9 pieces of must-have gear to make the most of autumn riding

Summer has officially transitioned into autumn which for cyclists means one thing, we have entered arguably the best time of year for riding bikes. It’s a season when the foliage is spectacular, the temperature is crisp and the light is beautiful so you absolutely must take advantage of the riding at this incredible time of year. To make the most of fall riding, you will want to make sure you have the right gear on hand. Here are 9 must-have items to take full advantage of fall riding:

Gilet

One of the simplest pieces of gear you could have is a cycling gilet. They are extremely versatile offering protection for your core in cold weather while simultaneously not being so heavy that they become restrictively hot in the heat. In the autumn, the temperature often fluctuates during rides making it essential to have gear that can keep you warm but be paired with warm weather kit.

Lights

The sun rises later and sets earlier in fall. You will inevitably be riding more in the dark at the beginning or end of your rides. To ensure you stay visible and safe out on the roads make sure you have a pair of good bike lights with long-lasting batteries.

Arm and leg warmers

Warmers that can be removed when it heats up are great to have on those crisp autumn mornings. Start with them on and you can easily slip them right off.

Bar bag

When you want to carry extra gear on your bike, bar bags are a fantastic option. On your fall adventures you can pack additional gear, clothes and snacks in a bar bag so you always have what you need on your rides.

Puncture-resistant tires

With the race season over, there’s no longer need to be running the lightest, fastest rolling tire you can get your hands on. Relax a little and choose reliable rubber that won’t flat riding over road debris. With leaves falling from the trees and more material on the roads, you’ll want the extra protection. Additionally, you want to minimize the chance of you needing to change a flat in the colder weather.

Fenders

To keep your bum dry when the roads are damp, fenders are pretty key. While you may feel you can tolerate the wet, we promise it will be far more comfortable and you will enjoy riding exponentially more with fenders.

Glasses with a lighter tint

Lower light conditions mean the summer shades might be getting less usage this autumn. Instead of leaving your eyes exposed when riding when it’s gloomy, find a pair of glasses with a clear or light tint to help keep seeing clearly. A photochromic lens that transitions from a lighter to darker tint is also an excellent option for fall rides.

Booties and gloves

Like having warm hands and toes? The cool winds of autumn can bring about nippy temperatures that make keeping your extremities comfortable a little more challenging. Having a good pair of gloves and booties to help keep your feet warm and dry will be a godsend this fall.

Adventure or cyclocross bike

Have you heard how fun racing cyclocross is? Cowbells and mud plus a strong community atmosphere combine for the most fun races of the entire year. To participate you need a bike that is up to task. If racing isn’t your cup of tea, why not roll out a gravel bike with some wide tires to tackle every surface to go beyond your usual routes this autumn. It’s a great way to take advantage of the beautiful fall riding conditions.