What is happening to us?
Is our wonderful summer really coming to an end?
Please, NOooo…
This has been a glorious run of good summer for the Pacific Northwest, but this weekend it will be Thanksgiving!
Recently, (last week) in October it was about 30 degrees on the deck in the sun…
Ah, the memories are grand!
So now the wet, grey and darkness will soon close in and make change happen as Mother Nature shews us the new plans for Autumn and Winter.
Times of seasonal change should also bring on the assessment of one’s equipment to brave the elements.
Could this mean new gear for the new season?
Just like with your car you should think about the rubber you ride on. This is just the safest way to go forward (instead of sideways) on wet or frosty roads!
New bike tires, proper lighting and bright rain gear will all help and improve your safety while also protecting others from not seeing you 😉
Remember the Rule: When you ride a bike (especially in the Dark of Winter) you should think that you are invisible…
Why Invisible? Because to many others You Are Invisible!
Also helpful, check out some of the following tips from the Travel Smart website below:
Preparing Your Bike For The Rain
Summer is coming to an end, and some of you might want to hang your bike up in the garage, and call it a day, but not so fast! Riding in the Fall and Winter isn’t as bad as it seems. Follow these tips to get you and your bike ready for the rain!
- Winter tires: The roads are wetter, and debris tends to stick. While no tire is puncture proof, getting some heavy duty ones that will make it more difficult for objects to puncture through. You should also consider wider tires which offer better grip than speedy skinny tires.
- Wash your bike: Dirt and bikes are not the best of friends. In order to keep the mechanisms running smoothly on your commuter, you should wash your bike to get the grime, and salt off.
- Dress in layers: It’s a lot colder in the morning now then it was back in July. You need to dress in layers so you don’t over heat during your ride. It’s also important to have a waterproof layer. You never know when rain will start falling, especially in Metro Vancouver.
- Watch out for rainbow patches: Rain causes the oil build up in the pavement to rise to the top, essentially creating an oil slick on the road. Steer clear of rainbow-edged puddles.
- Check your brake pads: All the grime and dirt on the roads can wreak havoc on your brake pads. Be sure to check your pads at least once a month, and also allow for longer brake times.
What are some other things you do each year to prepare for Fall and Winter riding?
See what others are saying and add your comments to the community conversation at the below to Travel Smart:
http://www.travelsmart.ca/en/Life-and-Home/Bike-More/Preparing-Your-Bike-For-The-Rain.aspx
For a Video of how to take your bike on the bus check out this link:
http://www.acecycles.com/links/
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