Attitude adjuster
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You will encounter rain - it's how you deal with it that makes the difference (pic: Sirotti)
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Kitting out properly is the easiest way to ensure your ride doesn't become a wet and miserable one (Pic: Wiggle)
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Ass Savers are lightweight, easy to store and will offer some protection against spray from slick roads
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Continental 25mm Competition Pro tyres are becoming a common sight in the professional peloton, with the wider rubber said to improve comfort and aerodynamics - and it also offers more grip
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Knock back your speed on descents and corners (pic: Sirotti)
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If Colombia's Nairo Quintana can ride through the rain, riders in the UK have no excuse (pic: Sirotti)
Attitude adjuster
My final tip concerns attitude: riding in the wet can be great fun if you’re kitted out well and have your head ‘right’ before you set off.
I was once told that “skin is waterproof”, but I prefer to avoid testing this maxim by wearing suitable clothing. If you’re warm and dry, let the weather do its worst.
When you’re in the saddle, back off a bit from your fastest pace in the corners, keep a weather eye for the tell-tale signs of an oily residue on the road surface, and you should remain upright and fine.
I find that once I’m off of the sofa and out on the bike, conditions are never as bad as I’d imagined.
You should return home full of beans [or more likely, coffee and cake – Ed] having been out when others were at home, and as everyone knows, that is worth double points*.
*Not redeemable at your local bike shop!