I have driven many miles on both motorways and A roads, in good and bad weather.
In general for long distances I prefer motorway driving.
Driving defensively and keeping up with the main traffic flow I feel safer on motorways than A roads where just about anything can happen at any time.
The main thing is do what feels safe for you !
On any road while moving MOST rain just goes over the top - its when you slow down you really get wet and can be painful without a helmet.
AWAYS wear goggles - you do not want an insect hit at any speed.
On long trips I always wear gauntlet gloves - the wind shooting up your right sleeve ( which will probably be exposed) becomes annoying after a while.
