Can motorcycles be exposed to rain? What happens if they get wet?
2 Answers
It is best not to expose motorcycles to rain. However, getting a little wet is not a big issue, but it is advisable to have a rain cover ready to protect the important components. After getting wet, place the motorcycle in a ventilated area to dry, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight. This is because plastic and metal parts of motorcycles can easily age, discolor, and rust when exposed to sun and rain. Below are some motorcycle maintenance tips: Cleaning: Wash the motorcycle when it gets dirty or after being exposed to rain, as rainwater is acidic and highly corrosive to metal and plastic. After washing, apply a layer of wax to help resist acid rain and sun damage. Engine maintenance: At 6,000 kilometers on the odometer, which is during the normal riding phase when changing to the second bottle of semi-synthetic oil, add an anti-wear agent to extend the engine's lifespan and improve the motorcycle's performance.
Actually, my little motorcycle often gets caught in the rain. At first, I didn't pay much attention, but later I noticed a slight squeaking sound when turning the handlebars after getting wet. The mechanic said rainwater can seep into bearings, chains, and other parts, which may rust and seize up over time. Especially exposed wire harness connectors—getting soaked too often might cause short circuits, and I've had issues with turn signals before. The biggest fear is water getting into the air filter; if the engine inhales moisture, it could be a serious problem. Now, if I know rain is coming, I try to cover it with a bike cover. If it does get wet, I dry the dashboard, keyhole, and other areas with a dry cloth, and I also oil the chain for maintenance.
