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How to Bicycle in the Rain

With fluctuating gas prices and today's trend toward greener living, bicycle commuting looks more and more appealing. For some people, a little rain may quickly dispel notions of a two-wheeled commute -- but it needn't. Commuting, even in the rain, helps you maintain your fitness level, do something healthy for the environment and enjoy the great outdoors. With a little know-how and the right gear, rain cycling can be an enjoyable and money-saving activity.

Things You'll Need

Fenders
Rain coat
Helmet
Front white light
Rear red light
Water-resistant shoes
Water-resistant pants or front leg covers
Waterproof bag/backpack

Instructions

Outfitting Your Bike
- 1
  
  Fenders keep water and mud from slinging off the wheel and onto your pants, legs or back.
  
  Obtain fenders, an important piece of equipment for cycling in the rain. Without fenders, you will get wet and increase the chance of a miserable ride. Find good fenders at any bike shop for about $40 and up. Cheap fenders sell for about $15.
- 2
  
  Bike lights come in a number of styles and shapes -- pick one that matches your bike.
  
  Install heavy-duty bike lights. Good bike lights are available at most bike stores for about $30. Visibility is decreased when you ride in the rain, and a lights help alert drivers to your presence, keeping you safe. A light also helps you see large puddles or other hazards. Equip your bike with a bright white light on the front and a flashing red light on the back.
- 3
  Keep your bike tuned up and clean. You do not need to spend a lot of money on a tuneup, and it is essential for riding in the rain. It's much harder to correct for a mistake or malfunctioning bicycle when it's pouring rain and the streets are wet. If every part on your bike is working correctly -- especially the brakes -- you minimize your chances of crashing.
Outfitting Yourself
- 4
  
  Choosing bright colors helps with visibilty.
  
  Purchase a rain repellent overcoat or a rain cape. Pick something long in the back to cover your rear end while riding. Rain capes are good if you carry a backpack; wear the cape over your pack to keep your body and belongings dry.
- 5
  Wear water-resistant pants. Snowboarding pants work well and you may find these at thrift stores or sporting good stores. Be sure to consider breatheability if you're cycling a long distance. Another good option for maximum breatheability and minimal wetness is a pair of strap-on, protective rain pants sold specifically for biking and horseback riding.
- 6
  Cover your hands with waterproof gloves, such as snow gloves.
- 7
  Pack a change of clothes. Even with all these precautions, sometimes you get wet. Carrying along an extra set of work clothes in a waterproof bag is smart and keeps you from spending a day at work wearing wet clothes.
Riding in the Rain
- 8
  Keep alert. Rain compromises visibility for both you and drivers. Take a second look over your shoulder before turning, and always signal.
- 9
  Stay clear of huge piles of brush or leaves; they could be hiding rocks or large branches. Wet leaves can be uite slippery, so use caution when navigating even small amounts of leaves on wet ground.
- 10
  Keep an eye out for train tracks, which are slick when wet. Always cross perpendicular to the tracks; try not to take them at an angle.

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