by Jess Leong, HaveFunBiking.com
Biking in the fall can present numerous challenges, yet it can also be very gratifying. For some, the bicycle season may be coming to a close. In contrast, many others wish to continue exploring 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 fall tips before heading out.
Fall Bike Ride Tip 1: Layer It Up
Temperature fluctuations 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 that you can easily remove and put back on to find your comfort level of warmth. When layering, a good rule of thumb is that whatever you decide to put on last will be the first thing you’d want to take off!
Pro Tip: Start while the air is still slightly chilly. You’ll warm up as you ride, and the chilliness will dissipate. However, bring an extra layer in case you stop along the way! You want to stay warm when you’re not riding.
Not sure how to layer? 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 a lot of 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, typically 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
Dusk is coming earlier and earlier as the fall season continues. This means the evening intrudes on some great riding opportunities during daylight hours. 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.
Additionally, when times change, it can impact a person’s sleep routine, resulting in 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, given that the 3rd is on a Sunday, which would decrease 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 saving 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 rather throughout the day, whether on the road or on the trail.
You can do this in several ways, depending on your comfort level. Plus, the more you do, the more you increase your visibility.
Wear Light or Colored Clothing
Wearing bright colors will make you stand out. If someone doesn’t see you at first, the colorful attire will catch their attention, making it easier for them to keep track of 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, especially in the mornings or evenings. This way, when the headlights on a car shine on you, you’re immediately recognized.
Add Lights to Your Bike
Did you know it’s the 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 you don’t have to worry about it.
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 concise document available for review regarding bike laws and lighting requirements in Minnesota.
Fall Bike Riding Tip 4: Check Your Tire Pressure and Tires
As discussed earlier, leaves can conceal various items that could puncture your tire. It’s not always avoidable, so it’s essential to check your tires periodically. 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!