Fall brings with it crisp air and a rich change of colors. From deep reds to burnt oranges, it is undoubtedly one of the most striking seasons here in Ohio. With all it’s beauty, it’s no wonder that fall serves as one of the most favored seasons for riders.
Here are our top 5 tips to make the most of your fall riding:
1) DRESS FOR A TEMP DROP Evening temperatures drop much more drastically in the fall. What was a 70 degree ride when you left your house at 4:30PM could easily be a 45 degree ride on your way home hours later. Plan ahead and pack warm gear to keep you comfortable!
2) SLIPPERY DISTRACTIONS The leaves pose two potential threats for riders: they’re both a beautiful distraction and can prove deadly when they accumulate on the road. In the fall, drivers and riders alike can find themselves distracted by the beautiful scenery that the autumn season brings us. Want to soak in the view? Stop and pull over to a safe spot where you and your bike can easily be seen. Be extra vigilant in picturesque settings where drivers may be more prone to have their eyes on the tree-lines rather than the road. The leaves on the ground can prove dangerous, too. Dry leaves can cover potholes or other potential road hazards, and wet leaves can make for a very slick pavement surface.
3) STAY SAFE IN SIGHT Late-afternoon rides now more easily creep into nightfall, thus reducing visibility. When at the height of summer there was still daylight until 9PM, fall serves as a harsh reminder of the winter ahead with sunsets occurring in the 6 o’clock hour. With the sun being lower in the sky, there’s increased glare during peak driving and riding hours. Be mindful of these seasonal transitions and plan accordingly.
4) OH, DEER! Increased deer activity in the fall means increased risk for you, especially during dawn and dusk. Cover your breaks to reduce your reaction time in the event of a deer sighting. If riding in a group, stagger riders and allow space to reduce the likelihood of multiple riders going down if there is a rider collision either with or as a result of a deer in the road.
5) ICE, ICE, BABY Uncovered plants and motorcyclists share a common enemy in the fall: unexpected morning frost.
Nearly every year we get at least one call as a result of a customer laying their bike down due to an unanticipated ice patch on the road. Pay special attention to areas where overhanging trees create a large shaded area- those areas are most likely to frost up first!
