Some reasons to ride in the rain

Rain is one of the meteorological phenomena that has frustrated more bike rides. This little honorable merit has turned it into a feared enemy for many cyclists. And although sometimes there is no choice but to stay at home, there are other times when there are reasons to ride when it rains.

Riding in the rain. There are reasons

Often, it seems that the weather tries to conspire against the innocent cyclist who only intends to go out to clear his mind and exercise for a while. Rain is the usual enemy of the cyclist, an expert at spoiling outings.

Bright sunny days are rare at some times of the year. Without the right equipment, rain can turn a bike ride into an unpleasant, uncomfortable and more unsafe experience than we would like. 

But despite everything, there are times when the rain can become an added incentive and even bring some benefit. Here are some reasons for this.

First of all, it improves cycling skills. Cycling becomes more unsafe in the rain. These are days that require more concentration and caution because the conditions are more delicate. In this article we explain some tips for riding in these conditions.

Water will, of course, make the road surface and obstacles more slippery. An effect that will be even more noticeable on the road against paint or anything metal.

Since it will take longer to brake and it will be easier to slide, you will have to brake earlier and more gently, especially on downhill. And since the tires lose grip in the curves, you should ride with your body more upright and have specific tyres for rain if possible.

All these inconveniences will make us more skilled on the bike. A skill that will increase with experience. However, you should never exceed the limits: you should be cautious, ride slowly, without sudden movements, in a straight line and even dismount if necessary.

Don't let the rain spoil your outing

Thanks to the rain, we will find out if our waterproof material is really appropriate. Raincoats, jackets, mudguards and so on will be under examination and we will have to make an effort to take care of them. In addition, it will be easier for us to make the complicated decision of how many layers of clothing to wear, which we can also apply when it is not raining.

Consistency will be another aspect that will be reinforced. Rain is quite common in some areas, so getting water is not an impediment to go out will make us spend more time on the pedals. As we will be more consistent, we will also improve our performance.

With the rain many cyclists choose not to go out, so there will be fewer people on the roads. A lack of company that will be appreciated by those who ride on busy trails.

In addition, the smells and colors of nature are intensified, which can be quite rewarding in our experience.

And finally, of course, we will appreciate more the comfort of the days without rain. When the anticyclone arrives, the outings will become placid days in which we will be able to enjoy cycling even more.

That said, we must always apply common sense and stay at home when circumstances require it. So we will have to accept that sometimes we will have to surrender to the turbo trainer.