Although Summer is the most glorious time for cycling, it is still possible to have some fun rides during the Fall, as long as you take these extra safety precautions:
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Wear Reflective Gear
Shorter days mean darker days. Make sure that cars can see you by wearing reflective gear while cycling, regardless of the time of day.
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Wear Cold Weather Gear
You will nearly always be colder on a bicycle than if you are walking. When you ride, you create a breeze that cools you, even though you are exercising. Be sure to wear socks and gloves to keep your extremities warm. If you are wearing something extra on your head, make sure it doesn’t block your vision or hearing.
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Ride Safely in the Rain
Watch out for slick spots while riding in the rain. Manhole covers, grates, leaves, and other shiny or slick objects can cause you to crash. Also stay off the reflective tape on the road! Don’t ride on the “fog line” because it gets really slick when it is wet.
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Watch Out For Puddles
Don’t ride through puddles. You never know how deep they are or what is at the bottom. Puddles often form in cracked road surfaces, which are especially dangerous for cyclists.
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Use a “Buddy Flap” or Fenders
Keep yourself dryer and be kind to your friends by putting fenders or a “buddy flap” on your bike during bad weather, BUT make sure you install them properly so that they don’t come loose and stick in your wheels.
