In case you are in need of additional walking support due to an injury, for example, you can find what the best knee walker scooter is, in another article of ours.
In this article, we would like to discuss a different type of scooter, namely the motor scooter. We have done a lot of research about these vehicles, and we’ve stumbled on a topic quite often. There are a lot of people asking what would happen if their scooter got caught in the rain, or what happens if you leave it out in the rain.
So, if you are curious if scooters can get wet, we would like to begin with a simple answer: it is a vehicle, not a sugar cube, so it will definitely not melt. Let’s find out more!
Scooters vs Rain
Motor scooters represent a great alternative to cars in busy city centers. Although there are many things you can do to ensure your vehicle’s well-being and to keep it riding for many years, there are still some things you cannot control.
One of those things is the weather. Clearly, you have no control over it, and you probably found yourself caught in the rain many times while riding your scooter.
Of course, you can check the weather forecast and find alternative transportation when rain is announced, but let’s be honest: they don’t get it right all the time.
Scooters, just like motorcycles, have their engines and electrical components well protected under the frame. A vehicle manufactured by a reputable company will do just fine in the rain.
So, let us see: can rain damage your scooter? If it just rains over it for a short while, nothing will happen. However, if you leave your vehicle unattended for a long time, and constantly in the rain, it will start to rust. It is well known that metal and water do not go well together.
As a suggestion, if you cannot park your scooter in a garage or in a covered parking lot, you can cover it with a protective waterproof coat. There are many models on the market at very affordable prices.
If you are on the move and get caught in the rain, there are other things that can happen. For starters, the road is wet and becomes slippery. If you are not careful and insist on speeding, you can easily lose control and tip over. There is no telling how much damage this can do to your ride, depending on how it falls, and what it hits.
Also, if you ride at a high speed and go over a big puddle, water splashing from below can get to various parts that should not get wet. Again, caution is advised.
Since the engine contains many metal parts and electrical wiring, it is obvious that water should not get in. Still, if you ride carefully, you should not worry about this aspect. There are more important things that should concern you, such as your own safety.
Riding in the Rain
If riding on wet roads scares you, we have prepared some information and tips to prepare you. Riding in the rain can be just as safe as riding on a nice, sunny day.
Let’s imagine the following scenario: you are riding your scooter and suddenly the heavens open and it starts pouring. You cannot see very far ahead because of the spray coming off other vehicles.
Your visor begins to mist up and you are not really sure how you and your scooter are going to handle the situation. First, slow down a little. Relax and pay attention! After all, it is only water, right?
The Appropriate Equipment
If you are riding in the rain for a long time, you are going to get wet, and that is a fact. There is no rain equipment that will keep you completely dry. Still, there are some steps you can take in order to stay warm, comfortable, mostly dry, and also safe.
If you get wet, you are going to feel cold. This decreases your ability to concentrate. One of the first things to consider is visor fogging. Due to the moisture in the air, every helmet fogs up. Look for a helmet with a visor that has anti-fog properties. Most importantly, do not get a dark visor, but a clear one, or a clear yellow, which increases contrast and vision in bad conditions.
Your hands are next in line because they are the first point that gets cold. If they go numb, you will not be able to operate the controls and ride safely. Get a pair of gloves that have a waterproof membrane.
We know that scooter riders don’t usually wear the same type of equipment motorcyclists wear. Also, on the scooter, your feet are protected better because they are not positioned on the sides of the vehicle, but in front of you, like sitting on a chair.
However, if the rain is pouring, your feet will also get wet. A decent pair of waterproof boots can be just what you need to keep your feet dry and warm.
Because the rain is going to get inside your outer and inner layer, you need to be dressed for the occasion and try to keep as dry as possible and especially warm. A fleece jacket can work well, and so can a wool sweater. A scarf or a balaclava is also recommended, but get a model that does not soak water, to protect your neck.
On top of everything, take into consideration that you are not the only one with reduced vision. All other drivers and riders share this issue in such bad weather. For that, you should wear bright reflective items to make yourself more visible so that others might notice you through the water spray.
What to Do when it Rains?
You may not know this, but road surfaces are porous. When dry, those pores soak up oil and other substances that are lifted to the surface by rainwater. Actually, the most dangerous time to ride is the first hour after it starts to rain.
Furthermore, road accessories that are otherwise designed for safety can also become hazardous. When they get wet, the paint marking lanes become icy-slick, so it is recommended to stay off of them. It is the same for tar snakes, manhole covers, or steel plates.
Moreover, the water from the surface gets between your tires and the road which reduces grip. All that tread from your tires is there to remove water from between the tire and the road.
You should also avoid puddles or anything that might be deeper than half an inch. If there is no choice and you have to go over it, keep a steady throttle while bolting upright and stay off the brakes.
Moreover, fast-moving water should clearly be avoided. In case a stream has broken its banks and it is flowing across the road, alter your route to avoid it and do not even think about riding through it, as it can kill you.
The right equipment is very important when riding in the rain, but it can happen that you got caught, and there is nothing you can do but continue your course and get wet. Equipment or not, it is essential to slow down.
By doing so, you will not only ask less of your grip levels and tires, but you will also have a chance to look ahead, identify any potential hazards, and avoid them in time. This will also offer you more time to read the road signs and decrease your braking distances as well.
Last, but not least, try to focus on riding more smoothly. Abrupt and harsh application of power, steering or brakes can intensify the limited grip on offer, which may cause premature loss of traction.
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