When you commute or go to school by bicycle, the rain problem is something you absolutely cannot avoid.

It's a natural phenomenon, so it rains on some days.

Deciding not to ride your bike on rainy days is one option, but then you'll have many days when you can't ride, especially during the rainy season.

Let's consider measures for rainy days.

The option of not riding on rainy days

Recently, weather forecasts seem to have improved in accuracy, and it is said that you can even know the weather five minutes in advance.

This means you can decide "I won't ride my bike today" in the morning.

However, during the rainy season, you'll hardly be able to ride your bike at all.

While "taking the train on rainy days" isn't a bad idea, the commute/school time differs between cycling and taking the train.

If you decide whether to bike or train only after waking up, you won't be able to sleep late.

There are ways to go by bicycle even on rainy days, so please check the precautions as well.

Precautions for rainy days

On rainy days, the road surface is naturally wet.

Drain covers and manhole covers on the roadside are made of metal.

They become slippery when wet.

Roads scattered with sand are also very dangerous.

It's also important to note that it's darker compared to sunny days.

Not only is your own visibility poor, but so is the visibility from cars.

Absolutely essential items for rainy days

If you're going to ride a bicycle on a rainy day, there are several essential items.

Let me introduce them to you.

• Mudguards

On rainy days, mudguards are absolutely essential.

Some bicycles don't have mudguards, but if you ride them in the rain, your back will get a vertical stripe of

mud.

Mud splashed up by the rear wheel will fly onto your back.

By the way, mud splashed up by the front wheel will fly towards your face, so this also requires caution.

• Raincoat

On rainy days, a raincoat is necessary.

It's also called "kappa."

With a raincoat, you can ride your bicycle even on rainy days.

However, as for staying dry, you'll eventually get wet from sweat, so it probably depends on the intensity of the rain.

People who sweat a lot need to be careful.

In addition to a raincoat, make sure to carry a towel.

Raincoats come in various types, such as those separated into a jacket and trousers, or cape-like types to throw over, so there are preferences, and types that suit or don't suit bicycles. Please choose one while imagining using it.

• Lights

You are legally required to have lights on at all times, but lights are especially necessary on rainy days.

More than for improving your own visibility, the main purpose is to make your presence known to surrounding vehicles.

Rainy days are dark, making it harder for cars and other vehicles to spot you.

Lights and reflectors can make you a little easier to see.

Summary

On rainy days, unlike sunny days, visibility is poor, and it can be difficult to keep your eyes open due to the rain.

Rain measures like raincoats can help, but more frightening than getting wet is an accident.

Take preventative measures, such as turning on your lights, to make it easier for cars and other vehicles to spot you.