IMPORTANT TIPS for Riding a Motorcycle in the Fall

26 Oct IMPORTANT TIPS for Riding a Motorcycle in the Fall

Fall is here! We in New England don’t get to enjoy warm weather all year long, so this is the time to get your last few rides in. There are different conditions to deal with in the fall and we at Lenny’s Small Engine Repair want you to ride safely.

Be Cautious of Leaves – Dry and Wet

Yes the leaves are full of color and look beautiful in the fall, but they are hazardous to riders once they start to fall to the ground, and potentially very dangerous. Dry leaves can pile up on the road and cover potholes or any other inconsistencies. Keep your eye on the road and try to take routes you are familiar with. Rain or morning dew will bring a different kind of hazard as they will create wet leaves causing them to make a slick pavement surface. This could make your bike slide on the road so try and avoid these kind of situations whenever you can. If you approach a pile of leaves on the road, try your best to drive slowly until you’re past the obstacle.

Deer and Moose

Deer and moose are more active in the Fall. More collisions with deer and moose happen during this season so you don’t want one to come in your path while riding your motorcycle. Make sure you put on your protective gear before going out for a ride, and always scan the road sides if you’re cruising on any rural road. Stay alert during dusk and dawn as these are the times of day when deer and moose movement reaches its peak.

Dress Appropriately

The cool, crisp air is very exhilarating during the fall. Temperatures are much more enjoyable to ride in compared to the heat that occurs in the summer. This is the time of year when leather truly is your best friend. Leather protects you from the wind and will keep you comfortably warm while riding.

Cold Fall Nights

The weather is more unpredictable this time of year. It can go from chilly in the morning, warm in the afternoon to below freezing at night. Bringing extra layers with you is something to keep in mind. Once the sun goes down, the temperature can significantly drop and you don’t want to run into some unexpected mechanical problems while under dressed.

Frosty And Icy Surfaces

Cold fall nights only lead to one thing – morning frost. Its important to be aware of frost on the roads in the early morning because the pavement could have a thin layer of ice above it which will force you to lose traction. Shaded areas will frost up first so its important to be knowledgeable of your surroundings while riding.

In closing, riding your motorcycle in the fall can be extremely enjoyable. Traffic on the back roads has decreased, the colors are full and the air is pure. Once the leaves begin to drop, the landscapes become more open. While enjoying your ride, please remember to stay safe.