Riding in the rain

Hello everyone,

Normally I would not ride in the rain; I haven't before, and probably won't again. But my driving test is tomorrow, and it's likely going to rain. From what I have seen here, the TCI, spark plug wires and ignition coils are notorious for cracking and then become extremely susceptible to dampness. For the coils/wires, my intention is to take a look at them tonight to see if there are any signs of cracking and cover them with liquid electrical tape. The TCI, it looks like I should take off the 2 (4? 6?) screws holding the top on and put a ring of silicone around the edge, then seal it?

Other than driving safe, is there anything else I should do from the bike's electrical perspective to prepare it for the rain tomorrow?

-Matt

 

a couple of days ago i got caught in a big rainstorm and i rode home the last 20 miles just pooring rain and my bike didnt as much as hesitate, i havent done anything for protecting the electrical, you should be fine for a road test :lol:

 

I've ridden in steady rain quite a few times, ususally less than 15 miles. I've only ridden in downpours once or twice. I've never had trouble with the electricals (knock on wood).

mikeg

 

In my neck of the woods they will not allow a riding test in the rain, nor will they test immediately after a storm due to wet roads.

 

kordasn,

I ride in the rain all the time - and haven't encountered a problem.

Good luck on the test today - I hope you passed it.

kd5uzz, too bad the ministry of Trans. Ontario does not reschedule due to rain or bad weather. I have read on local biker forums that some people have failed due to poor weather and they were unsuccessful in appealing because the ministry does not recognize poor weather as an inhibiting factor. Go figure.

 

Suggestion for driving tests:

Use a small bike, borrow or rent one if you have to.

If I had tried to take the test with my xj650, I would not have passed. The bike just does not have the required turning radius or slow speed handlng. It is awesome when you get moving, but in Ohio, you are going maybe 5mph. At one point you have an area slightly larger than a parking space. You have to go down it, make a left hand uturn, aim back across the spot to where you entered, make a right hand u turn and then proceed out. You cannot put your feet down, you have to stay within the lines. No way I could have done that on my 650.