MONSOON MOTORCYCLING TIPS BY XBHP AND JK TYRE

Here are some tips from xBhp and JK tyre to make your rain rides safer and more enjoyable.

- SANDEEP GOSWAMI

LIQUID sunshine brings out the best and worst of all riders. Riding in the wet requires you to be aware of the low friction conditions that exist between the tyres and the road. This can be dangerous but if you are cautious and aware of the hazards, it is no more dangerous than any other normal day. And it is only through riding in the rain that you become aware of your own capabilities and limitations and those of your bike and its tyres in such weather.

Tyres have grooves in their tread and their purpose is to remove water from under the contact patch. Obviously, if the tyre is worn smooth with no grooves left, water on the road stays trapped under the tyre and it slips. Tyres in good condition with sticky rubber inflated to the recommended pressure go a long way in improving the grip. And JK Tyre Smart Tyre allows you to do just that with the facility to monitor your tyre pressure on your smartphone.

Apart from good tyres, the trick to maintaining traction when riding is smoothness. All transitions i.e. acceleration, braking, gear shifting and turning should be accomplished smoothly. Be gentle in braking and acceleration and follow the widest possible arcs during cornering. Remember road grip is already fighting a losing battle with slippery conditions. Your tyre traction is cut by as much as TWO-THIRDS on wet roads.