Autumn: a season for bike commuting
You'll probably be doubtful after reading that title, but it's no less true. Despite the rain, wind, and the arrival of cold weather, autumn can also be a season to enjoy bike commuting. What could be better than taking advantage of those times when the streets are less crowded and the air is more invigorating than ever? Indeed, summer, with its pollen and fine particles, is over. The autumn air is healthier, and your lungs will thank you.
Not to mention all the other benefits associated with bike commuting:
- Reduced sedentary lifestyle
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
- Increased feeling of happiness
- Reduced stress levels
- Physical fitness
Dressing well
Obviously, a change of season means a change of clothes. Autumn is an inter-season between summer and winter, and you'll constantly be checking weather forecasts to wear the most appropriate outfit. And this, while respecting the 3-layer rule:
- First layer Designed to keep the body warm and dry, this is the layer that will be against your skin, so be careful about the materials you choose. Indeed, this layer must be able to wick away sweat. For this, prefer synthetic fibers over cotton as they dry faster. For example, you can opt for polyester, polypropylene, or polyamide, which is hydrophobic.
- Second layer This insulating layer will help you retain the heat produced by your body, while also wicking away perspiration. For this, you need to pay attention to the weather so you don't wear clothes that are too warm.
- Third layer This will be your protection against the elements, and for this, you should choose one that is breathable and waterproof, especially at the seams. For this layer, many garments exist: ponchos, windbreakers, rain pants, etc. The main thing is to choose the right material. For example, prefer technical fibers such as Gore-Tex or Windstopper membranes.
🚨Don't forget to protect your extremities
Some useful equipment
To ensure you have a good time despite the sometimes gloomy autumn weather, we have prepared a list of items that we consider essential for the season.
- Mudguard Indeed, even if it's a basic bicycle accessory, some people sometimes forget it, even though it can save your clothes from water, mud, or other dirt stirred up by the wheels in rainy weather.
- Lighting equipment Days are getting shorter, so to avoid being caught off guard by the changing light, remember to equip yourself with the necessary warning lights for safe riding.
- Overpants To avoid arriving at work with wet legs, overpants will be essential. But beware, water will run onto your shoes, so you will need to either have water-resistant shoes or overshoes.
- The poncho Unlike a classic windbreaker, the poncho is long enough to protect the top of your legs from the elements. Its drawback: significant wind resistance.
- The rain jacket It will be the best ally for those who make longer journeys because it will keep you warm. However, it will not protect your legs from water.
- Waterproof accessories You can, for example, find waterproof panniers, rain covers for your backpack. Or even tarpaulins, seat covers, or helmet covers, which will allow you to enjoy your cycling routine despite the rain.
Pay attention to maintenance
Indeed, rain tends to remove grease from your chains and clog up the entire bike mechanism. On the other hand, wet roads strewn with dead leaves can be extremely dangerous for those who do not have good brakes or tires in good condition.
Thus, you will have to regularly pay attention to the condition of your bike. Especially by cleaning the chain with a cloth as well as the cassettes where a little mud can accumulate. Do not hesitate to regularly check the chain lubrication and add grease if necessary.
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