Summer is officially over. Temperatures are dropping and the leaves are starting to fall. Personally, Fall is my favorite season. Sadly, at least in Belgium, that means even more rain than usual. However, that should not stop you from enjoying nice ride in the crisp airthrough colorful landscapes. Here's our guide to riding in Fall!

Bike Prep

As the weather changes, so should the way you prepare your bike. Here are some tips to prepare for fewer daylight hours, wet roads and colder temperatures.

• Handguards and/or Heated Grips: Cold air can make your hands numb, reducing your control of the bike. Installing handguards helpsdeflect cold wind (it really works!) and it looks really cool on ADV or retro enduro bikes. If handguards aren't available for your bike or you don't like the look, heated grips might be an option for you! They're usually a breeze to install too. If you want to stay really nice and cosy on your bike, just go with both. These are small and budget-friendly upgrades but make a huge difference, especially on longer rides. 
• Check your lights: With shorter days and unpredictable weather, visibility becomes crucial. Make sure your headlight, taillight and any AUX light are working properly and are correctly positioned. You even may want to consider upgrading to LED lights if the bike does not have these as standard. They offer better visibility and are usually easy to install.
• Battery Care: As temperatures drop, your bike’s battery may struggle. Fall often brings fewer riding days, so keeping your battery healthy when not riding regularly is key. Consider using a trickle charger to maintain the battery when your bike sits idle for long periods. 

By spending some extra attention to your bike this season, you'll ensure it performs well in the cold and wet conditions.

Layer Up

Fall weather is unpredictable. You might start a ride in the chilly morning and finish it in the afternoon warmth, or be caught in sudden rain showers. Mastering the art of layering helps you stay comfortable and adapt to changing conditions quickly.

• Start with a good base layer: This is easier than you might think. Just grab a 100% cotton t-shirt or longsleeve and you're good to go. Cotton is breathable and organic, so nice to your skin. You'll probably already have a couple in your closet! Or, check out our selection of 100% cotton t-shirts and longsleeves here.
• Mid Layer: Here you'll want something insulating, like a fleece or light down jacket/vest. If you don't have those, a flannel shirt or sweater will do just fine too.
• Waxed cotton or leather outer layer: I know, I know. I should mention Gore-Tex jackets or similar fabric jackets but the truth is that these usually make you look like an astronaut from a sci-fi movie. Sorry, but there are really cool alternatives out there that keep you warm and dry at a fraction of the cost. Waxed cotton is waterproof (if cared for correctly), breathable and extremely durable. Check out some of our waxed jackets here. Leather jackets are also an excellent choice for windy days, but they are generally not as good in the rain as leather tends to absorb a lot of water. This makes them heavy and cold. For a quick run around town, they can be a good option though.
• Don't forget your neck: Cold air hitting your neck can make even a short ride uncomfortable. Use a tunnel scarf, or better yet, a fleece-lined one, to keep the wind at bay and stay cozy. Check out some options here.

Layering not only keeps you warm but also allows you to remove or add layers as the weather changes, making your ride more enjoyable.

Our top 5 for this fall

1. Holy Freedom Polar Tunnels. 
   
   These are life-changers. Because their fleece lining they are incredibly comfortable and warm. And...they look stylish too. Check them out here.
2. Roeg Bubble Visors. 
   
   Rocking a jet helmet like the Roeg Jett or a closed retro lid like the Biltwell Gringo? Then you need a Bubble Visor in your arsenal. They are a universal fit, block out the wind/rain and look cool as hell. The fact that you can get them in different colors is an added bonus. Get 'em here.
3. Age of Glory Waxed Jackets. 
   
   Both the Mission and Worker jacket are an excellent choice for the coming months and even make an great all-year-round jacket. Water repellent waxed cotton or denim keep the wind and rain out and included elbow and shoulder protectors keep you safe. They even have an extra waterproof and breathable membrane inside to make sure nothing gets in. A great fit on any type of bike, check them out here.
4. Holy Freedom Waterproof Boots. 
   
   These are something special. If you wear these with your pants covering them, they look just like normal boots. But if you like a little bit of vintage enduro cool-factor and wear your pants tucked in they transform into something completely else. Waterproof, ECE rated and made out of leather. Made out of leather, they will form a nice patina over time. Check 'em out here.
5. Age of Glory Carpenter Winter Gloves. 
   
   Can you tell we love Age of Glory? With a water- and windproof membrane inside and fleece liner they will keep your hands nice and warm through fall and winter. Available in brown and black leather. Comfortable, warm but not too bulky. Just the way we like it. Check them out here.

Ride on, Stay Safe

There’s no reason to park your bike in the garage just yet! Fall riding offers a unique riding experience filled with beautiful scenery and refreshing air. By prepping your bike for the cooler weather, mastering layering techniques, and upgrading your gear, you’ll be ready to take on the season comfortably and in style!

However, always stay alert. Fallen leaves, wet roads, and rapidly changing weather can make riding more challenging. Wet leaves are slippery, and cold tires may not grip the road as well. So, ride cautiously, maintain your bike, and keep an eye on the forecast before heading out.

With the right preparation and gear, you can enjoy some of the most rewarding rides of the year this Fall season. Stay warm, stay safe, and keep the adventure going!