Preparing For And Embracing Autumn: A Seasonal Bike Guide

1. Prepare Your Ride for Wet, Slippery Conditions

• Upgrade Your Tyres
  Autumn means puddles, wet leaves, and unseen hazards. Opting for wider, treaded, or puncture-resistant tyres enhances grip. Tubeless setups with sealant are especially handy for reducing flats and allowing lower pressures for better traction.
  

• Fit Mudguards
  Mudguards are critical workhorses in this season—shielding both rider and bike from spray, protecting drivetrain components, and keeping your back clean.
  

• Check Brakes & Gear Performance
  Autumn’s dampness wears brake pads faster and can muddy up cables. Ensure optimal stopping power by inspecting, cleaning, adjusting, or replacing brake pads and ensuring smooth shifting.
  

2. Dry, Lubricate & Protect Your Bike

• Clean & Lubricate the Drivetrain
  Keep the chain and gears clean and lubricated. Damp roads accelerate grime and rust, so regular degreasing and wet-condition lube application are essential.
  

• Protect Bearings & Hardware
  Water tends to infiltrate headsets and bearings. Open, clean, and regrease them with moisture-resistant grease for smooth steering and corrosion protection.
  

• Seatpost & Pedal Maintenance
  Autumn grime can freeze components in place. Removing, cleaning, greasing, and reinstalling the seatpost and pedals prevents seize-ups.
  

3. Stay Safe: Visibility & Equipment

• Bright Lights & Reflectors Are a Must
  With extended dawns and dusks, lighting is critical. Opt for front and rear LED lights, ideally rechargeable and water-resistant. Reflective clothing and bike attachments further boost visibility.
  

• Dress in Layers and Waterproof Gear
  Layering helps you adapt as temperatures shift. Waterproof and windproof jackets, overshoes, and gloves—preferably breathable—help riders stay comfortable and dry.
  

• Handle Slippery Terrain with Caution
  Avoid braking or turning on greasy leaves, painted lines, or metal surfaces. Always stay aware during wet conditions to avoid skids and punctures.
  

4. Prep for Longer-Term Off-Season Care

• Store Properly
  If you’re reducing your ride frequency, store your bike indoors, elevated to prevent tire deformation. A light clean and protective spray before storage can go a long way in preserving components.
  

• Know Your Limits—When to Seek a Pro
  While brake pad replacement or cleaning is DIY-friendly, complex tasks like hydraulic brake bleeds, suspension service, or carbon repairs are best left to professionals.
  

Autumn Tune-Up Checklist