Riding your bike in the rain: tips and tricks

There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. A saying that everyone has probably heard at some point in their life before. That’s why we’ll start by having a look at the right clothes: a functional rain outfit for cyclists. 

Tip 1: Rain jacket 

A high-quality rain jacket is a must-have for your bike tour on rainy days. This amazing piece of clothing is water repellent, breathable and temperature-regulating. It ensures you always stay dry and comfortably warm. 

Tip: Thin and extra-light versions can be easily folded and put in even the smallest of bags or backpacks. 

Tip 4: Anti-glare visor and rain protection for your bike helmet

Wearing a bike helmet with anti-glare visor isn’t just recommended on sunny days. Because: When it rains, the visor keeps at least some of the water from getting in and on your eyes. Additionally, special rain covers prevent moisture and cold air from entering the vents. If your head tends to get cold easily, a warm beanie or skull cap to wear underneath your helmet might be a good idea.

Tip 5: Mudguards 

When roads are wet from the rain, mudguards really live up to their name. Besides protecting the tyres, they also protect your clothes when you take your bike for a spin. Muddy water and kicked up dirt have little chance of getting on you. This doesn’t spare you from having to clean your Simplon bike after the tour but at least your rain outfit won’t get overly dirty … 

Foresight is better than hindsight – there’s a lot of truth to this saying too. Curtain call for five important rules that contribute to your safety while riding your bike in the rain.

One thing is true both when you’re driving a car or riding a bike: The braking distance increases in the rain. Some reasons for that: Less tyre traction on wet roads and a delayed braking effect when the bike’s rims are wet. That’s why anticipatory behaviour is essential on rainy days to ensure your own safety and the safety of other road users.

Where there’s rain, there are usually also puddles – both on the road and on the side of the road. The stronger the rain, the higher the likelihood of encountering pooling water on your bike tour. In case of puddles, we recommend: Stay away from them, if you can’t see their bottom! Potholes can be deep, and loose pieces of rock or other damages to the road can become impossible to see.

Do it like the pros – and reduce your tyre pressure by 5 to 10 bar ahead of every ride in the rain. Because: Less air equals more surface area and better traction on the road and thus also more riding comfort and safety. 

After one tour means ahead of the next: That’s why you should always give your Simplon bike a good clean after every ride in the rain. Make sure you check the tyres and the chain while you’re at it! 

Talking about Simplon bikes: You’re still looking for the perfect two-wheeled companion for a rainy-day ride? Check out our road bikes, e-bikes and trekking bikes for all types of weather or configure your individual bike in our bike configurator!