When the air turns crisp and the leaves start to change, riding a motorcycle in the fall season can be a very enjoyable experience. The cooler weather and scenic roads make it a favorite season for many riders. While beautiful to ride in, autumn also brings shorter days, unpredictable weather and hazards like wet leaves that can affect your ride.
Here are five key reminders to help you prepare for a safe and enjoyable fall riding season:
1. Check Your Tires - As temperatures drop, so does tire pressure. Low pressure impacts your traction and handling on the road, which are especially important on damp or leaf-covered pavement. Inspect your tires for proper inflation and tread depth and replace them if they’re worn down.
2. Light the Way - With daylight fading earlier each day, you’ll likely be riding more in the dark. Make sure your headlights, brake lights and turn signals are all working properly. Consider adding reflective gear or upgrading to LED lights to help other drivers see you even better.
3. Service Your Brakes - Wet leaves, frost or light rain can make fall roads slick. Reliable brakes are critical in these conditions. Check your brake pads and rotors and replace them if they’re worn. If your brakes feel weak, get them serviced before heading out.
4. Dress for the Season - Fall weather can be unpredictable, warm one minute and chilly the next. Layering is the best way to stay comfortable on the road. Wear windproof and waterproof gear and don’t forget reflective clothing to stay visible when it becomes darker on those shorter days.
5. Remain Ready for Changing Conditions - Autumn weather can shift quickly. Pack rain gear and a small toolkit and keep an eye on the forecast before each ride. Fallen leaves can hide potholes and hazards, so take extra caution when riding through wooded or rural areas.
At Hupy and Abraham, S.C., we’ve spent decades fighting for riders’ rights and promoting motorcycle awareness. Our “Watch for Motorcycles” campaign has reached millions through TV, billboards, stickers and events with the goal of keeping riders safe. Stay tuned to hupy.com for more motorcycle safety articles, event videos and more.
If you’re ever involved in an accident, call us right away at 800-800-5678 or chat with us at hupy.com. As many of our attorneys are riders themselves, we know how to handle the ins and outs of motorcycle accident cases. We’re here when you need us, on or off the road.
Ride safe, enjoy the fall riding season and always “Watch for Motorcycles.”
