Monsoons bring a much-needed respite from the scorching summer heat, but they also pose unique challenges for scooter riders. Slippery roads, reduced visibility, and waterlogged streets can make riding during the rainy season a daunting task.
However, with the proper preparation and techniques, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable ride even in the heaviest of downpours. In this article, we'll share seven essential monsoon riding tips that every scooter owner must know to navigate the wet roads with confidence.
Your scooter's brakes are the first line of defense against accidents, especially during the monsoons. When the brake pads or liners come in contact with rainwater, they tend to underperform on wet roads. Before the rainy season begins, inspect your scooter's brakes thoroughly.
If the brake pads or liners are worn out, replace them immediately. Clean the brake liners periodically and ensure that the brake oil is at the recommended level for smoother performance.
Even if your scooter is equipped with ABS, avoid applying the brakes abruptly. Press them gradually to prevent slippage and loss of traction, particularly while riding at high speeds or driving down flyovers.
Inspect your scooter tyres every 2-3 months or 5-6 months, depending on your usage. Look for signs of wear, cuts, or bulges, regardless of the season. Examine the tyres well before the monsoons arrive to ensure they are rain-ready.
Pothole-ridden city roads can damage even the best scooter tyres. If your tyres are worn out, replace them immediately, as they play a crucial role in providing grip and control over wet surfaces. Consider opting for tyres like Eurogrip's Terrabite DB+ or Durapro for monsoons. To check your tyre's tread depth, look for the Tyre Wear Indicator (TWI) mark inside the main grooves. For optimal grip, the tread depth should be at least 1mm, with the TWI visible on the shoulder part.
Check the air pressure of your scooter tyres regularly throughout the year to ensure maximum performance and minimal harm to the wheels. During monsoons, maintain the tyre pressure 2-3 PSI below the recommended point for sufficient grip.
A working headlight with maximum brightness is a must while riding in the rain, as visibility drops significantly. Dim headlights not only make it difficult for you to see the road ahead but also reduce your visibility to other vehicles. Similarly, dim taillights decrease your visibility to vehicles behind you, increasing the chances of accidents.
For daily commuters, periodic servicing and close weekly inspections are crucial to check for issues like engine oil leakage or brake oil leaks. These inspections can save you from being stranded in the middle of the road during a downpour.
Ensure your scooter's battery is in good health for smooth running during the monsoons. If required, change an old battery before the rainy season begins.
Apply petroleum jelly on the battery connectors to prevent damage from rainwater, especially if you frequently ride in heavy rains and navigate waterlogged roads. Petroleum jelly helps prevent corrosion on the battery terminals. If you don't plan to use your scooter during the monsoon season, consider disconnecting the battery.
Lubrication can be a regular issue during the rains, as the water washes away the grease between moving parts, exposing them to increased friction and rusting. Regularly lubricate the moving parts on your scooter, including the chain, throttle cables, and other key components. Use a waterproof chain lube for adequate protection over extended periods.
Ensure that the electrical components on your scooter are in working order. Check for correctly done wiring with no loose ends, functioning indicators, and operational headlamps and taillights. Pay attention to the instrument cluster, which is prone to failure due to bad wiring during monsoons.
Loose wiring and connectors are susceptible to corrosion and damage. Moisture can harm electrical components in the long run, so address any issues promptly.
Regularly clean your scooter of any muck, especially after traversing bad roads. Pressure wash at regular intervals, although not every day. Don't forget to check your riding gear as well. Wet riding gear, including helmets, jackets, pants, gloves, and boots, can breed mold and fungus during the damp season. Dry your gear regularly and invest in rain protection to keep yourself dry and healthy.
If you're taking your scooter out for the first time after an extended period of non-use, get it serviced or have a check-up done before riding. Invest in waterproof gear or rain gear that fits over your riding attire. The rainwear should be loose enough not to hamper your movement on the scooter, yet snug enough not to flap about or snag on any part, especially the rain pants. The more comfortable you are on the scooter (read: dry and warm), the easier you'll find riding in tricky conditions.
Don't forget to invest in a good pair of waterproof boots. Boots are often the most ignored part of riding gear during the rains. Even consider investing in brightly colored rain gear, as it makes you more visible in rainy conditions. If that's not your preference, at least ensure your gear has enough reflective strips to enhance your visibility at night.
Avoid using dark or tinted visors on your helmet in the rain. Clear visors provide much better visibility in gloomy monsoon conditions. Make sure your visor is clean and scratch-free before riding. Carry a clean, dry microfiber cloth to clean your helmet visor if it gets wet or muddy. If the visor is muddy, pour water on it to clear the mud before wiping it with the cloth to avoid scratching the surface.
During the monsoons, get your scooter pressure-washed more often than in other seasons. Mud sprayed into the scooter can damage components over time. Washing all the nooks and crannies of your scooter regularly ensures a longer life for all components.
Pay particular attention to the chain, especially if your scooter has an exposed chain that needs more attention during the monsoons. When washing your scooter, please focus on the chain and lube it generously after washing and drying.
Riding your scooter during the monsoons can be a challenging experience, but with the proper preparation and techniques, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable ride. Remember to inspect your scooter thoroughly before the rainy season begins, paying close attention to the brakes, tyres, battery, and electrical components. Regularly clean your scooter and riding gear to prevent damage and maintain hygiene.
While on the road, exercise caution and avoid sudden movements on your scooter. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, ride at a slower pace, and be extra careful when cornering. By following these essential monsoon tips, you can confidently navigate the wet roads and make the most of your riding experience during the rainy season.
Eurogrip offers a range of high-quality tyres designed to provide excellent grip and stability on wet roads. Their tyres undergo rigorous testing in various road conditions to ensure optimal performance and durability. Whether you're a daily commuter or an occasional rider, Eurogrip has the perfect tyre solution to keep you safe and comfortable during the monsoons. Stay prepared, ride responsibly, and enjoy the beauty of the rains with these monsoon riding tips for scooter owners.