5 Fall Cycling Tips to Keep Riding (Safely) This Time of Year
Fall is a beautiful time of year to go for a bike ride. The air is crisp, the leaves are changing colors, and there are fewer people on the trails. Biking in the fall does require a little extra planning to stay safe, especially during low-light or dark riding times. Follow these fall cycling tips to enjoy the tail end of the riding season confidently!
5 Tips for Biking in the Fall
Make the most of autumn cycling by following these tips and thinking ahead. Know that while you have every right to ride at night, you do need to follow local laws, which may include using a white front light and blinking red rear light any time you ride between dusk and dawn.
1. Be visible. This is the most important thing you can do to stay safe when riding in the dark. Make sure you have bright front and rear lights on your bike and that you are wearing reflective clothing. Consider wearing a helmet with a built-in light.
2. Be predictable. Signal your turns early and clearly, and obey all traffic laws. Be especially careful when crossing intersections and riding at night.
3. Be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for potholes, leaves, and other debris on the road. Be especially careful when riding in wooded areas, where visibility may be limited.
4. Slow down. Giving yourself extra time to react when riding in the dark is important. Reduce your speed so that you have more time to see and avoid obstacles.
5. Be prepared for the cold. The temperature can drop quickly in the fall, so be sure to dress appropriately. You may want to wear layers so that you can adjust your clothing as needed.
Go the Extra Mile to Be Safe
For cyclists looking to rack up late-season miles, fall offers cooler temperatures and a bit less traffic. In addition to the tips above, make sure you follow some hard-earned advice that’s especially handy for training during fall, winter and spring.
Here are some additional tips to help you ride safely this time of year:
Get your bike tuned up. Make sure your bike is in good working order before you head out for a ride. This includes checking your brakes, tires, and lights.
Tell someone where you're going. Let a friend or family member know where you're going and when you expect to be back.
Carry a phone. In case of an emergency, be sure to carry a phone with you so that you can call for help.
Be aware of the weather forecast. Check the weather forecast before you go on a ride so that you can be prepared for any changes in the conditions.
You Can’t Beat Fall Bike Rides with Friends
A little preparation and common sense will ensure you can keep riding all year long. Remember, there’s safety in numbers, too! Keep up with Norte Youth Cycling for year-round, family-friendly cycling events across northern Michigan. Sign up for our newsletter or get in touch to learn more about our work.
