Some bikers put their motorcycles away after Labor Day weekend, but many look forward to what can be some of the best riding weather. If you’re planning on riding during autumn, make sure your bike is safe and ready to handle the change of the season.

Maybe you are planning on signing up for one of the many organized rallies that take place year round in the motorcycling community or maybe you are just going to start her up and go for a nice long solitary spin around the neighborhood. Either way – and no matter how boring this may sound – it is really important to think about safety and to take the time necessary to assure you and your bike are ready to take that next adventure and to ride safe.

Check the Mechanics

After the summer riding season, your bike may need a tune-up. Check that all parts are functioning correctly and that you have good tread and air pressure in your tires. Make sure your fluid levels are good and that all controls are working properly.

Wear Proper Clothing

Autumn has many temperature changes. It can be quite chilly in the morning and still reach the mid-70s or 80s in the afternoon, depending on where you are. The best thing you can do to adjust to the changes is to dress in layers. You should never wear cotton as a base layer. Use thermal underwear or something with a synthetic blend as your base layer.

On top of the base layer, wear comfortable riding attire. Don’t wear a hoodie, but rather a zip-up sweatshirt or shirt.

Make sure you have the proper riding gear for all road and weather conditions. Nothing worse than freezing fingers or icy sharp rain pounding down on exposed skin. Be ready for harsh conditions as our summer fades to fall.

Beat the Wind With Leather

It might be too hot to wear leather during the summer, but it’s perfect for fall. Leather motorcycle jackets or chaps can protect you from the wind and keep you more comfortable while riding. They usually also have removable liners.

You can wear riding boots with synthetic liners and wool socks. This combination will let your feet breathe in case they get warm.

Finally, it’s a good idea to wear a pair of synthetic glove liners underneath your leather biker gloves and pack fingerless leather gloves in a storage compartment. You’ll be able to switch in the afternoon when you get too warm.

Switch to a Half- or Full-Visor Helmet

Cold air can be harsh on your eyes, so switch to a Department of Transportation-approved helmet with a half- or full-visor.

Bring Your Rain Gear

A raw, chilling rain can cause hypothermia quickly, especially if you’re not wearing the best riding attire. Always pack your rain gear, just in case.

Watch for Riding Hazards

Fallen leaves can be very slippery and cause accidents, and many deer are more active during autumn – especially during dawn and dusk. Keep your eyes out for any riding hazard so you have time to react. Take road conditions into consideration every single time you hop on that bike. In the fall wet leaves and strong winds are hazards we don’t always think about. Those leaves can be damn slippery (and not in a good way) and taking those turns will demand more of your attention.

Additional General Tips

Keep alert when participating in a group ride. If you plan on riding in a group be mindful to avoid mimicking the moves of the rider ahead of you. Following a lead rider who happens to make a mistake can lead to an otherwise preventable accident. If you are new to group rides – keep alert at all times – stay closer to the middle/ back of the pack and keep a safe distance from the rider in front of you.

Develop smooth riding techniques. As with all riding, in racing, the motorcycle rider who employs the smoothest input will enjoy the most rewarding experience and success. Motorcycles are almost always very responsive to subtle control input..

Take road conditions into consideration. Tire pressure, suspension settings and rider positioning are all influencing factors that may be affected by changing road conditions – an important reason why bike set-up is a critical component of a winning racing strategy. Before you hit the road or the track, take your time in planning how best to prepare for existing surface conditions.

Don’t be tempted to ride “over your head” in terms of riding ability and experience. Taking a refresher-riding course on a regular basis is always an excellent idea.

Know your bike – the ins and outs – the hiccups and coughs – the rough and unexpected are better handled when you have intimate knowledge of that machine you are straddling.

Test your brakes baby – make sure you use your front and back breaks in harmony – too many riders are heavy on one or the other – and with 70% of your stopping power located up front – it is important to use a combination of both to maximize control in an emergency situation.

Focus and think ahead – not a particular target – but the big picture. 

Even the most cautious of riding enthusiasts need to make sure that their vehicles are covered in the event of a collision or riding mishap. Motorcycle and powersports insurance policies may be taken out to cover theft, collision, vandalism, as well as damage caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers. For coverage that best suits your needs, it’s a good idea to check with several reputable companies who specialize in these policies and have a proven track record in settling motorcycle claims.