I didn't ride today because it was raining, tomorrow I leave for Virginia beach and will ride unless a complete down pour. Just changed tires from the dunlop 402 to metzler 880 on a 99 ultra, hope they work well in the rain.
If you tour, you will have to ride in the rain at some point. Always have the gear with me. Have never minded riding in the rain at all. Just slow down and be careful. I also kinda like the way the cagers look at you like you're an idiot..........Come to think about it, I get that look alot!
Of course you ride in the rain, its no big deal. Get a good rainsuit and watch your braking.
As far as getting your bike dirty hell thats the only time mine gets washed is a good rain wash..
A couple weeks ago when I was home on R & R, I was coming home from Myrtle Beach. Got caught in a down pour. The wind was blowing so hard, I was riding at an angle. My wife and the kids were behind me in the truck. When we got home she said I thought you were gonna pull over under the brigde. (no rain gear on). I said I was already soaked, might as well keep riding...lol