When the clouds darken, and the rain starts, many dirt bike enthusiasts find themselves ripping up between the uncertain wet conditions and their desire to ride. However, for the dirt bikers devotee, that rain brings a unique opportunity to test their skills in wet-weather riding. But with the excitement, a question arises: Can you ride on a dirt bike in the rain?
As you know, the rain brings multiple challenges and considerations for dirt bikers during riding. Dirt bikes are made to hitch a ride in the rain. So, it’s safe to ride a dirt bike in the rain. For riding, you must be prepared to avoid difficulty on rain-soaked terrains. You should know about some safety precautions, riding skills, and risks to have happened.
It’s an adventurous moment to ride on rainy tracks. Some tracks may be short and less muddy, but some are more challenging to ride. You may be covered with mud from helmet to boots. In the mud, you’ll need thrust to avoid getting stuck and prevent damage to the bike.
Personal preferences and rider ability will greatly help in handling the muddy surrounding. Throttle and clutch control and good tires are the key elements for riding. Some dirt bike thrillers need clarification about going out in slippery mud during rain, but it is quite interesting for them.
Here, we’ll explore the challenges of riding a dirt bike in the rain and examine the safety measures and techniques required for wet-weather rides. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a novice, join us to embark on new riding skills and possibilities.
Is it Safe to Bike in the rain?
I’ll say a big YES for experienced and well-prepared bikers. They critically know all the precautions and risks of a ride. If you don’t prepare your bike for riding in rain or water, it may be damaged cosmetically or mechanically.
On the other hand, it may be dangerous for beginner riders due to slippery conditions. The tires get smooth and stuck in the mud, causing them to fall off the rider. Therefore, I don’t recommend biking in the rain to those unfamiliar.
Dirt bike is fun for those who like adventures and driving in the rain. They always consider these factors to avoid any risk:
- Reduced traction
- Slippery roads
- Hydroplaning
- Splash zone
- Limited visibility due to rain
- Braking distance
Can a Dirt Bike Get Wet?
Yes, dirt bikes can get wet. Dirt bikes are created for specific conditions, including rain and wet environments. It can hurt beginners to go on riding when it’s raining. In contrast, others will enjoy their journey to memorable tracks. When you buy a dirt bike of a quality brand, its components are sealed to prevent water from getting in.
However, prolonged water exposure can adversely affect the components and performance.
✦ Avoid Large Layers of Water
Riding a dirt bike through water looks like a thrilling ride. You may have seen large layers of water splashing around you. It can increase the risk of crashing. If a bike goes deep in water, it may submerge in the engine and cause serious damage. So, always try to avoid large layers of water bodies.
✦ Wash and Clean Your Bike
To avoid corrosion and rusting, washing and cleaning your bike just after the ride in the rain is essential. Rusting can take a few hours to occur.
✦ Don’t Ride for Too Long
It would help if you did not ride long distances, as the rain can harm the gadgets, graphics and other elements. It would be best if you dried up the bike immediately after riding.
Can You Keep a Dirt Bike Outside?
Keep a dirt bike outside for a short time. It may be harmful to the performance and longevity of your dirt bike. However, there are better places to keep your dirt bike.
It’s a bad idea to keep your dirt bike outside for many reasons. It could be damaged graphically or vulnerable to theft. Therefore, I suggest you store your bike in a garage at dry room temperature.
✦ Your Bike Could Get Stolen
You’ve invested a lot of money in your bike; therefore, you don’t want to keep your dirt bike outside. Leaving the bike outside increases the risk of theft or vandalism. It becomes an easier target for thieves. So, you should avoid placing the dirt bike outside.
✦ Damage to Your Bike
Keeping your dirt bike outside may cause much damage, like rust. The water can seep into the wiring, lighting, sensors and other electrical parts leading to the malfunctioning of the whole electrical system of the bike.
Plastic and rubber components like wheels, grips and seals can deteriorate when exposed to the harsh conditions outside.
✦ Hurts the Value of the Bike
Do you ever think about reselling your dirt bike with a satisfying amount? If yes, then you should not keep the dirt bike outside. Because the bike would get rust, faded paints, low performance and clogged components. Thus making it less valuable, resulting in a loss for you.
Leaving Your Dirt Bike in the Rain
Rain isn’t ruinous for your dirt bike, but leaving it to bathe for days or weeks will. Water can cause rust and corrosion on different parts of the bike.
✦ When is it OK?
It’s OK to leave your dirt bike outside if it is drizzling or raining slowly for a very short time. Less rain will not cause any impairment to the bike.
✦ When to Avoid?
Avoid leaving your dirt bike if it’s raining for many days. It can be catastrophic for your dirt bike when it’s raining heavily with hails. It may result in corrosion and damage to motors. Heavy rain falls on the surface and sheets of the bike with force, causing a bad effect on the bike. Therefore, never leave your dirt bike when it’s raining heavily.
Riding and Racing in the Rain
Typically, the dirt bike races aren’t canceled if it begins to rain. The slippery wet condition of the trails is most dangerous for the riders during racing. While slipping is a danger for the riders but is entertainment for the viewers. It’ll be an exhilarating experience for riding and racing in the rain.
If you get stuck in a storm in the backcountry, we’ll not be worried about you. Because you’re the best rider! Some things are suggested to follow for racing and riding:
✦ Waterproof Enduro Jacket
A waterproof enduro jacket is made to protect against rain or wind during enduro racing. These jackets are manufactured with durable and waterproof materials to keep you dry and comfortable while riding.
Look for a jacket with breathable vents to enhance airflow and prevent overheating. It’ll allow the sweat and moisture to escape from the inside. Opt for a jacket with adjustable cuffs, waist and collars. Wear the jackets with storage pockets to carry the essentials like keys, phones, or energy bars while riding.
✦ Gore-Tex Boots
How do you feel when water gets in your boots? It’s the worst feeling when water enters the boots while riding. Therefore, you should invest in waterproof boots. Gore-tex boots are designed to give protection for various outdoor activities, hiking, mountaineering and racing in the rain. Gore-tex boots are known for their durability and comfort during long racing and adventures.
Some popular brands of gore-tex boots are Salomon, Columbia, Merrell and the North Face and Scarpa. Each brand has styles and features that fit your foot shape and preferences.
✦ Waterproof Gloves
When riding a dirt bike in racing, you must wear waterproof gloves to grip the controls and maintain dry hands. The adjustable closure around the wrist ensures a snug and secure fit. If you use touchscreen devices like GPS for location, choose gloves with touchscreen-compatible fingertips.
✦ Full-face Helmet
The most crucial gear for dirt bike riding in the rain is a full-face helmet. Not only does it save the bikers from fast-moving droplets of rainwater, but it also saves them from crashes. If you are not using a full-face helmet, raindrops can hurt you when hit in the face. A half-face helmet is not enough to avoid the drip down of rainwater on the face.
Leave the quarter-face helmet; racing or riding in the rain is not satisfying. Always try to buy a full-face helmet. It’ll seal up your face from the approaching wind and rain. Motocross helmets are a must while racing or off-road riding.
I’ll advise you to find a helmet with anti-fog treatment and properties to maintain clear visibility in rainy conditions. A full-face helmet is necessary to avoid the water tracking down from face to jacket and other gear. It’ll keep you warmer and more comfortable.
The MX store has quality brands of full-face helmets recommended for you.
✦ Waterproof Enduro Pants
Have you ever used dirt bike rain pants? It would help to have waterproof dirt bike rain pants while driving in the rain and racing on mud-filled tracks. If you want to nail it, get a set of these pants. They may be heavy or expensive as compared to normal dirt bike pants. However, their stuff is certainly worth the price.
Driving a dirt bike in the rain can lead to more splashes and mud spray on the tires. Waterproof pants repel the water and keep your legs dry. Consider the pants for the best breathability and comfort. They have knee guards to prevent you from any injury if you fall off, unfortunately.
Always go with waterproof enduro pants to drive in the rain. The rain pants have sheets of nylon and Gore-tex material.
The Best Place to Store My Dirt Bike
A garage or an area with room temperature is the best place to store your dirt bike. The storage location of your dirt bike is vital. So, you must select a storage space to protect your bike from the worst weather conditions. I will explain the safe places to the dirt bike owner to store the bike. Let’s have a look at those suggestions:
✦ In a Garage
Storing the dirt bike in a garage is the best option, providing a controlled environment to protect it from damage. It will be safe from thieves too. As per National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) report 2022, around 43,718 dirt bikes were stolen in the United States. These numbers are increasing every year.
Before storing your dirt bike, it’s important to clean the bike, perform maintenance, use a stand, maintain the proper ventilation and cover up in the garage. Use the best quality cover for your bike. You can use either a cloth or a blanket to wrap your dirt bike.
Thorough cleaning of dirt bikes is necessary before storing them. This will prevent contaminants and corrosion on your bike over time. Changing the oils and lubricants, adjusting tire pressures, and maintaining the gears and chain are the key components to maintaining a bike.
A stand or lift should keep the bike off the ground. This will keep the bike stable and balanced. Use a breathable motorcycle cover to protect it from dust, debris or other particles. Make sure that garage has a ventilation area to reduce humidity and stop it from rusting.
Periodically, it would be best to check up on the dirt bike even after storing it in a garage. Look for any signs of damage, pest activity or moisture accumulation.
✦ Inside Home
I always prefer to store my dirt bike inside my home instead of the garage. Some riders need a garage to store a bike, but inside the home is the ideal option. You can keep the dirt bike nearby with sufficient space at home.
Firstly, choose a suitable space at home. It should be dry, well-ventilated and safe. Ideally, choose a place to designate a garage, like a storage room or basement. There would be no obstructing walkways or other inconveniences.
Secondly, clean the floor and place a protective mat to avoid oil or dirt stains. To keep the dirt bike balanced, use a sturdy stand or lift. Use a protective cover specifically made for dirt bikes to avoid dust particles.
Thirdly, maintain all your dirt bikes parts like sprockets, chains, wheels, lights, wiring systems, engine oils, and lubrication. Storing your dirt bike at home needs extra planning space and consideration. Ensure that the designated storage area is appropriate and does not pose any safety hazards to you or others in the home.
Do you know?
Dirt bikes can typically handle temperatures up to 120 °F.
Can a Regular Bike Get Rained On?
Yes, a regular bike or bicycle can get rained on, as rain is not the worst enemy of motorcycles until you keep its maintenance with time. Bikes always encounter rain while outdoor rides. It’s up to the regular bikes’ frame and designation because they are unlike other dirt bikes.
Meanwhile, I advise you to save your regular bike from getting rained on. Regular bikes may be delicate, and their machines have different stories. If a regular bike is rained on, its frame may get rusty, and submerged water to all accessories will cause damage.
Some bikes have sealed components to remain safe from the rain. If you want such a bike, prefer the dirt bike.
Tips for Riding Dirt Bikes in the Rain
The dirt bikers get aroused to welcome the rainy season and ride in ferocious terrains. Riding in the rain is an adventurous aspect for the bikers. But the bikers know they may fall ill if wet and soaked in rainwater. All soggy clothes will make them uncomfortable during a rainy ride.
Knowing its threats, a dirt biker should use the proper rain gears to relish the ride. Good rain gear will prevent rainwater from seeping into the dirt bikers’ vents. Without getting wet in the rain, the rider can enjoy the journey.
The dirt bike is also vulnerable to rain and wet, muddy conditions. To cherish the ride, a dirt bike rider must perpetuate the motorcycle. Getting water into your dirt bike may reduce the functionality and life span of the battery or other elements. Here are some key points to prepare yourself and your bike elements.
Here I’ll explain some tips for riding a dirt bike in the rain to prevent any miserable experience. Let’s delve in!
✦ Pre-Treat Your Dirt Bike To Ride In Rain
Is it scary for you to ride a dirt bike in the rain? If yes, feel free to talk about the engine and electric frame of the bike. Generally speaking, the dirt bike can be ridden through difficult trails. All the electronic wiring is well-sealed by the manufacturers like Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki and KTM. However, pre-treatment of your dirt bike can improve its performance and help protect it from potential damage.
Clean the dirt bike with a bike-specific cleaner. Use brushes or sponges to clean the dirt and debris from the bike’s frame, wheels and other components. After drying, apply a protective coating of water repellents or protectants.
A well-lubricated chain is crucial for smooth and efficient performance in the mud. Before starting a ride, apply a lubricant to chains, ensuring it reaches all the links and rollers. Moreover, adequate tire pressure is essential for optimal traction and control in the rain. Then check your necessary suspension system to accommodate the changes in the terrain and grip.
Remember to prioritize safety and ride within your skill level. Pre-treating your dirt bike before a ride in the rain will give you the best experience for your riding style and adventure.
Bring Waterproof Riding Gears
How do you stay dry on a motorcycle in the rain? Staying dry while riding a motorcycle in the rain requires proper gear and strategic measures. So you should bring waterproof riding gear for your comfort. A good rain suit has a waterproof hood, boots, gloves and vented goggles.
Therefore, purchase a rain suit made of waterproof material lined with Gore-tex. Most rain suits have two pieces, like a waterproof jacket and pants. However, some companies make one-piece suits according to the choice of riders. The rain suit provides warmth to the riders in the rain.
A zipper protects the rider from submerging in water during riding. Always try to opt for a light-colored rain suit so that you can be observed on tracks easily. You’re going to get wet in the rain riding. If you fall off wearing a waterproof rain suit, you’ll be relaxed and dry and continue the ride.
For trail riders, a dry bag is the second gear to be used in an emergency. A dry bag contains waterproof stuff for you without being wet.
Wear Vented Goggles For Visibility
Foggy goggles are the worst. For riding in the rain, it’s recommended to wear vented goggles. Japanese vented goggles have more visibility even in the rain. These goggles don’t allow rainwater to enter your eyes. Hence, fogging is a big issue during rain, solved using a vented lens.
You’ll have life-saving gear if it’s in your budget and preferences.
✦ Wear Waterproof Boots
Waterproof boots can keep your feet dry and comfortable, enhancing your riding experience and reducing discomfort. Waterproof boots are made of nylon and Gore-tex material membranes. They repel the rainwater and keep your feet dry.
Select boots with height and coverage from toe to ankle. It’ll help you to prevent water and mud entry due to splashing. A grippy sole helps to maintain stability and control of riders in wet conditions.
✦ Be Careful Riding through puddles.
Riding through the puddles on a dirt bike in rainy conditions requires caution and careful consideration. Before riding through the puddle, assess the depth and potential hazards. Approach it at a controlled speed or, if possible, walk through it. Going too fast may cause loss of tract due to splashing. Therefore, try to keep the speed low.
Keep your body relaxed, with bent knees and elbows slightly flexed. This will keep you more balanced while passing through the bump. It’s best to avoid sudden braking and acceleration to keep the traction. Overall, exercising and maintaining control will help you navigate the puddle safely while riding a dirt bike in the rain.
✦ Ziplock Your Phone And Other Items
Some riders like to take their phones and other accessories with them. If you’re one of them, you should ziplock your phone and other gadgets with you. It’s an inexpensive way to protect them from rainwater.
You can safely put your phone, keys, or any document in the relevant-sized ziplock. Moreover, avoid using your phone or any other electronic media while riding in the rain. Consider using navigation apps or music players with voice prompts or hands-free. Always prioritize your safety while riding in the rain!
✦ Don’t Go so Deep in the Mud
Riding on a dirt bike in the rain may be dangerous for beginners. But if you’re riding skills, you can pass through muddy areas easily. Riding in the mud significantly reduces the traction between the tires and the ground. Deep mud can be sticky or viscous. So it’s good to avoid going deep into the mud.
The mud can cause wear and tear to your bike. Mud and rainwater may enter the engine, air filters, and suspensions, reducing the bike’s life span. Therefore, don’t go deep in the mud while riding in the rain.
✦ Change Tires
Depending upon the condition of the tires of your dirt bike, changing the tires can improve its performance. When selecting tires for riding in the rain, it’s important to consider the terrains you’ll encounter. It’s also worth consulting with a professional at a motorcycle shop or a tire specialist to get recommendations.
A strong grip on the tires is needed to get stuck in the wet mud. You should check tire pressure, which is the key factor. For optimum performance, you need to change the wheels as per need.
✦ Use Helmet Communication in Crisis
Using helmet communication, dirt bikers can talk to each other in off-road riding. The helmet communication consists of gadgets like a speaker, microphone or wireless link for rider inter-communications. It is interconnected to the phone, music player, GPS, and FM Radio.
The transmitter and receiver use the Bluetooth technology of the INTERCOM. Riding in the rain can be improved using helmet communication for dirt bike riders. Group riders always prefer to adopt helmet communication to communicate with each other. You can connect to fellow riders to provide real-time updates, warnings and instructions.
If you’re stuck in an emergency, like slipping on mud or an accident, the helmet communication system will enable you to communicate with emergency services quickly.
Post Ride Clean-up
I hope you’ve pre-treated your dirt bike before starting your ride in the rain. But proper post-ride clean-up is crucial after the ride. It’ll maintain the appearance and longevity of your dirt bike. Firstly, remove the sticky mud from the bike with a pressure washer. Clean the chain, air filters and suspensions with a cleaner or detergent. Let the bike dry now.
Secondly, you should wash all your muddy waterproof gear after the ride. Most importantly, clean your waterproof boots. Jackets, goggles, and gloves prepare them for the next joyful ride.
Riding is freedom. Happy go riding!
Conclusion
If you own a dirt bike and riding in the rain is your favorite task, you need to take care of your dirt bike. You can go riding even when it’s raining outside. You may experience a lot of fun when riding in the rainy season, but you must follow the tips mentioned earlier and tricks.
Rain can destroy your dirt bike if you don’t dry it off in time. I recommend you dry your dirt bike as soon as possible when it gets wet. Keep your dirt bike under a cover or a garage to ensure its safety. Knowledge preparation and prudence are key to conquering the rain-soaked trails and embracing this unique experience.
Moreover, dirt bikes are costly and need more care. The more you care for your bike, the more valuable your money will be. If you care for dirt bikes in water, more fun will be with you in the future riding!
FAQs
Can I ride my dirt bike through water or wet places?
Dirt bikes are designed to ride on difficult terrains, even on the water. So, yes! You can ride the dirt bike through the water and get wet. Meanwhile, you may require many precautions and considerations. Therefore, consider factors such as water depth, water flow, riding techniques and preparation of your dirt bike to ride through the water. The dirt bike’s engine may be harmed if the water is high. So be careful while riding in the rain or water.
What should I do when got stuck in the rain while riding?
Control your dirt bike speed, be calm, and anticipate the hazardous situation. Stay your bike’s headlights and tail lights turned on to be visible. Pull over the bike if you can. If the rain continues to be extended, take breaks and find a secure place to be there until the heavy rain is gone. Maintain your bike after the ride in the rain.
Can I ride an electric dirt bike in the rain?
Riding an electric dirt bike in the rain is recommended briefly. But you can do riding an electric motorcycle just for a short time. After the ride, store and dry it immediately. Otherwise, rainwater causes damage like corrosion or rust on it. Electric bikes are more delicate, so be careful about getting rained on an electric bike.
Why use a waterproof motorcycle cover?
Waterproof motorcycle covers are beneficial for repelling water and keeping the dirt bike dry and safe. You can use a motorcycle cover to protect it from rain, snow or other environmental problems. A waterproof bike cover is UV-resistant and maintains the motorcycle’s appearance in its prime condition. However, a motorcycle cover improves the life span of a dirt bike. It’s also a theft deterrent.
What to do after riding a motorcycle in the rain?
After riding in the rain:
- Investigate the motorcycle’s external damage.
- Go forward to clean it with a cleaner or detergent.
- Wipe away the mud from the engine and frames.
- Dry the motorbike with a rag or towel.
- At the end, inspect the electrical components like wiring, connectors and other electrical parts for any sign of damage.
