drive or ride a vehicle anywhere as that manoevre fulfilled all the criteria for an overtake 1/ never cause the overtaken vehicle to alter speed or direction 2/ Avoid making three vehicles abreast and 3/ the road was plenty wide enough not to have to use the opposite carriageway.
im taking my license in 2 days and it might be raining alittle the day i take my license. I have never been riding in the rain before even though i have been practise riding about 2000kms(1250miles ). im alittle nervous because of the rain but not scared. videos like these makes me more confident riding in "bad" road conditions. thanks for the video :D wish me good luck
+Twinzh UPDATE: got my license without complaints by the sensor. i now wrecked my bike because of oil in a turn. got only a few scratches nothing serious.
thanks, yeah it was a new experience to say atleast xD i'm going to get a new bike now, a supermotard instead of a sports bike. mostly because i dont need a sportsbike because its only a 125cc.
This guy seems a perfect example that there are none so deaf as those who won’t hear. I learned to ride via DAS and tbh was horrified at how easy the test was. It was not till I did advanced training that I really learned how to ride. Your videos help do the same thing - covering the really important stuff of riding. Good on you for taking the time to do them. Whilst this poor soul looks doomed to learn the hard way, you are a a fantastic resource for those ready to learn. Thank you!
Good video. I just past my CBT last week, and got a new Ktm Duke 125. It's Christmas day now and it's raining, so I'm a little nervous as I've never been out in the rain on a bike. This will be my first time on my bike and my second time altogether counting the day I did the CBT. So just watching a few videos for tips before I set off. Thanks for the info, and Merry Christmas.
I came home yesterday from epic day ride going from 30c temps thru to cooler driving rain conditions on last leg. This is in NZ. I haven't done any wet riding for years but I tried to do what I have seen in this type of video and mainly to slow to conditions, keep good following distance and relaxing on the bike. I think tensing and reactive riding puts one at more risk. Learning to relax whilst riding to conditions AND within ability are real keys for me. Got home from heat, steep and winding roads, gravel surface, blustery winds then cooler driving rain and low visibility conditions. Typical NZ experience!
Very useful video, went out the other day and it started to rain just felt as if I lost all my confidence I was so tense, making mistakes at junctions, just glad to get home, I know it's going to rain today at sometime so think I'll go and practice. Thanks for advice.
We've all been there...scary shit when it happens on the M5 and surrounded by lorries. Actually enjoy it now just need a quality waterproof one piece and i won't have any excuses ;-)
Brian Capewell I got caught first time today coming out of Eastern Distributor toward Rockdale. Shit myself completely. Was putting along in panic mode!
It was raining when I was watching this video. I could not resist and I had to go for my first wet ride. I took my 90º turns at 15 kmh and outside town with national limit I could only go 60 kmh instead of 80. On top of everything I could not see a damn thing. Water on my visor, water and fog on my glasses. It is necessary to practise in the rain as it can catch you anytime. It really helps your throttle control. Thanks for this video mate.
Watching your vids is so relaxing, you ride very smoothly, of course you get a bit of fun, but always safely. Seeing some of the other youtube riders, it looks almost suicidal to ride a bike. Seeing yours makes it look natural and even "safe" (i know, i know, its a motorcycle, it will never be as safe as a car). Youre actually teaching me! LOL. Greetings from Spain.
You are quite a calm and safe driver. I really enjoy watching you driving through traffic and letting room for mistakes, thats is extremely important. You could show that "pympster" guy a thing or 20.
I have been riding for 38 years and my son is about to get his Bike Learners, but because I can't hop on the back and teach him as we go along I have bookmarked this video so he can watch it several times. Thank you for a well made lesson 'on' the bike.
Excellent instruction. I have ridden for many years and pretty much ride exactly the same as you. I always find riding a bike over a journey is far more fatiguing than driving a car over the same route as you have to ride/drive for everyone else on the road. My brother passed his advanced M/C test and he told me the techniques they use and I have to say that if you rode like they do, you would be arrested for dangerous driving - OK in a police chase, but not normal riding. Brilliant video, keep it up!
I commented about a year ago to this vid. I'd gotten back to bikes after 34 years away & at the age of 55. Just thought I'd pop back in to let you know that a year later I have 10,500 or so miles on the bike I bought brand new. Being in Texas I've sold my cage and the bike is my transportation. The wife still has her cage, but I ride. I've enjoyed your other vids, and have recommended this one to people who ask me about riding in the rain. Ride well, ride long.
That guy may never graduate to grown up bikes, sadly. It's a no-brainer that tuition is at its best when the tutor explains and demonstrates his subject methodically. I regularly view your videos as I find your explanations rub off and I pre-recognise situations on the road when I encounter them for the first time. That's the value of a good teacher.
Wet riding is my nemesis. For some reason I always tense up on corners - always afraid the tyres will let go. Normally each autumn as the weather deteriorates I practice keeping relaxed etc, and usually get on quite well. Then inevitably I hit a bit of diesel, leaves or rabbit blood and one of the wheel will twitch and I tense up and I'm back at square one.
I haven't rode a Bike in years and am now in the process of purchasing another one .This is a simply brilliant tutorial for refreshing the reflexes after years of being car and truck limited .Thank you so much for the refresher ..I really found it informative .
Good vid but......do not constantly ride in the center of the lane. Most vehicles leak oil. On dips it collects heavily .Oil drips off vehicles when braking causing more center of lane hazard. I also ride like I am invisible.
My local council has a department which calculates the placement of manhole covers to be placed in exactly the same place as a motorcycle at maximum lean.
Thanks. I sometimes need to keep reminding myself, as I do this for a living that it's normal to me, it isn't to most people. Glad I can help. Welcome back.
I hate the sunken manhole covers, I may aswell be kicked in the balls by mike Tyson it's that painful (sports biker rider btw), plus I hit a pothole and my handle bars wobbled badly but luckily I didn't come off.
funnyfailer99 Speak of the Devil.... 2 days ago I hit a pothole and I'm not quite sure wtf I was doing but I came down and OMG my balls slammed across the tank so hard I had to pull over and sit down.
funnyfailer99 roflmao you guys are funny! thank god us girls don't have this problem ey :P lollll im soooo going to tease my hubby on this! he never told me it hurts his balls sometimes! i never knew this! haha
Im a new rider from the USA and this was a really nice video because we didnt go over wet riding conditions at motorcycle school. It was a two day course that taught the foundations of riding. If you're from the UK, you already know its worth following cause you guys know rain all too well :). Great video. I ride a Kymco 250 Venox cruiser
Really a great, informative set of videos. Calmly spoken, knowledgeable, experienced instructor. I only had my bike a year and I lost count of the number of times I very nearly died. if only I had had some professional instruction upon passing my test, instead of trying to teach myself and learning the hard way. I will diligently watch all these videos and slowly put everything into practice. Thanks Roadcraft.
Glad I could help. Always remember to start carefully and build up slowly. Despite what some very famous vloggers on here say, you CAN'T lean as much on wet roads as dry.
one of the best vids i've seen on how to ride in any conditions, i've had bikes for 40 years and still enjoy others enjoying their experiences, and still enjoy videos like this, great reminders and spot on information .... thanks !
Just getting back into bikes after 34 years (turned 55 in March). I think a good way to spend the week waiting to take my MSC and get my M endorsement here in Texas is by watching some well done and informative videos like this one. Thanks from this side of the pond. I have a small stretch of bumpy road in front of the house so I've been getting back the feel a little and practicing, both maneuvering and low speed (parking lot type) turning on hard and gravel surfaces. Appreciate the vids.
As for someone like me who is just starting to ride I found the video informative and appreciate you taking the time to post it. Every bit of information that will help me be more cautious and alert is good information. THx
Good info and advice. In my experience from riding motorcycles in the Seattle area where it rains a lot, motorcycle tires are far less likely to suffer from hydroplaning / aquaplaning due to their profile/shape being more like a canoe. It's also helpful to use a tire that performs well in the wet... During a presentation by a metzelermoto test rider, he showed video of himself dragging knee in 2" of water. I have ridden my 2008 Buell 1125R at 125 mph on Metzeler Z6 Interact tires in the pouring rain without any hydroplaning. However, I did experience a near crash while riding 2-up with my wife Kimberly A Edwards on the same motorcycle with different tires. We were going straight on a slightly off-camber road at 38 mph in a 35 mph zone. The bike had Michelin Pilot Road 3 tires on it at the time which I found simply don't perform as well as the Metzeler Z6 tires in the wet. I switched back to the Metzeler Z6 tires shortly after that even though there was plenty of tread left on the Michelin PR3s. I just didn't trust them any more.
Right: I have NEVER ridden in the rain, but having checked the weather for my Mod 2 (today) thought I'd have another look at this video before I went out. Glad I did, as it was chucking it down before during and after my test. But I passed!! No small thanks to this guy. Thank you so much. Excellent advice.
Had my mod 1 test yesterday and was forecast for heavy downpours. Never ridden in the rain before as always avoided going out in it, but I listened to my instructor and also another one about stopping distances and speed, apart from that just to ride normally but paying more attention to the road surface. Not sure why I was so worried about it, absolutely fine and after passing the test with no minors, we had a great 3 hour road ride in the rain. Certainly helps to relax and plan ahead, especially when we rode around town with numerous wet manhole covers. I think it was the most enjoyable ride so far this week. Also - decent waterproof gear is a must regardless of the weather.
I passed my CBT in May 2013 acquiring a lovely little Kawasaki AR125 2-stroke. I've come off 2 times in the wet (one may have been diesel too) and find this video very helpful and confidence building. I have been very tense and scared riding in the wet since which I have to do as biking is my only transport. Thank you for chilling me out in such treacherous conditions!
Hi. As an advanced rider I would have already weighed up the traffic situation before getting to that point and "considered" whether a lifesaver would have been necessary at that point. I say to my pupils "If I don't do a lifesaver it's because I've CHOSEN not to do one" Glad you've remembered what you've been taught though, when training it's important to have these drummed into you. Cheers. :-)
I can say watching your videos have more than saved me many of times. Tonight was the first night I rode in the rain , and a lot of what you have been saying in your videos was used ... always very good information ... cheers
Love the mention about tensing up, not long after i passed my test i went to work in the rain one morning, no problemo,,,less than a couple of miles into my journey i was freezing my nuts off and by god my bike wouldnt go round a roundabout if its life depended on it, it put me off riding in the dreary weather for a while and i used the car. Next time i stuck a pair of longjohns and an extra jumper on and it was as enjoyable as any normal ride, keeping warm does wonders to stop embarassing roundabout activity due to tensing up!
just passed my test in jan and i have been watching lots of vidios to help me stay safe,this vids great viewing for me,today i was out giving counter steering a go.i was amazed.
Nice video, mate. Learned a few things and realized a few things that I was doing that I hadn't thought about. Like looking ahead at the traffic flow in front of you. Really good for your own safety. But I tend to have a swivel-head when I ride and drive; always looking for that unexpected event to pop up. You ride very smoothly and your teaching method is far better than I have seen on most of the other channels. Thank you for sharing this with us, and now.........off to smoother gear changing!
I was directed to your videos from a chap here in Ireland, can I say an excellent video.as a motorcyclist from the 70 and 80s and drove trucks for years, I like your comments on reading the road from the vehicles way out ahead and in front of you. again thanks for the video.
I just bought my first bike for London commuter riding. Talk about having to learn the hard way! I've noticed that I'm always tense and nervous so relaxing is something I'm having to learn. I suppose that comes with experience. But this video wonders to my concerns surrounding the wet. Thanks for this .
Thanks, Just survived a trip from Tampa to Orlando on a rainy Interstate 4. 70 MPH and a down poor. At one point I found my bike became a bit wobly and I remembered the bit at 5:10 about being too tense, and all of a sudden the bike settled down. You still couldn't drive a ten penny nail up my behind with a sledge hammer, but the bike was OK. Thanks again.
A very well thought out and narrated video. I may only ride a GW250, but many moons ago I low sided myself on a 8hp A100 in the wet in a car park. Gently apply the controls, pay attention, and all the rain will do it get your damp. Liked.
Hi there.I have been watching your videos since april when I passed my CBT.With your help, knowledge and the laymans style of your delivery I managed to pass my Mod 2 on tuesday morning here in a rain-soaked Glasgow.Just wanted to say thank you.I have discovered biking at the ripe old age of 44, how I got along without it before now puzzles me.Its the nearest thing I will find to religeon...which means I think you should now be ordained.Kidding and swanking aside, thanks so much."Bon courage":0)
Good point about watching and giving way to cars behind you. I live in London and there have been several times it has been prudent to give the nice person behind an opportunity to overtake. For one gentleman, of questionable parentage, i had to move to the centre line to allow him to "safely" undercut me at speed - he needed to jump the red light i was slowing down for. Do keep the advice coming and thanks for the tips :)
Very helpful, im getting my bike license and I plan on getting a scooter. This is the number one thing I worry about with a two wheeled vehicle, this has really helped me see that as long as your carful you can ride safely in wet weather.
Hi. As an all year round rider who has had a few years riding a motorcycle, I wanted to say what a great video. I definitely find wet weather riding makes for a safer dry experience. I found particularly useful your tips on braking and the use of the rear brake when coming to a stop. Thanks for all the good tips! Im now subscribed.
Good Afternoon. Just wanted to comment and thank you for the videos. I’ve binge watched most of them. I’ve had a ten year break between my last bike and now. I’ve come back with a lack of confidence and feeling in need of refreshing my skills. I am on a waiting list for a bike safe course but in the meantime these videos have been brilliant. I went out this morning, I now have an internal monologue going on while I ride. A long way to go I’m sure but I already feel much more aware, reading the road, positioning and evaluating corners. Thanks very much, keep up the good work.
Superb video! Funnily enough, I've just reviewed a book by a German author and he believes that the British are the best wet weather riders around. Thanks again from NZ!
This is great. I'm a driving instructor getting back into biking. There's some really good advice here. Particularly with observation looking ahead as far as possible. Only with advanced information can you plan in good time. Necessary for all road users. I look forward to checking out the rest of your videos. Thank you.
First I thought "Oh man, 14 minutes!". But started watching and before I knew it, you were done! Very relaxing, informative style. Thanks, I actually look forward to some rain!
Thank you so much for this. I'm so new to biking, (got my bike at the weekend just gone), and it's nothing but rain this week. I'm so scared to ride in the rain but you're video and advice has given me some confidence :) I'm still going to ride slowly and only go around my estate until I feel more comfortable, but at least now I feel confident to actually get on my bike. Thank you
I've watched almost all your videos, I thought I was pretty safe/skilled rider but I've started to practice. My confidence has gone way up! Thanks for the great tips!
This video has really helped my wet weather riding, I've gone from being rather tense in the wet to being incredibly calm. Thanks. Also I agree with enjoying riding in the wet, once you approach wet weather riding calmly and properly, I find that the experience can become more enjoyable as to use your words, it hones skils.
Thanks for your comment. It's nice to see an American who doesn't just think the MSC is all he needs. We're all learning and that's the best attitude to have. All the best and ride safe.
Thanks for this video. The weather has been so awful lately, and l am preparing for mod1 watching this gave the courage to get out and practise. I could not. really let rain held me back anymore .
Such a great video if only I watched this 2 days ago before sliding down the road with my lovely bike braking over a manhole cover with a new rear tyre! Nice vid mate!
great explanation of riding in wet weather in great detail , ive rode in the rain so many times and the biggest threat of all for me is wet leaves .... by far because they are so hard to see
Nice video. A favorite safe-driving rule from way back - “Apply both your accelerator and brake as though there were a raw egg between your foot and the peddle.” Cheers.
Enjoyed this video, it reminded me of the fellow who taught me how to drive years ago. Always look ahead know whats going on in front of you and check the mirrors now and then and know whats behind you. When I got my first bike a few years later his teaching made even more sense - ride defensively - you will survive much longer. Good job - Many thanks - Dave from Canada
I absolutely LOVE your videos ! I've learnt so much from them and I think it's awesome you share your precious advices (for free). I'm finally starting my direct access on the 1st Nov and I was a bit worried about the weather condition. However, I've been riding my bike to work for the last 4 years every single day so I can relate to your tips regarding breaking, pedestrian light to anticipate cars reaction and AVOIDING markings while turning/breaking. I hope all this experience will be helpful for my test ! Take care. Stan.
Thank you for your videos, very informative. Now passed my Full Motorcycle Test here in Auckland, NZ. Now riding a Triumph Thruxton and as you say in this video I am enjoying.
Dont laugh but i watched your vid and i rode my bike in horrendous rain and windy conditions to work yesterday and i began narrating to myself about how to ride in the wet information i picked up from your vid and i realy had fun riding , and safely the biggest help was to relax this made the bike so much more responsive and even when i could feel the rear tyre sliding at times on the white lines i just rode through it reduced my spead and didnt panic ensureing i was in control of the situation
i all ways give my self a running commentary on bike or car.its an oap thing for me..
I literally did that today! 😂 absolutely scary. But made it through safely and with more confidence than before
Thanks that’s excellent to read
I’ve been riding more than 22 years and never had an incident in the wet, so I must be doing something good :-). Saying that though, I did find your film very good. Seeing someone else ride and talking through how they are riding is very nice and informative. I does make me look differently at how I ride ( I even talk to myself now when I ride). No matter how long we’ve been riding motorbikes and how good we think we are, we will always learn something new or be reminded of something we may have forgotten. As they say, you’re never too old to learn. BIG thumbs up to you :-)
All car drivers should watch this, as well as bikers. Very good ride!
I'm new to riding (1month) and I'm really glad you have published this video. thank you
How are you getting on 3 years later
@@platinumgk6509how about three more years later
For every one person I didn't help, there's maybe 1000+ I did help. You must be an amazing rider to already have known all this info so congratulations on that. I recommend you produce a video and let me know when you've uploaded it so I can link to it for my subscribers to watch. I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks again.
I live in East Texas. Whenever it rains, it is a common comment that "People forget how to drive when it rains". I believe the truth is that those people don't know how to drive in the first place and the rain removes the "stupid" cushion from the road making the lack of skill more evident (your observation of the car following the bike too closely for example). Growing up in Norther Maine, driving and learning to drive in snow and ice, I support your comment that drastic changes, in speed or direction, is what causes problems in inclement weather/road conditions. Knowing this, you can adjust your ride accordingly, but a healthy dose of skepticism regarding the others on the road is not a bad thing.
"Stupid cushion"...lmao, I'm having that one in my repertoire. 😆
The first thing I learned about biking was: "drive like everybody tries to kill you." This made me very aware of everything around me, simply because I know the consequences if someone did run into me. Watching this just made me feel like I should take a look at not only the other vehicles, lines and road condition, but also on the road-surface (old/new asphalt).
I dont know where you're from but in england on our country roads are so bad even in my car I can feel my front wheels constantly skipping about. they try and fill the pot holes up but the problem is only 40% gone.
That strategy doesn’t work if you don’t mind dying. And it’s extremely ineffective if one wishes to die.
I've been riding for as long as I can remember in most weather conditions. However at nearly 70 years of age I'm not as confident in the wet as I was. Watching your video confirms I'm doing most thing's right just the odd thing on road surfaces I sometimes over compensate for. Super video, thank you. Ride safe and ride well. 🤓
Thanks for the feedback. Enjoy your wet riding now. ☺
I can sympathise, when i lived in Yorkshire i rode to work 365 days a year, snow is a visible threat, but the worst is black ice...trick is if the surface doesn't look shiny wet but like a matt finish...black ice...
Now at 71 I'm lucky to have lived in Southern Spain the last 37 years and ridden in the wet twice...so I'm pathetic on wet roads...But the last time I road 500kms in biblical rain so stuck to the motorways at 90mph, the only hazard was metal expansion joints on bridges. My Ducati on Bridgestone S22 tyres was epic.
Thanks for your help, I find your videos informative and encouraging; I'm taking my Module 2 in a week's time (2nd attempt), the day after my 63rd birthday. Learning on a Honda 600cc has been a bit of a journey, both mentally and physically - in fact, the hardest thing I've ever done - but I won't give up. It's also making me a better car driver, more aware of riders, and I'm conscious that there will still be a lot more to learn once I've passed the test, so I intend to have further tuition with an Advanced Driving instructor. Anyway, wish me luck! Liz (Bristol, UK)
Good for you Liz! I am in awe. All the best x
Very helpful thanks Roadcraft, i came off my first week riding in wet weather as tried to brake too harshly, After that i was very nervous in rain and came off again in a corner.
yesterday it was heavy rain and i spotted exactly what you said i was tense shoulders up teeth clenched and very shakey, i remeberd your advice and manged to relax myself a bit.
what a diffrance! im still not 100% conifdant but i did mange to keep control and avoid the same two mistakes i made previously I did get a bit of a skid approaching some lights as i was a bit harsh with the front brake, Thankfully again i recalled your brake use advice and eased up on the front and slightly eased the back brake on, avoiding coming off.
So thank you for the vid saved me a fall!
Your vids are the reason I I am able to watch my daughter Graduate from College. You have taught me how to survive on a motorcycle. This is a good example.. I live in Central Florida, US. We only have a couple days a year with cold freezing weather so there is not much time to learn on my own, so I rely on your voice in my head to get me home at night on those nights that we do. My daughter and, I think, my Wife Thank You. We All Wish You and Your Family a Happy Prosperous New year. And I Thank You for all the lessons learned. Ps. been missing you.
Hi,
Just came back from a ride, got caught in heavy rain. Hadn't ridden in rain for about a year.
I was a bit twitchy at first but kept my throttle smooth and used both brakes gently and it
was not fun, but not as horrible as I got more used to it.
I'm actually glad it happened as it did sharpen my rain riding up a bit
Great vid, you are an excellent rider/instructor
Nice to see a MC video from a guy with no hormone challenged behaviour for once. I learned a thing or two from your video. Nice work.
Had an minor "incident" the other day. Wet road and a sudden hard break from the car in front of me. I reacted by instinct (The wrong instinct sadly) and broke hard instead of trying to pass her by. I skidded 10 yards before I toppled. Damn! New heavier bike and a misjudgment of the bike's braking ability.
She was very sorry for the sudden stop, but I was responsible for keeping the proper distance not her. An ABS might have saved the day.
Luckily my footrest and the leather saddlebag saved the bike from big scratches. I got a few of those myself. But the important thing was that the bike didn't :-)
We all make mistakes, as long as we learn by them, it's not wasted. Glad you're ok.
This guy is a famous MC instructor in the UK.
After three years riding - I finally got stuck in the rain the other day. I applied the same techniques you explained in this video - and survived the ride home. Thanks very much for putting this up!
Thank you for making me smile regarding the "I have to fail you" comment, you're not my examiner. If you think that overtake was "absolutely crazy" I would recommend you never drive or ride a vehicle anywhere as that manoevre fulfilled all the criteria for an overtake 1/ never cause the overtaken vehicle to alter speed or direction 2/ Avoid making three vehicles abreast and 3/ the road was plenty wide enough not to have to use the opposite carriageway.
As a new rider commuting with a CBF600S in sub-zero celsius temperatures I found this lesson extremely helpful, thanks!
im taking my license in 2 days and it might be raining alittle the day i take my license. I have never been riding in the rain before even though i have been practise riding about 2000kms(1250miles ). im alittle nervous because of the rain but not scared. videos like these makes me more confident riding in "bad" road conditions. thanks for the video :D wish me good luck
+Twinzh UPDATE: got my license without complaints by the sensor. i now wrecked my bike because of oil in a turn. got only a few scratches nothing serious.
thanks, yeah it was a new experience to say atleast xD i'm going to get a new bike now, a supermotard instead of a sports bike. mostly because i dont need a sportsbike because its only a 125cc.
***** getting the yamaha wr125x this year so if i fall it might not take much damage.
you still riding? your profile pic is nice
This guy seems a perfect example that there are none so deaf as those who won’t hear. I learned to ride via DAS and tbh was horrified at how easy the test was. It was not till I did advanced training that I really learned how to ride. Your videos help do the same thing - covering the really important stuff of riding. Good on you for taking the time to do them. Whilst this poor soul looks doomed to learn the hard way, you are a a fantastic resource for those ready to learn. Thank you!
Good video. I just past my CBT last week, and got a new Ktm Duke 125. It's Christmas day now and it's raining, so I'm a little nervous as I've never been out in the rain on a bike. This will be my first time on my bike and my second time altogether counting the day I did the CBT. So just watching a few videos for tips before I set off. Thanks for the info, and Merry Christmas.
Panda Watch... Merry Christmas too, be safe and have fun. ☺
I came home yesterday from epic day ride going from 30c temps thru to cooler driving rain conditions on last leg. This is in NZ. I haven't done any wet riding for years but I tried to do what I have seen in this type of video and mainly to slow to conditions, keep good following distance and relaxing on the bike. I think tensing and reactive riding puts one at more risk. Learning to relax whilst riding to conditions AND within ability are real keys for me. Got home from heat, steep and winding roads, gravel surface, blustery winds then cooler driving rain and low visibility conditions. Typical NZ experience!
Very useful video, went out the other day and it started to rain just felt as if I lost all my confidence I was so tense, making mistakes at junctions, just glad to get home, I know it's going to rain today at sometime so think I'll go and practice. Thanks for advice.
We've all been there...scary shit when it happens on the M5 and surrounded by lorries. Actually enjoy it now just need a quality waterproof one piece and i won't have any excuses ;-)
Brian Capewell I got caught first time today coming out of Eastern Distributor toward Rockdale. Shit myself completely. Was putting along in panic mode!
It was raining when I was watching this video. I could not resist and I had to go for my first wet ride. I took my 90º turns at 15 kmh and outside town with national limit I could only go 60 kmh instead of 80. On top of everything I could not see a damn thing. Water on my visor, water and fog on my glasses. It is necessary to practise in the rain as it can catch you anytime. It really helps your throttle control. Thanks for this video mate.
Watching your vids is so relaxing, you ride very smoothly, of course you get a bit of fun, but always safely. Seeing some of the other youtube riders, it looks almost suicidal to ride a bike. Seeing yours makes it look natural and even "safe" (i know, i know, its a motorcycle, it will never be as safe as a car). Youre actually teaching me! LOL. Greetings from Spain.
You are quite a calm and safe driver. I really enjoy watching you driving through traffic and letting room for mistakes, thats is extremely important. You could show that "pympster" guy a thing or 20.
I love how calm you are all the time
I have been riding for 38 years and my son is about to get his Bike Learners, but because I can't hop on the back and teach him as we go along I have bookmarked this video so he can watch it several times.
Thank you for a well made lesson 'on' the bike.
Chillest dude ever! Great video.
I've been riding since about 1970.
This is probably the best tutorial on wet-WX riding I've see on UA-cam.
perfect video . his accent is so clear . hd video . good explanation.
thank u sir for making this video
Excellent instruction. I have ridden for many years and pretty much ride exactly the same as you. I always find riding a bike over a journey is far more fatiguing than driving a car over the same route as you have to ride/drive for everyone else on the road. My brother passed his advanced M/C test and he told me the techniques they use and I have to say that if you rode like they do, you would be arrested for dangerous driving - OK in a police chase, but not normal riding.
Brilliant video, keep it up!
Extremely professional riding, good tips also! +1 subscriber
Thank you. :-D
I commented about a year ago to this vid. I'd gotten back to bikes after 34 years away & at the age of 55. Just thought I'd pop back in to let you know that a year later I have 10,500 or so miles on the bike I bought brand new. Being in Texas I've sold my cage and the bike is my transportation. The wife still has her cage, but I ride. I've enjoyed your other vids, and have recommended this one to people who ask me about riding in the rain.
Ride well, ride long.
Good sound advice, nice video :-)
Thank you
That guy may never graduate to grown up bikes, sadly. It's a no-brainer that tuition is at its best when the tutor explains and demonstrates his subject methodically. I regularly view your videos as I find your explanations rub off and I pre-recognise situations on the road when I encounter them for the first time. That's the value of a good teacher.
Wet riding is my nemesis. For some reason I always tense up on corners - always afraid the tyres will let go. Normally each autumn as the weather deteriorates I practice keeping relaxed etc, and usually get on quite well. Then inevitably I hit a bit of diesel, leaves or rabbit blood and one of the wheel will twitch and I tense up and I'm back at square one.
pointer2null I came off in the wet and broke my arm. I feel more nervous riding in the wet now and it deffinitely affects your riding performance.
When I ride in the wet I tend to tell myself small inputs with the brakes, throttle, clutch and steering. Really enjoying this video.
This is like the Bob Ross of MC videos
Andrew Galloway 😂🤣😂
Now that made me laugh
I was thinking the same lol
I watched all of your videos and today I passed my driving exam in the rain. Thank you for everything!
best audio quality
I haven't rode a Bike in years and am now in the process of purchasing another one .This is a simply brilliant tutorial for refreshing the reflexes after years of being car and truck limited .Thank you so much for the refresher ..I really found it informative .
Good vid but......do not constantly ride in the center of the lane. Most vehicles leak oil. On dips it collects heavily .Oil drips off vehicles when braking causing more center of lane hazard.
I also ride like I am invisible.
For my response to this point, please check out the "general positioning and common mistakes" upload. Thanks
Here's the link in case it's hard to find.. go to time code 2.10 and 13.43
ua-cam.com/video/EBvsaN3Tc9c/v-deo.html
Very helpful! Finally someone not cursing all throughout the video like many other motorcyclists. Thanks for uploading.
Man hole covers! They need to be made of something else or at least stick something grippy to them
yea they tried that on some of them but the 'grip' just wears off too fast and then they do not care about replacing them for each and every one
My local council has a department which calculates the placement of manhole covers to be placed in exactly the same place as a motorcycle at maximum lean.
@@stevetaylor8698 lol i swear where i live there is this corner with 3 manhole covers mid corner side by side taking up the whole lane
Thanks. I sometimes need to keep reminding myself, as I do this for a living that it's normal to me, it isn't to most people. Glad I can help. Welcome back.
I hate the sunken manhole covers, I may aswell be kicked in the balls by mike Tyson it's that painful (sports biker rider btw), plus I hit a pothole and my handle bars wobbled badly but luckily I didn't come off.
lol
but srsly, price of riding a bike mate
And worth every testicle ;)
funnyfailer99
Speak of the Devil.... 2 days ago I hit a pothole and I'm not quite sure wtf I was doing but I came down and OMG my balls slammed across the tank so hard I had to pull over and sit down.
funnyfailer99 roflmao you guys are funny! thank god us girls don't have this problem ey :P lollll im soooo going to tease my hubby on this! he never told me it hurts his balls sometimes! i never knew this! haha
Just getting back on the bike after a 2 year lay off. Excellent advise for riders of all ages and experience. Thank you and very well done.
Im a new rider from the USA and this was a really nice video because we didnt go over wet riding conditions at motorcycle school. It was a two day course that taught the foundations of riding. If you're from the UK, you already know its worth following cause you guys know rain all too well :). Great video. I ride a Kymco 250 Venox cruiser
I’m a new biker and your video is excellent. Thankyou.
This will come handy here in rainy Sweden, thank you for a great video!
I'm addicted to these videos!! Excellent advice, given clearly, and concisely, without over-complication. Spot on. Thank you.
As a learner rider I must say you are the best. Thank you
been riding 20 years and still in one piece because I do everything in the video, good post mate!!!
Really a great, informative set of videos. Calmly spoken, knowledgeable, experienced instructor. I only had my bike a year and I lost count of the number of times I very nearly died. if only I had had some professional instruction upon passing my test, instead of trying to teach myself and learning the hard way. I will diligently watch all these videos and slowly put everything into practice. Thanks Roadcraft.
Glad I could help. Always remember to start carefully and build up slowly. Despite what some very famous vloggers on here say, you CAN'T lean as much on wet roads as dry.
one of the best vids i've seen on how to ride in any conditions, i've had bikes for 40 years and still enjoy others enjoying their experiences, and still enjoy videos like this, great reminders and spot on information .... thanks !
... Thanks for the great feedback. ☺
Seriously, this is the most informative motorcycle channel on youtube and I did my research.... Hats off!
Just getting back into bikes after 34 years (turned 55 in March). I think a good way to spend the week waiting to take my MSC and get my M endorsement here in Texas is by watching some well done and informative videos like this one. Thanks from this side of the pond. I have a small stretch of bumpy road in front of the house so I've been getting back the feel a little and practicing, both maneuvering and low speed (parking lot type) turning on hard and gravel surfaces. Appreciate the vids.
As for someone like me who is just starting to ride I found the video informative and appreciate you taking the time to post it. Every bit of information that will help me be more cautious and alert is good information. THx
Good info and advice.
In my experience from riding motorcycles in the Seattle area where it rains a lot, motorcycle tires are far less likely to suffer from hydroplaning / aquaplaning due to their profile/shape being more like a canoe. It's also helpful to use a tire that performs well in the wet... During a presentation by a metzelermoto test rider, he showed video of himself dragging knee in 2" of water. I have ridden my 2008 Buell 1125R at 125 mph on Metzeler Z6 Interact tires in the pouring rain without any hydroplaning.
However, I did experience a near crash while riding 2-up with my wife Kimberly A Edwards on the same motorcycle with different tires. We were going straight on a slightly off-camber road at 38 mph in a 35 mph zone. The bike had Michelin Pilot Road 3 tires on it at the time which I found simply don't perform as well as the Metzeler Z6 tires in the wet. I switched back to the Metzeler Z6 tires shortly after that even though there was plenty of tread left on the Michelin PR3s. I just didn't trust them any more.
Right: I have NEVER ridden in the rain, but having checked the weather for my Mod 2 (today) thought I'd have another look at this video before I went out. Glad I did, as it was chucking it down before during and after my test. But I passed!! No small thanks to this guy. Thank you so much. Excellent advice.
Had my mod 1 test yesterday and was forecast for heavy downpours. Never ridden in the rain before as always avoided going out in it, but I listened to my instructor and also another one about stopping distances and speed, apart from that just to ride normally but paying more attention to the road surface. Not sure why I was so worried about it, absolutely fine and after passing the test with no minors, we had a great 3 hour road ride in the rain. Certainly helps to relax and plan ahead, especially when we rode around town with numerous wet manhole covers. I think it was the most enjoyable ride so far this week. Also - decent waterproof gear is a must regardless of the weather.
I passed my CBT in May 2013 acquiring a lovely little Kawasaki AR125 2-stroke. I've come off 2 times in the wet (one may have been diesel too) and find this video very helpful and confidence building. I have been very tense and scared riding in the wet since which I have to do as biking is my only transport. Thank you for chilling me out in such treacherous conditions!
Hi. As an advanced rider I would have already weighed up the traffic situation before getting to that point and "considered" whether a lifesaver would have been necessary at that point. I say to my pupils "If I don't do a lifesaver it's because I've CHOSEN not to do one" Glad you've remembered what you've been taught though, when training it's important to have these drummed into you. Cheers. :-)
What did I learn from watching you videos this evening? Front break rear break down to 20 off the front. Many thanks for your videos
I can say watching your videos have more than saved me many of times. Tonight was the first night I rode in the rain , and a lot of what you have been saying in your videos was used ... always very good information ...
cheers
Love the mention about tensing up, not long after i passed my test i went to work in the rain one morning, no problemo,,,less than a couple of miles into my journey i was freezing my nuts off and by god my bike wouldnt go round a roundabout if its life depended on it, it put me off riding in the dreary weather for a while and i used the car. Next time i stuck a pair of longjohns and an extra jumper on and it was as enjoyable as any normal ride, keeping warm does wonders to stop embarassing roundabout activity due to tensing up!
just passed my test in jan and i have been watching lots of vidios to help me stay safe,this vids great viewing for me,today i was out giving counter steering a go.i was amazed.
Nice video, mate. Learned a few things and realized a few things that I was doing that I hadn't thought about. Like looking ahead at the traffic flow in front of you. Really good for your own safety. But I tend to have a swivel-head when I ride and drive; always looking for that unexpected event to pop up.
You ride very smoothly and your teaching method is far better than I have seen on most of the other channels.
Thank you for sharing this with us, and now.........off to smoother gear changing!
I love how you have to put little information about words that some youtubers may not understand.
I was directed to your videos from a chap here in Ireland, can I say an excellent video.as a motorcyclist from the 70 and 80s and drove trucks for years, I like your comments on reading the road from the vehicles way out ahead and in front of you. again thanks for the video.
I just bought my first bike for London commuter riding. Talk about having to learn the hard way! I've noticed that I'm always tense and nervous so relaxing is something I'm having to learn. I suppose that comes with experience. But this video wonders to my concerns surrounding the wet. Thanks for this .
Thanks, Just survived a trip from Tampa to Orlando on a rainy Interstate 4. 70 MPH and a down poor. At one point I found my bike became a bit wobly and I remembered the bit at 5:10 about being too tense, and all of a sudden the bike settled down. You still couldn't drive a ten penny nail up my behind with a sledge hammer, but the bike was OK. Thanks again.
I wish more riders had your knowledge and put it to use like you do. Very useful. Thanks for making the video
A very well thought out and narrated video. I may only ride a GW250, but many moons ago I low sided myself on a 8hp A100 in the wet in a car park. Gently apply the controls, pay attention, and all the rain will do it get your damp. Liked.
Hi there.I have been watching your videos since april when I passed my CBT.With your help, knowledge and the laymans style of your delivery I managed to pass my Mod 2 on tuesday morning here in a rain-soaked Glasgow.Just wanted to say thank you.I have discovered biking at the ripe old age of 44, how I got along without it before now puzzles me.Its the nearest thing I will find to religeon...which means I think you should now be ordained.Kidding and swanking aside, thanks so much."Bon courage":0)
Good point about watching and giving way to cars behind you.
I live in London and there have been several times it has been prudent to give the nice person behind an opportunity to overtake.
For one gentleman, of questionable parentage, i had to move to the centre line to allow him to "safely" undercut me at speed - he needed to jump the red light i was slowing down for.
Do keep the advice coming and thanks for the tips :)
Very helpful, im getting my bike license and I plan on getting a scooter. This is the number one thing I worry about with a two wheeled vehicle, this has really helped me see that as long as your carful you can ride safely in wet weather.
Hi. As an all year round rider who has had a few years riding a motorcycle, I wanted to say what a great video. I definitely find wet weather riding makes for a safer dry experience. I found particularly useful your tips on braking and the use of the rear brake when coming to a stop. Thanks for all the good tips! Im now subscribed.
I'm just starting my motorbike adventure currently moving of 125CC Scooter to a Motorbike. Your videos are very helpful. Thank You
Good Afternoon. Just wanted to comment and thank you for the videos. I’ve binge watched most of them. I’ve had a ten year break between my last bike and now. I’ve come back with a lack of confidence and feeling in need of refreshing my skills. I am on a waiting list for a bike safe course but in the meantime these videos have been brilliant. I went out this morning, I now have an internal monologue going on while I ride. A long way to go I’m sure but I already feel much more aware, reading the road, positioning and evaluating corners. Thanks very much, keep up the good work.
Thanks for the feedback and welcome back to biking.
Another great video, glad to see a very relaxed and level headed biker.
Superb video! Funnily enough, I've just reviewed a book by a German author and he believes that the British are the best wet weather riders around.
Thanks again from NZ!
This is great. I'm a driving instructor getting back into biking. There's some really good advice here. Particularly with observation looking ahead as far as possible. Only with advanced information can you plan in good time. Necessary for all road users. I look forward to checking out the rest of your videos. Thank you.
excellent video. returned to biking after 16 years and still get bum twitchty in the wet!thank you
First I thought "Oh man, 14 minutes!". But started watching and before I knew it, you were done! Very relaxing, informative style. Thanks, I actually look forward to some rain!
At last! A video describing how to ride in the rain where the presenter isn't ridding on a perfect sunny day. We'll done good sir.
Thank you so much for this. I'm so new to biking, (got my bike at the weekend just gone), and it's nothing but rain this week. I'm so scared to ride in the rain but you're video and advice has given me some confidence :) I'm still going to ride slowly and only go around my estate until I feel more comfortable, but at least now I feel confident to actually get on my bike. Thank you
I find myself doing most of these things. Sometimes I think I'm being too safe, but you really reinforced it. Thank you!
I've watched almost all your videos, I thought I was pretty safe/skilled rider but I've started to practice. My confidence has gone way up! Thanks for the great tips!
This video has really helped my wet weather riding, I've gone from being rather tense in the wet to being incredibly calm. Thanks. Also I agree with enjoying riding in the wet, once you approach wet weather riding calmly and properly, I find that the experience can become more enjoyable as to use your words, it hones skils.
Thanks for your comment. It's nice to see an American who doesn't just think the MSC is all he needs. We're all learning and that's the best attitude to have. All the best and ride safe.
Thanks for this video. The weather has been so awful lately, and l am preparing for mod1 watching this gave the courage to get out and practise. I could not. really let rain held me back anymore .
Such a great video if only I watched this 2 days ago before sliding down the road with my lovely bike braking over a manhole cover with a new rear tyre! Nice vid mate!
Thanks for the video, I recently completed my CBT and there was absolutely nothing about riding in the wet, so your video has been very usefull.
I completed mine a month ago and there still isn't.
great explanation of riding in wet weather in great detail , ive rode in the rain so many times and the biggest threat of all for me is wet leaves .... by far because they are so hard to see
Nice video. A favorite safe-driving rule from way back - “Apply both your accelerator and brake as though there were a raw egg between your foot and the peddle.” Cheers.
my biggest fear is the wet thanks for your very good advice. For me one of the most helpful biker advice videos around
Enjoyed this video, it reminded me of the fellow who taught me how to drive years ago. Always look ahead know whats going on in front of you and check the mirrors now and then and know whats behind you. When I got my first bike a few years later his teaching made even more sense - ride defensively - you will survive much longer. Good job - Many thanks - Dave from Canada
I absolutely LOVE your videos ! I've learnt so much from them and I think it's awesome you share your precious advices (for free). I'm finally starting my direct access on the 1st Nov and I was a bit worried about the weather condition. However, I've been riding my bike to work for the last 4 years every single day so I can relate to your tips regarding breaking, pedestrian light to anticipate cars reaction and AVOIDING markings while turning/breaking. I hope all this experience will be helpful for my test !
Take care. Stan.
Thank you for your videos, very informative. Now passed my Full Motorcycle Test here in Auckland, NZ. Now riding a Triumph Thruxton and as you say in this video I am enjoying.