Category Archives: News

Preparing your bike for storage, a check list help protect your gear

by Bill Anderson

Cyclists enjoy a beautiful day riding with a flower garden in the background.

Having enjoyed another summer season of cycling with many great memories, it’s time to think about preparing your bike for winter storage. Unless you plan to pedal your two-wheel steed throughout the winter, wouldn’t it be nice when the temperature warms next spring if you are ready to ride?

Rather than cleaning or tuning up your bike when you should be riding next spring. Or even worse, waiting two to three weeks or more for your bike shop to get it ready for you.

Preparing your bike for storage

When putting your bike away for the winter, there are several things you will want to do to store it properly. Following the helpful tips listed below or taking it to your favorite bike shop will help you avoid future problems and ensure that it will be ready to ride next spring when the weather breaks.

These tips apply whether you’re putting your bike in your basement, garage, or storage unit. Many bike shops now offer winter storage if you don’t have a storage place at home and don’t want to rent an entire storage unit. Just don’t let your bike sit outside.

Bikes left outside over the winter

You would think this wouldn’t need to be mentioned, but visit any college campus in the upper Midwest in February and see dozens of beautiful high-end bikes out suffering in the cold and snow.

In any case, follow these pointers so you are ready to go when the weather warms up next spring:

1. Wipe down the frame and inspect it

Inspecting the frame is important

Use a dry rag and a spritzer bottle filled with water or a light detergent mix to wipe it down while inspecting it. I’m not a fan of wet washing a bike with a water hose, which can create problems if water gets into your components. Be sure to wipe the bike dry to ensure all metal parts don’t rust.

The best way to do this is to take a brush to knock away any chunks of dried-on mud on your frame or wheels. Then, take a damp rag to your bike, wiping it all over to remove any remaining dust or dirt. Also, remove any grease or grime accumulated around your drive train or other areas where lubrication can attract dirt.

2. Inspect your frame

Look for cracks, signs of fatigue

Here’s a bonus hint: Wiping down your bike allows you to inspect the frame thoroughly. While cleaning, look for cracks or metal fatigue, particularly near welded spots on the bottom bracket, which supports much of your weight.

3. Cleaning your drivetrain

Wiping the chain is important

Now is an ideal time to clean and lube the cassette, chain, and crank to eliminate all the crud that may have accumulated over the riding season. Plus, a fresh coat of lubricant will help protect against rust. If you have several thousand miles on the chain or a lot of wear, this is the time to consider replacing it.

4. Lubricate the cables

Apply oil near cable housing and work in

To avoid problems that may pop up in the spring, such as rusting or poor cable performance, take a few minutes to lubricate the cables that control your brakes and derailers. Apply a few drops of light lubricant to a rag and rub it on the exposed cable—lightly work through the cable housing. This will help keep your shifting mechanism in shape while eliminating stress on your cables.

5. Inspect tires, wheels, and brake pads

Tires should be free of cracks

While wiping down your tires, check your wheels for loose or broken spokes by spinning them and looking to see if they still spin true. Ensure your wheels spin straight, with no wobbling from side to side and no rubbing against the brake pads. If your wheels don’t spin straight, it’s probably time to take your bike in for wheel truing.

At the same time, inspect your brake pads for proper alignment and any excessive wear in the pads.

6. Then inflate the tires

Before putting your bike away, inflate your tires fully, especially if you store it on its wheels. If your tires are flat, the bike’s weight presses down through the rims on one spot on the rubber. Over several months, that can cause deterioration of your tire, as the rubber can become distorted and/or the tire can develop a weak spot in the sidewall. If you hang your bike from the ceiling by its wheels, having the recommended pressure in the tires is still good.

7. Wipe down the tires, saddle, and handgrips

A conditioner will keep it soft

Now that you have cleaned and lubed your bike wipe down all the remaining components to prevent any wear or misalignment. Take an optional step that mainly affects the appearance of the bike. Armor- All works well for your tires, rubber handgrips, and seat – if it has a leather, vinyl cover, or another smooth synthetic surface. Products like this are beautifiers and protectants and will give a nice, clean, and shiny appearance while keeping the material soft. This only takes a few extra minutes and will be something you’ll be glad you did in the spring, as your bike will look sharp and ready to go.

8. Remove any batteries or charge to the recommended capacities

Remove any accessories with lead batteries, like front and rear lights, to avoid corrosion from battery acid leaking onto your bike while in storage. If the battery is hard to remove, like some Lithium Ion batteries on electric-assist bikes, charge it to the recommended capacity, generally around 85%. See “How to maintain an E-bike” for more information.

9. Clean out your panniers and trunk bags

If you leave your bike bags on in storage, clean them and wipe them out. Ensure no food items are left inside, as you may find a family of rodents nesting there next spring.

10. Empty water bottles and Camelbaks

Clean and dry the insides of your bottles if you plan to store them on the bike

Take all your water bottles off your bike, or drain them and give them with a light bleach rinse. Dumping out whatever is left in them since the last time you rode and running them through the dishwasher to get them nice and clean is best. When finished, leave the lids off to allow them to dry entirely inside.

If you have a Camelback or backpack canteen water carrier, flush the bladder with a very mild solution of vinegar and water, followed by several rinses of plain hot water, and then leave the lid off to dry.

Now, as you sit in front of the window watching the snow fly, recalling all the memorable rides you had this year, you can rest assured that when the first opportunity to ride next spring comes, you are ready.

A bonus tip

Take your bike in for its annual tune-up now. Many bike shops offer special discounts this time of the year. Plus, you will be ready to ride if we have an early spring.

Tips for bicycling after a heart attack

by Helen Curtiss

Having a heart attack or any other cardiac event can be scary: it can also give you a wakeup call about the life style you are currently leading. Once they’ve experienced a significant health incident, many people realize they are eating the wrong things or leading a lifestyle that doesn’t include enough exercise. Getting into the saddle and taking up cycling is a beautiful form of exercise and can be particularly beneficial to those who have recently experienced significant surgery. Using a bicycle can be as low or high impact as you need and is relatively easy to start. Here are a few tips for bicycling after a heart attack or other cardiac incident.

Take Things Slowly

After getting the go-ahead from your doctor, develop a cycling routine that gradually builds up the miles and pace you want to ride.

After a cardiac incident, it can be tempting to immediately attempt to remedy the reasons for your health scare and begin a vigorous exercise routine. However, this could cause more harm than good by placing too much strain on your heart. Instead, you should begin any new exercise routine, such as starting to cycle, very slowly, and you shouldn’t jump into the saddle until you’ve received a thorough checkup and approval to begin exercising from your physician. Most people can start to exercise between two to four weeks after they have experienced a heart attack. Light to moderate-intensity physical activity is what most physicians recommend after a heart attack, and cycling fits this requirement perfectly. You can begin by taking short journeys on flat routes and increasing the duration and intensity of your daily cycle as time passes.

Share Your New Hobby

Cycling is a beautiful social and sporting activity: it is something you can enjoy with your friends, your spouse, and your family; even the youngest members (grandchildren, perhaps) will enjoy taking part in a communal bike ride. The best way to take up a new hobby such as cycling and stick with it is to make it a habit, and involving your loved ones in this is an easy way to ensure you regularly get on your bike. You can also join one of several local cycling groups and clubs, which is a great way to meet like-minded people and share your passion for your new hobby. Another great way to ensure that you cycle regularly and stick with your newfound hobby is to use your bike as your everyday transport; if it’s achievable, why not cycle to work or your local grocery store? This will ensure you achieve your recommended 30 minutes of exercise daily while giving you a platform to improve your cycling skills and build your confidence in the saddle.

Don’t Worry About Your Gear

Finding a bike that fits you and the type of riding you plan will make your daily biking routine much more enjoyable.

Cycling can be an expensive sport: certainly, competitive cyclists spend a large amount of money on their bikes, their kit, and their other riding equipment. If you find that you are joining a cycling club and begin taking part in road races or charity bike rides, you may want to upgrade your cycle and invest in a new bike. However, any bike will do when you start or just want to cycle to and from work to get a little exercise. There’s no need to worry about your bike or how it looks: just jump in the saddle and enjoy the ride.

You’re Never Too Old

Many people are concerned once they have experienced a heart attack that, they’re too old to take up an active exercise such as cycling and that it may be detrimental to their health. Leading a sedentary lifestyle can be dangerous and can leave you feeling sluggish with high risks of suffering from serious illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes. While exercising regularly may carry minor risks, such as pulling or straining a muscle or sustaining minor cuts and scrapes if you fall, the risks associated with not exercising are far more significant. So jump in that saddle, get on your bike, and experience the joy that arises when you experience the freedom of a fantastic bike ride.

Helen Curtiss is a U.S.-based writer and editor who initially worked in the healthcare sector, helping people with nutrition and fitness. When she became a mom, she took a step back and decided to start a career in freelancing so she could raise her kids.

Editors note;

If your new exercise program is interrupted for a few days (due to illness, vacation, or bad weather, for example), ease back into the routine. Begin with a reduced level of activity and gradually increase it until you’re back where you started. And have fun!

Biking and birding fun in the Minnesota River bottoms

Here, you will find the MN River Bottoms Trail System towards the southern edge of Bloomington, a short distance from the Mall of America. It is the perfect place for a great wildlife adventure. It is also a fun place to bike, hike, and watch the annual fall migration, where you can observe over 250 species of birds. I regularly use the trailhead near the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge (See flag #4 below), overlooking Long Meadow Lake. Here, at the trailhead, you can easily view the marsch land of Long Meadow Lake, which is full of waterfowl activity.

You can also ride your bike on the trail, grab your walking stick, and use some of the other designated hiking trails to find more observation points.

Several viewing stations are available for waterfowl sightings

The Minnesota River Valley provides essential habitat for birds flying south. Look for waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds like white-throated sparrows, yellow-rumpled warblers, and American robins. Shorebirds, including sandpipers and plovers, can still be spotted in the early fall.

Looking to the west from the Old Cedar Bridge

The trails on the north side of the lake, both east and west, are for hiking only. If you prefer single-track trails for mountain biking or hiking, you must follow the paved trail south over the bridge and towards the river. The trail also goes east and west at the river’s edge, giving you many observation points between the meadows and the Minnesota River. This trail is also safe for hybrid bikes; stay on the main trail.

The Bloomington River bottom trails

A ride or hike can be fun and as challenging as you want if you decide to leave the main path. The trail is made of heavy soil with a mix of dried river debris. When dry, it may be smooth riding. However, Mother Nature’s unpredictability can quickly change the conditions of the trails here, adding a few potholes you will have to circumvent.

It’s Friday and time to ride off on another weekend of fun taking in that next bike adventure that maybe includes testing out a fat bike ride. — The Minnesota River Bottoms is not only a great place to ride a fat bike.

For most of your ride or hike, the trail parallels the river, with a few trails leading you away around several backwater waterfowl sanctuaries. A part of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, from the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge, this wilderness area is about a mile from the Mall of America.

Looking to the east from the Old Cedar Bridge

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge highlights

From the Minnesota Autobon Society, here is a Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge map with several essential fall viewing locations along the river that you may want to check out.

Flag 1—At Fort Snelling State Park, watch for Bald Eagles, Broad-winged Hawks, Cooper Hawks, and many other migratory birds gathering.

Flag 2 – At the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center, see over 250 species of birds, including Bald Eagles.

Flag 4 – Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge at the old Cedar Bridge overlooking Long Meadow Lake. From the bike/ped bridge or viewing dock, you have plenty of room to spot warblers and several species of waterfowl.

Fall, winter, spring, or summer plenty of wildlife to see

Escape to nature throughout the year in Bloomington, MN.

Another viewing spot shows some Blue Heron’s standing on a submerged tree

Why the trail is fun throughout the year

Winter fat bike fun is back in the upper Midwest as this biker takes a break for this photo opp. — Winter biking is always fun on the riverbottom trail

Also, it is common to see Bald eagles, owls, and hawks throughout the year.

When you are not exploring the banks of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers and need a break from the outdoors, there are plenty of fun options to keep your visit exciting in Bloomington. Check out more here.

The 2024 e-bike contest at HaveFunBiking has a winner

Congratulations to Liz Wilkinson, our E-bike contest winner from St. Paul, MN!

We are happy to announce that Liz’s e-mail was drawn from our pool of e-database contestants. We enjoyed meeting her at Pedego in Mendota Heights and giving her the keys to the new Avenue E-bike from our 2024 Bike/Hike Guide campaign. Seeing her enthusiasm and plans for using the bike was refreshing. Liz is excited about having her new electric-assist e-bike to commute to work. Her route will be easier with the many hilly streets and trails along the Mississippi River bluffs. Thanks to everyone who registered to win. Stay tuned for another e-bike contest in 2025,

About the e-bike contest bicycle.

The Pedego Avenue is a beautifully designed electric bike, perfect for urban riding or commuting. Its step-thru frame makes it easy to mount and dismount. Add the powerful 500 48V 14ah power system with a fully integrated battery, and you have a fun mode of transportation. It is excellent for climbing those hills and makes most commutes sweat-free.

Everyone’s favorite bike media company is planning for 2025

HaveFunBiking (HFB), started in 2004, shares news and information on outdoor activities. We are entering our 16th year of producing the print and digital Bike/Hike Guide. Check back regularly as we prepare the 2025 edition. The guide has fun places to ride, helpful tips, and our next e-bike giveaway. When buying an e-bike, check “Helpful tips to consider before buying an E-bike.”

Five helpful tips for a memorable fall bike ride

by Jess Leong, HaveFunBiking.com

Bike riding in the fall can come with many challenges and, at the same time, be very gratifying. For some, the bicycle season may be winding down. In contrast, many others wish to continue to explore the incredible autumn landscape on their favorite mode of transportation, the bike. Pedaling along the colorful autumn roads or trails is so breathtaking that I will admit that fall bike riding is one of my favorite times to ride. Not too hot, not too cold, and there are fewer insects once the first frost hits.

If you plan to ride and enjoy the colorful foliage this fall, check out these top tips before heading out.

Fall Bike Ride Tip 1: Layer It Up

For fall bike riding layering your clothing is key.

For fall bike riding, layering your clothing is critical.

The temperature fluctuation can be confusing when you want to get dressed and go biking. The morning thermometer can show temperatures like 47 or 48 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, the temperature could be in the low to mid-70s by the afternoon. This year, the 80s! The best way to combat this is by wearing multiple layers you can easily remove and put back to find your comfort level of warmth. When layering, a good rule of thumb is whatever you decide to put on last will be the first thing you’d want to take off!

Pro Tip: Start while still slightly chilly. You’ll warm up as you ride, and that chilliness will go away. However, bring an extra layer in case you stop along the way! You want to stay warm when you’re not riding.

Not sure what to do for layering? Check out our article about how to layer, why it’s beneficial, and what to wear.

Fall Bike Riding Tip 2: Beware of Wet Leaf Piles

The falling leaves are gorgeous, and leaf piles can be fun. However, a wet, crunchy leaf pile can be a hazard when riding your bike through it. Not only can water splash upwards onto your bike and legs, but the bike tires can slip on the leaves. When leaves are wet, they become slick or slippery. With a standard bike tire normally thinner, it has less coverage area for surface tension. If the leaves you are riding over easily move around, a bike can slip out from under you or get stuck in the gears and spokes.

Luckily, this is less of a problem if you have a fat or mountain bike. The larger tires add more traction to the surface, making them less likely to slip. Even with the lesser likelihood of slipping, caution should still be used when riding through leaves.

Fall Bike Riding Tip 3: Stay Visible

For fall bike riding high visible clothing and saddle bag gear are easier for motorists to see.

For fall bike riding, high-visible clothing and saddle bag gear are more accessible for motorists.

Dusk is coming earlier and earlier as the fall season continues. This means the evening intrudes on some great riding opportunities in the daylight. In contrast, some days will be saved temporarily when we fall backward an hour on Sunday, November 3rd, this year. Time changes can still negatively affect cyclists.

Also, when times change, it can affect a person’s sleeping routine, leading to a lack of sleep. This sleep deprivation may make people less attentive while driving or riding a bike. You would think that people would sleep in, being the 3rd is on a Sunday, decreasing the number of accidents. However, cyclists and other pedestrians should be aware and extra cautious for the next few days.

Why? Because people need time to adjust to the time change. According to a study done in Sleep Medicine and The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, there has been a significant increase in fatal accidents following the changes in daylight savings time when it occurs on a Sunday or Monday.

This means that staying visible is even more critical than usual. This isn’t limited to the morning but throughout the day, whether on the road or trail.

You can do this in several ways, depending on what you are comfortable doing. Plus, the more you do, the more you increase your visibility.

Wear Light or Neon Colored Clothing

Wearing bright colors will make you stand out. If someone doesn’t see you begin with, the color will catch their attention, and they will find it easier to keep tabs on where you are. On the other hand, wearing dark colors isn’t recommended. Dark colors can blend into the dark and reduce your visibility. Natural dyes can also blend you into the background or sidelines, making you less visible.

Wear Reflective Clothing

Reflective clothing is a must when cycling early before much daylight or evenings. This way, when the headlights on a car shine on you, you’re immediately recognized.

Add Lights to Your Bike

For fall bike riding add bike light front and back to be more noticeable.

Add bike light front and back for fall bike riding to be more noticeable.

Did you know it’s a law to have lights on your bike? You have to do it, but you should do it because you want to protect yourself and stay safe.

It’s important to note that lights aren’t required for daytime riding. However, since we never know when it might get dark out, and we can’t plan for all those times when we ride late at night, it’s essential to have a light handy. If it’s already attached to your bike, then it’s something you don’t have to worry about!

Unfortunately, there are no excuses if you get pulled over by a police officer for riding in dark conditions without one. Every state might have slightly different bike-light laws (with many similarities). The Department of Transportation has a condensed document to review for bike laws and more about lighting here in Minnesota.

Fall Bike Riding Tip 4: Check Your Tire Pressure and Tires

As discussed earlier, leaves can hide different items that can puncture your tire. It’s not always avoidable, so you must check your tires occasionally. This shouldn’t be limited to the fall and winter but should be checked every time before you begin riding. Doing this allows you to catch any problems sooner rather than later.

Another thing to check is tire pressure. While fall isn’t as cold as winter, the cold can still alter the tire pressure. So, checking the tire pressure before each ride is best.

Fall Bike Riding Tip 5: The Usual Tools

Remember to bring the essential repair tools for your bike adventures! If anything happens, you will want to ensure you have all the necessary supplies to fix it. To know these, check out our article about the tools you should have for any ride.

With these tips, you’re sure to have a great and safe extended season as you continue to ride your bike through autumn.

Keep safe, have fun, and ride on!

Fall bike/birding options in the Willmar Lakes Area

Buss Lowthian, HaveFunBiking.com

Head west of the Twin Cities, and before you know it, you will be greeted by small-town charm. Here, you will find several bike/birding opportunities along the sprawling countryside in the Willmar Lakes Area. It may not seem like much to the naked eye, but the area knows how to show guests a great time. Especially when the leaves begin to change, and birds gather.

With fall colors appearing and waterfowl migration soon approaching, it’s a particular time to visit the Willmar Lakes Area. Allowing cyclists plenty of great outdoor memories on the trails and bike-friendly roads that will last a lifetime.

Biking opportunities in the Willmar Lakes Area

The Willmar Lakes Area is the perfect place to visit anytime of the year for a weekend bike getaway.

The Willmar Lakes Area is the perfect bike getaway to visit any time of the year.

Getting around on your bike in Willmar is more than encouraging. Awarded the Bike Friendly Bronze status by the League of American Cyclists, the community has redesigned its streets and inner city trails to make it easy to pedal around and explore the area’s attractions and points of interest.

While biking, this is also an excellent area for bird enthusiasts. Critical locations in Kandiyohi County include Sibley State Park, Robbins Island Regional Park, Bergquist Wildlife Area, and the Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center.

Sibley State Park is one of the most popular areas, so bring binoculars. While biking the trails around the park, you have a chance to see over 200 different species of birds that nest or migrate here. And with the Glacial Trail, it is easy to get out to the park, by bike, from your hotel room in the Willmar Lakes Area.

Glacial Lakes State Trail

Built on a former Burlington Northern railroad line, the trail is generally level and wheelchair accessible. The trail is paved for 22 miles between Willmar, Spicer, New London, Hawick, and the Kandiyohi/Stearns County line. This multi-use bike corridor offers many opportunities to look at late-blooming wildflowers and wildlife.

Bring the binoculars along, for some of the birds sittings along the trail you may see!

Bring the binoculars along, for some birds sittings along the trail you may see!

Getting to Sibley State Park from the Glacial Lakes State trailhead? From New London, take the county road west out of town on the paved bike lane for approximately 4-miles to the park.

Sibley State Park and Mount Tom

Once you get there riding your bike, hike to the top of Mount Tom. It’s one of my favorite high points in a 50-mile radius to view the area’s patchwork of forest, farmland, prairie knolls, and lakes. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing on Lake Andrew through the summer. With an interpretive program open year-round, birding is another activity you can enjoy here.

In the park, nearly two miles of paved trails link Lakeview Campground and the Interpretive Center. With a slight elevation change, another favorite is the Pond View Trail loop. It offers another perspective on the area.

Other parks and trails

Enjoy the miles of scenic paved trails in the prairie lands of the Willmar Lakes Area.

Willmar and the surrounding area make it easy for everyone to enjoy the outdoors. With several parks offering recreational activities, those who visit with their bike will find many trails to pedal through, including Bergquist Park, Ramblewood Park, Rau Park (Scott Park), Thompson Park, and Swansson Park in Willmar. You can also take on the trails at Robbins Island Park and Green Lake County Parks.

Road biking opportunities

There is also plenty of bike-friendly roads in Kandiyohi County. See the county map here to help you navigate the area.

More about the bike-friendly Willmar Lakes Area

Willmar also has a Ride Share program where you can find different spots throughout town to rent a bike. Find out here how residents and visitors alike can take advantage of these bikes to access the many recreational destinations throughout the area.

When you are not riding, the trails and roads in Kandiyohi County the area offers plenty of indoor attractions when you want to relax and places to stay. Along with several museums covering different parts of the area’s Minnesota history, After your ride covering the birding haunts, enjoy a refreshing local beer or taste of local wine as you take a break from the outdoor activities in this scenic prairie lakes area. See our At-A-Glance list here for more information.

What to wear for fall bike riding

by Jess Leong, HaveFunBiking.com

Fall bike riding is a gorgeous time to get on your two-wheel steed and put the pedal to the medal – or maybe just the pedal. The crisp autumn air makes breathing easy, and heat stroke isn’t an issue without a hot sun. With the gorgeous hues of oranges, yellows, and browns that color the landscape, fall bike riding is arguably the best.

Rather than putting a bike in storage early due to the fluctuation in weather, here’s the answer you’re looking for. To conquer this fall problem, wear layers. While this might seem obvious, the key lies in correctly layering appropriate clothing. If correctly done, it can optimize comfort for the rider. Not only that, but it can also increase the ability of each layer to work to maximize moisture and temperature regulation.

Fall bike riding base layer

Your base layer should have excellent moisture and wicking ability to keep your body dry. Also, opt for something you’d wear if it were to get on the warmer side compared to the colder side for this layer. For example, wear a short-sleeved jersey, undershirt, and arm warmers compared to a long-sleeved jersey or shirt. If it gets too warm, you can only do so much with long sleeves, whereas you can always take off the arm warmers if you become too toasty.

For fall bike riding, at temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, knees should always be covered.

For fall bike riding, knees should always be covered at temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

For your bottoms, keep up with this same principle. Realize that your legs will warm up quickly while pedaling. Whether you keep them bare by wearing shorts or your usual spring/summer attire or long knickers, it’s good to layer these items. Leg warmers are also a good thing to use if you have them. Also, they can quickly come off and be put away when the temperature rises.

Remember, knees should always be covered at temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Even if they warm up during the ride, with wind, it’s best to keep them protected from the cold.

Top Layers

The top layers are arguably the most essential layers you need to choose. This is because these are the layers that you’ll remove to try to reach that ideal temperature. There are many different potential items that you can layer over the base layer, but the rule of layering for fall weather applies. The Rule: Layer smartly. Remember that the last item you’re putting on should be the one you’d want to take off first.

Clothing items to wear for fall bike riding.

Arm warmers are great clothing items for fall bike riding if you have them.

We like the idea of having a long-sleeved jersey or shirt that can help keep the arms warm, whether that ends up over or under-arm warmers (if you decide to use them). A windbreaker can be exceptionally helpful. Even if no gales of wind are going through the area, biking moves you through the air and produces a ‘wind’ that can chill you. Over the long sleeves, we’d recommend a jacket – heavy or lighter, depending on you and the weather. Other layers can be added as well.

Other Important Areas – Head, Fingers, and Feet

Today, many different accessories and products can help keep the other parts of your body warm, keeping you happy and riding longer. Scarves, earmuffs, full-fingered biking gloves, cycling caps, and shoe covers to reduce cold air into the shoe – these are all things that you can consider adding to your list.

Depending on the outdoor temperature, fingered gloves may be more desirable for fall bike riding.

Neck Up

Scarves help ensure cold air doesn’t sneak into your jacket where you don’t want it – plus, it keeps your neck and can keep part of your face warm!

Riding is hard when your ears are cold and aching. This is where earmuffs, or a hat with earflaps, are welcome. It’s something you won’t regret once out biking, especially when it gets colder or the wind picks up!

Your head tends to be overlooked when going out to bike. While the helmet can feel warm while biking, when the temperature drops more, sometimes a little more is needed to keep your scalp warm. Today, many helmets allow some leeway for biking caps or headbands to help keep the rider’s head warm.

Hands and Fingers

Many bikers have fingerless cycling gloves, but full-fingered biking gloves are a must when it comes to colder weather. When your fingers are frozen, stiff, and numb, you can lose your grip and find it difficult – if not near impossible – to shift gear. Since this is so dangerous for the rider, we highly recommend getting a good pair of full-fingered biking gloves.

Feet and Toes

Shoe covers aren’t generally necessary until the temperature drops – usually below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Socks made of wool have excellent breathability and warmth, but even so, your toes can get chilled when the wind picks up. Shoe covers can help keep the wind out from those breathable athletic shoes many wear in the summer.

Again, if you’re unsure how to layer, remember that the last article of clothing you put on should be the first item you’ll want to take off.

No mater what your choice in clothing items to wear for fall bike riding, get out and have fun.

No matter your choice of clothing items for fall bike riding, get out and have fun.

It might take a few tries to get this right. With so many different material types, combinations, and conditions to factor in, it takes a few trial-and-error runs to find the order to layer on clothing. However, once you figure it out, it’s easy sailing! Then, you can reach your perfect temperature and adjust whenever needed during your bike ride.

HaveFun and ride on!

Jess Leong is a writer for HaveFunBiking.com.

Fall adventures, biking and hiking Albert Lea

by Andrew Ellis

One of my favorite fall Adventures is visiting Albert Lea, Minnesota. It is a one-tank getaway that offers a beautiful bike route around Fountain Lake. Connecting to the Blazing Star State Trail is also easy for more exploring. Another option is to follow one of the routes from the annual bike ride called Rock n’ Roll the Lakes. The ride usually happens on the second Saturday in August and offers cyclists of all abilities several fun, scenic route options for that #NextBikeAdventure!

Fall adventures in bike-friendly Albert Lea

It’s less than a two-hour drive down Interstate 35 from Minneapolis. After passing the I-90 crossroad, pull into Albert Lea and prepare for outdoor fun. Known as the Land Between the Lakes, the city sits between Fountain Lake and Albert Lea Lake. It is a prime destination for soaking in the rays and paddling through the summer months. But now that fall is here, it is still an excellent destination for biking and hiking. Getting around on your bike from several lodging options is easy with the city’s low-traffic bike lanes and trails. After checking in at one of the hotels, riding around this southern Minnesota community is exciting, with the fall colors soon to appear.

Touring around Albert Lea Lake

The homes along the lake route are very picturesque. — The homes along the Fountain Lake route are very picturesque.

In town, it is recommended to tour Fountain Lake clockwise. This route is reminiscent of riding around Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis. With beautifully landscaped lawns along the fingering shoreline, a ride around the lake is very picturesque. This popular route is about eight and a half miles around, using trails and quiet residential streets.

After returning to the downtown area of Albert Lea, you will find many options for lunch. Then, it’s time to ride on the paved Blazing Star State Trail to Myre-Big Island State Park.

Myre-Big Island State Park and the Blazing Star State Trail

The Blazing Star State Trail is over six miles from Albert Lea to the State Park. — Getting to the State Park on the Blazing Star State Trail is easy.

In Myre-Big Island State Park, you will find hiking trails, a mountain bike trail system, and a paved trail for cyclists of all skill levels to enjoy. The park offers about seven miles of wide grass trails in three loops, strung alongside the State trail for mountain bikers. The Blazing Star State Trail is paved and runs from the edge of the downtown area, approximately six miles to the State Park.

Both trail systems meander through the open prairie meadows with some young woodland near Lake Albert Lea throughout the park. Nice rolling hills make for a surprisingly good workout, and the park is also an excellent birding spot.

Road Biking Opportunities

Exploring the area on a bike is easy, too. You can use the roads to navigate both around town and rural routes throughout southern Minnesota. There’s even a dedicated bike lane to get you in and out of town safely. From past Rock n’ Roll the Lakes events, here are the printable maps for the 10-mile loop option and the 30/50-mile loop option for your enjoyment.

More about Albert Lea

The bike route around Albert Lea Lake id reminiscent of the Lake of the Isles. — The bike route around Albert Lea Lake is reminiscent of the Lake of the Isles.

When you need a break from the outdoors, there’s plenty to keep your exciting adventure going. There are locally-owned shops and one-of-a-kind restaurants, and the area’s history will top off your bike or hike adventure. Check out more here and enjoy Albert Lea in the fall.

Bike destinations and peak fall color riding in the Upper Midwest

With fall color officially peaking in just a month, don’t rush to put that bike away too soon! When the tree foliage begins to change, first in Minnesota and then in Iowa, using the HaveFunBiking guides and the state DNR websites, it’s easy to expand your recreational riding through October. As our summer bike adventures drift into fond memories, cyclists and hikers alike will have a colorful blaze of options ahead. Picture-perfect adventures with warm days, cool nights, low humidity, few insects, and trees offering brilliant autumn colors.

Enjoying the colorful trees along the trail as they get close to peak.

Riders enjoy the colorful trees along the trail as they reach their peak.

Fall color riding in Minnesota

Using a copy of the Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide and the MN DNR fall color pages will allow you to match up to a fall experience you won’t soon forget. If you didn’t have a chance to pick up a printed copy of the MN Bike/Hike Guide, here it is online. Offering you bike maps and fun events for fall exploring.

Enjoying the trails doing some fall color riding.

Trail riding in the fall amongst tree-lined paths is inviting.

As the aspen, oaks, and maples burst with color, consider bookmarking these two websites and plan your fall biking adventure. Find more Minnesota fall riding information here.

Fall Color Riding in Iowa

Fall color riding on a bike-friendly road.

As the brilliant colors fade in Minnesota, Iowa is the place in October that will showcase most of its peak colors. Using a copy of the Iowa Bike/Hike Guide and the IA DNR fall color pages will allow you some more fall experiences you won’t soon forget.

Fall color riding Wisconsin

Though we don’t have a Wisconsin Bike Guide, here are links to Wisconsin’s Bicycle routes and fall color report page.

Have fun making some fall-color memories.

Standard hybrid bikes are still popular for casual riding

by John Brown

If e-bikes are out of your price range, or you just want a low-tech ride, let’s look at the basics. Trail bikes, fitness bikes, hybrid bikes, and dual-sport bikes all fall into the same category of bicycles. Although these bikes all occupy the same category, they have very different uses. Read on to find out what bike will fit your needs best.

Before buying one of many hybrid bikes, determine where you want to ride

Road, trail, or offroad.

Road riding options

Thanks to bicycle-conscious city planners and influential cycling groups, paved surfaces are more inviting to cyclists than ever before. Bike lanes on city roads, bike paths on retired rail lines, and dedicated cycling trails are just a few of the options open for paved riding. Because of these options, many higher-end bicycles are available for paved riding, specifically for gravel, racing, and touring.

Bikes for path/trail riding

By far, path and trail riders are the largest segment of casual cyclists. This is due to the vast availability of riding options. Because of these options, normally with fatter tires and flat handlebars, these bikes are designed to ride comfortably and efficiently.

Bikes for off-road riding

A newly emerging category is casual off-road riding. For this reason, many bicycle manufacturers have developed products to allow riders to enjoy single track trails comfortably. These bikes are similar to path/trail bikes but usually include tires with more knobs and suspension.

How frequently do you plan on riding?

The cost of a bicycle can range from around $300 up to tens of thousands of dollars. The most basic models use less durable materials like plastics than metals in the shifting components and mild steel rather than stronger alloys for the drivetrain and cockpit. As the prices increase, stronger materials replace less durable materials, lending to a bicycle that will hold up better for frequent use. Consequently, at a certain price (different for every category of a bike), the durability doesn’t increase. Instead, the weight begins to decrease. A lighter bicycle is easier to control and accelerate (making for a more enjoyable ride). Determining how frequently you intend to ride and weighing that against the bikes you are looking at will ensure you get the right bike for your needs.

Bike features

Disc brakes vs. rim brakes

Rim brakes work by two rubber pads squeezing the aluminum rim of your wheel. They are inexpensive, functional, and lightweight. When conditions are good, they work incredibly well. Disc brakes use hardened semi-metallic pads to squeeze a hardened steel rotor. Disc brakes produce an enormous amount of friction, and that friction can overcome poor conditions. To summarize, both brakes work, but disc brakes work better in poor conditions.

Suspension vs. no suspension

Bikes that go off-road typically use suspension forks to silence the chatter of an unpaved path, dirt road, or trail. Bikes with rigid forks tend to handle better because they are laterally stiffer and, due to the lack of moving parts, lighter.

Wheel size

26″ x 1.75 and 700×37

In this category, you will find smaller wheels and larger ones. The smaller wheels are usually 26” in diameter and around 2 inches wide. The larger wheels are sized out at 700 c (roughly 28″ in diameter) and usually are between 28 and 42 millimeters wide.

Differences

Once you have decided where and how often you want to ride and learned about some of the features, it’s time to learn more about the differences between the bikes.

Hybrid Bikes

Hybrid bicycles, at one point, were the only bikes in this category. They get their names because they were initially a hybrid of a mountain and road bike. Today, a hybrid is a great bike for fun and fitness. They usually incorporate suspension forks to smooth out the road. Most types use a tire that is 30-40 mm wide and well suited to gravel roads, rails to trails, or paved roads. If you are looking for the most comfortable ride across the largest segment of conditions, a hybrid is the right choice.

Fitness bikes

Fitness bikes share many features with hybrids, including similar wheel sizes, riding positions, and gearing. Where they differ is that hybrids incorporate many features to add comfort, while fitness bikes focus on efficiency and lightweight. If you are the type of rider who wants to get a great workout and enjoy your neighborhood or local bike path, a fitness bike is the right choice.

Dual Sport bikes

Dual sport bikes are a new and quickly growing segment of this category. The sport bike is similar to the hybrid in that it uses suspension. Where it differs from a hybrid is that they are designed for off-road use. By changing the rider position, incorporating wider tires, and using disc brakes, these bikes excel on bike trails that are a bit more technical. If your adventure takes you off the beaten path, dual sport bikes are the tool of choice.

How to choose

Paramount to buying the right bike is trying them. Go to a bike shop and start with a bike that fits you correctly. Take it for a good 10-15 minute ride to see how it handles. Ride it on hills and some paths if possible. Next, try some other models that use different features. Test riding will quickly highlight the benefits of disc brakes, suspension, and tire sizes. Once you feel comfortable on a few bikes, try them back to back and figure out which is the right fit for you. You may have to visit a couple of additional bike shops that carry different brands to find the one for you.

Check out the latest styles for 2024

Thanks to the latest reviews from 29 experts at BikeRide.com, see 64 of the best hybrid bikes to consider when buying your next bike.

About John Brown, the author

As a lifelong cyclist and consummate tinkerer, John operates Browns Bicycle in Richfield, MN. It all started for him in grade school when the bike bug bit him, and today, the bicycle fever is still there. Now, and over the past thirty years, he has worked at every level in the bike industry. Starting, like most, sweeping floors and learning anything he could about bikes. He eventually graduated as a service manager and then as a store manager. Through the years, he has spent extensive time designing and sourcing bicycles and parts for some of the largest bike companies in the world. All the while focusing on helping as many people as possible enjoy the love of riding a bike. In that pursuit, he has taught classes (both scheduled and impromptu) on all things bikes. John also believes in helping every rider attain their optimal fit on the bike of their dreams. Please feel free to stop in any time and talk about bikes, fit, and parts, or just share your latest ride. You can also see John’s tricks and tips on the Brown Bicycle Facebook Page.