Posted by INTRUDN on May 28, 2000 at 04:36:51:
In Reply to: Riding in the rain posted by Skeeter on May 27, 2000 at 22:00:34:
There are many factors to consider. Road conditions are more treacherous to bikes than other vehicles, mostly because of a lighter weight, and only having two wheels on the ground (Trikes are another story). On a freeway, rain gathers in the "grooves" that wear into the paved surface and cause the grooves to become invisible to the eye. If it is a familiar road, then you should know where they are and be able to avoid them. On unfamiliar roads, take extra caution. The question of what speed to travel at is as hard to answer as "what color is a piece of clear glass"--everyone has their own idea. I always try to match my speed with the other folks when I'm in heavy traffic until I can get off the highway/interstate/freeway. I would suggest doing this on your bike too, even more so in wet weather/showers. The size and weight of the bike, condition of the tires, and conditions of the road all come into play (as you hinted at with your friends Harley). I have ridden the Goldwing on the interstate in a downpour at 70mph and felt comfortable, but I wouldn't try it on my Intruder or Stef's Savage. Both bikes are lighter, and on wet surfaces, greater caution is advised. A good stiff crosswind can be devastating to a light bike, even on dry roads.
I always use this rule of thumb, and so far I haven't been let down: Never ride/drive faster than your Guardian Angel can fly!
OK Class dismissed!