What is the safest way to handle riding in the rain or on a wet road?

Wet roads reduce traction, so the rider should slow down, increase following distance, and make all inputs — braking, steering, throttle — smooth and gradual to avoid breaking the tires' grip. Roads are often most slippery during the first few minutes of rain, when water mixes with oil and dust to form a slick film, so extra caution is needed then. The rider should also avoid painted lines, metal surfaces, and the center of the lane where oil drippings collect, and watch for hydroplaning in deep water. Gentle control and reduced speed preserve the limited traction available on wet pavement.