Get your bike rain ready

By Glynda Alves

Does the impending monsoon mean that your motorcycle has to go into hiding? Not at all, says Shirish Kulkarni, chairman of DSK Hyosung. “The rains let bikers enjoy rides in a cool and fresh environment. They just need to follow certain precautions.”

Caring for your bike

Service your bike

Routine servicing and checkup is a must. This should include checking the brakes, brake pads, oil, ensuring proper lubrication, replacing worn out tyres and changing the air filters and engine oil. Also, fine-tune all the electrical wiring.

Take care of the chrome

Use an anti-rust solution and apply it on the components to prevent corrosion. A Teflon coating is a smart idea to protect your bike’s body paint. Also invest in a cover to avoid corrosion.

Control cables

Change the control cables, but before that, lubricate the outer and inner cables so that the oil forms a thin film throughout.

Personal precautions

Gear up

Wear proper riding gear — brighter the better — and helmets.

Watch the road

Water hides the depth of pot holes, oil forms rainbows on the road making it slippery. Keep your bike straight while riding over smooth, slippery surfaces. Avoid riding when there’s lightning.

Master braking

Apply brakes gently. Use the rear brake more often since controlling the bike is tougher if the front wheel slides. Maintain longer braking distance