The crisp autumnal season has truly arrived with darker and colder days, but its vibrant colors and fresh air make it a perfect time to commute and explore new routes in your local area. Plus, with the cooler temperatures, it's important to stay active to keep your cardiovascular health and overall well-being in top shape as we prepare for winter.
Cycling is a great way to enjoy this wonderful season while staying fit, but the fluctuating autumnal climate requires a little more preparation than more summery cycling conditions. Read on for some tips to help you ride through this season with confidence.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Check the weather forecast before you ride so that you're fully prepared for your journey with appropriate cycling accessories and clothing.
Autumn riding can be a little more challenging with a greater likelihood of rain, wind and colder temperatures, so dressing appropriately for these conditions will make you feel more comfortable and improve your alertness and performance while on the road.
Be prepared for all weather by wearing multiple layers of clothing, with high-visibility outer layers, especially on the darker days, so you're always visible to other riders, drivers, and pedestrians. The following layers will help you regulate your body temperature, retain enough heat, and be as protected as possible from changeable weather:
1. For your first layer, we recommend a moisture-wicking layer to help keep your skin dry.
2. Next, an insulating mid layer.
3. Top it off with a windproof/waterproof jacket.
You can also check here for more cycling clothing tips.
Tire pressure and brake inspection
As always, it's important to check your e-bike to see if it needs any maintenance, but at this time of year it's especially important to maintain your e-bike's tires and brakes for smooth and safe riding, as autumnal weather can make road conditions less predictable.
Tire pressure
Cooler temperatures can cause air to contract, which may significantly reduce tire pressure. This can affect your bike's performance, making it harder to control and more prone to punctures, especially on road surfaces where you'll need better traction, such as wet leaves and mud.
Your tire pressure can be measured with a digital or high-quality manual tire gauge, and the recommended PSI range should be printed on the sidewall of your tire. For more challenging autumnal conditions, it will need to be adjusted to improve your bike's surface grip. For standard urban riding conditions, we'd advise it to be around 5-10 PSI lower than usual pressure, and 20-30 PSI lower if you're venturing out on an off-road adventure.
Brake safety proofing
Damp or wet conditions can reduce brake effectiveness. Here are some tips to make sure they're performing as they should:
Before you ride:
- Check brake pads for excessive or uneven wear, replacing if necessary.
- Squeeze the brake levers to ensure they engage smoothly.
- Brake cables or hydraulic lines must be inspected for tension, leaks, or damage.
- Clean the brake pads of mechanical/rim brakes with a clean cloth; for disc brakes, use a specific brake cleaner to keep rotors free from grease or contaminants.
During your ride:
- Test your brakes a few times to make sure they're working optimally, especially in wet conditions.
- Listen for any strange noises such as squeaking or grinding.
If you have any concerns about the above, take your e-bike to a mechanic who can help you diagnose any potential problems. You can also learn more about effective braking here.
Be alert and visible in your local environment
Fallen leaves on the road can be a problem for autumn riding, causing slippery conditions, especially when wet, which can lead to skidding or losing control. Leaves can also sometimes hide hazards such as debris, potholes, or uneven surfaces, making potential hazards harder to see. Be extra cautious around leaves to avoid any unwanted surprises while riding.
With seasonal darker mornings and evenings, in addition to wearing high-visibility clothing, make sure you and the road around you are as visible as possible by checking your bike lights are working properly:
- Make sure your bike's front and rear lights are bright enough by checking they're visible from at least 150 meters.
- Test all light modes and look for any flickering (this could mean a low battery or loose connection).
- Check that the lights are securely attached to your bike and correctly positioned to illuminate your path and make you visible to other vehicles and pedestrians.
Final words
As always, don’t forget to stay hydrated to keep your mind and body in top form on your cycling trips. Last but not least, enjoy the ride! Once you feel prepared for riding in this ever-changing season, it’s time to hop on your e-bike and soak in autumn’s vibrant colors and scenery. For inspiration, we’ve put together a fun list of outdoor activities you can do with your e-bike, and feel free to inspire others by sharing your riding routes and activities with our TENWAYS community. Happy autumn e-biking!
