🍁 Fall is coming – Here's how to stay Warm, Dry & Safe

🍁 Fall is coming – Here's how to stay Warm, Dry & Safe

Just because the days are getting shorter and the temps are dipping doesn’t mean the season’s over. Fall can actually be one of the most beautiful times to ride — crisp air, golden landscapes, and less traffic on your favorite roads. But it also brings colder mornings, sudden rain showers, and the need to stay visible in low light.

1. Layer Up: Smart Clothing for Changing Temps

Fall riding is all about variation — chilly starts, warm afternoons, damp evenings. The key is a layered setup that adjusts with the conditions.

  • Base layer: Merino wool still wins. It keeps you warm, wicks sweat quickly, and doesn’t stink after a long day.
  • Midlayer: A compressible and light-weight down jacket is what will keep you the warmest. Just make sure it's not bulking up too much under your riding suit, as you need the airpocket to keep you warm.
  • Outer shell: Your riding suit should block wind and rain. A laminated waterproof shell is better than an inner liner in fall, as it stays dry on the outside, while trapping warm air inside.

Pro tip: Don’t overdress. If you overheat and start sweating, moisture gets trapped in your layers — and wind chill will make you cold fast.

 

2. Stay Dry – Not Just Warm

Rain is more frequent in fall, and getting wet means getting cold — fast.

  • Boots: Waterproof boots with room for a warm sock are a must. Make sure they don’t fit too tight, or you'll end up with freezing feet.
  • Gloves: Go for weather-resistant gloves with decent insulation. Keep a second pair as backup in case the first gets soaked.
  • Rain suit: If you're planning a longer trip during fall, we recommend that you bring a light-weight and small-packing rain suit to go over your regular riding suit, even if you're using Gore-Tex. This will create yet another layer of insulation as your riding suit won't get wet.
  • Helmet prep: Keep your visor clean, apply an anti-fog treatment, and consider a pinlock insert or tear-offs. When it rains, your visor will fog up in no time unless prepped.

 

3. Visibility is Safety

Shorter days mean more low-light riding. Being seen is just as important as seeing. Fitting a set of Lone Rider Motorcycle Lights is a big upgrade. They will not only make you more visible to other road users, but also increase how far down the road / forest you can see.

Also consider adding reflective strips or patches on your panniers and top case to make you easier to spot from behind.

 


4. Boost Your Comfort: Small Bike Upgrades That Matter

A few tweaks to your bike can make a big difference when riding in colder weather.

  • Windscreen: A slightly taller screen helps block that chilly wind off your chest.
  • Hand covers: These block wind and rain from your hands and can extend the usability of your regular gloves.
  • Seat insulation: Sheepskin seat covers (yes, really) take the edge off cold saddles on early mornings.

 


5. Consider heating gear

You might not need a full-on winter prep, but artificial heating goes a long way.

  • Heated grips: Once you’ve used them, you’ll never want to ride without them again. If your bike doesn't come with them natively, you can get aftermarket grips from 3rd party manufacturers. Just google your bike model + "heated grips".
  • Heated vest: If you tend to get cold easily, a heated vest under your midlayer is a game-changer. Try it!
  • Heated seat: A luxury, yes. But if you’re riding longer distances or into late fall, it’s surprisingly helpful.

Not essential — but all of these can extend your season by weeks.

 


6. Break-Time Basics: Stay Warm Off the Bike Too

Being prepared for breaks is half the battle in cold weather.

  • Hot drink: Carry a thermos. Even 5 minutes sipping something warm helps.
  • Hand warmers: Cheap, light, and a cozy when the chill sets in. Toss one in each glove at break time.

 


7. Ride more Defensively

Cold weather means cold streets. Make sure you gradually warm up your tires before increasing your lean angles. Watch out for wet spots in shaded areas as overnight damp can stick around well into the day. Bridge decks, tree-covered corners, and north-facing slopes tend to stay slick longer. Adjust your pace, look farther ahead, and ride like traction is limited — because in fall, it often is.


Riding in fall just takes a little more prep — but it’s worth it. The roads are quieter, the views are stunning, and your bike deserves more miles before the snow falls.

So gear up, layer right, stay visible, and enjoy the ride! 🍂

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