Hazardous Conditions and Special Situations
Reduced traction
Rain, oil, gravel, sand, and wet leaves all cut the grip available for braking and turning, so slow down, increase following distance, and make every input smoother. The first minutes of rain are the slickest, because oil and dust float on the surface. Avoid painted lines, manhole covers, and metal bridge decks when wet. On gravel or sand, keep the bike upright, reduce speed before you reach it, and avoid sudden braking or turning.
Surface features
Cross railroad tracks at close to a right angle, and rise slightly off the seat to absorb the jolt. On grooved pavement or bridge grating, hold a steady line and a steady throttle rather than weaving. In strong crosswinds, lean into the wind and watch for sudden gusts at driveway openings, bridge exits, and when passing or being passed by large trucks.
Night and mechanical surprises
At night, ride so you can stop within the distance your headlight shows; use the high beam when there is no oncoming traffic. If a front tire goes flat, hold the bars firmly, ease off the throttle, and brake gently with the rear. For a wobble, grip the bars without fighting them, ease off the throttle, and avoid hard braking. If the throttle sticks, hit the engine cut-off switch, pull the clutch, and brake.
Traps and rule of thumb
Watch for answers that tell you to brake hard on gravel, swerve on grooved pavement, or speed up to “ride out” a wobble. Rule of thumb: the less grip you have, the less you should ask of the tires.