Riding in rain and standing water
Monsoon waterlogging, wet brakes and chains — where to stop, and what to check after riding through water.
This guidance is general — not checked for any one model. Your bike's exact figures and procedures are in its owner's manual or at an authorised service centre.
When to do it
- Before and after riding in the monsoon or through waterlogged streets
What you need
- Dry cloths
- Chain lube
Step by step
- 1
If you cannot tell how deep the water is, or it nears the middle of the wheel, do not cross; find another way.
Water reaching the silencer or air intake can get into the engine and cause serious damage.
- 2
If you must cross, go slowly in one gear with a steady throttle, and do not stop halfway.
- 3
If the engine stops in the water, do not try to restart it — push it out and have a mechanic look.
- 4
Out of the water, brake gently a few times at low speed somewhere clear to dry the brakes.
The front disc and caliper. Keep oil and sprays off the disc.Photo: Malsa, CC BY-SA 1.0, via Wikimedia Commons - 5
Afterwards dry and lubricate the chain; if a drum brake feels weak, see a mechanic.
A bicycle chain is shown; on a motorcycle, with the engine off and the wheel turned by hand, spray the inner run lightly in the same way.Photo: Alextredz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons - 6
In the rain you need longer to stop: slow down, leave a bigger gap, and take care on painted lines and manhole covers.
Warnings
- Waterlogged roads hide open manholes and potholes — do not ride into water you do not know.
Stop and see a mechanic if
- The engine stopped in the water
- The brakes still feel weak after drying them
Sources
- The owner's manual and service booklet: the only reliable source for your bike's figures and procedures.
- Common wet-weather advice from rider-safety training.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-25