all good stuff but i'd like to add something about potholes. because we live in florida and it rains like hell when it does, sometimes, the rain water will cover portions of the road. if you're careful, you don't have to worry about hydroplaning but the water also covers up any road imperfections which can at the LEAST cause serious damage to your bike. be careful when you see these "puddles" and avoid them if you can, especially if you're not too familiar with that particular road. i try to remember road conditions on every road i usually take and it's especially helpful when raining. also, you can sort of gauge the "slickness" of the road by dragging your boot on the road when the road is wet but not raining. ride safe everyone.