Fall weather is officially here to stay, but the arrival of cooler temps brings potential dangers to motorcyclists. When enjoying the open road this fall it’s important to be aware of the changing weather that could impact your riding abilities.
Shorter Daylight Hours
With the sun rising later and setting earlier each day, visibility decreases during morning and evening commutes for both motorcyclists and motorists. As a motorcyclist it’s important to always wear high visibility protective gear and position yourself outside of a motorist’s blind spot to avoid blending in with traffic.
Frosted Roadways
In the fall you may notice frost accumulating on the roads during your morning travels. Frost can negatively impact your riding abilities due to the loss of traction. If you find yourself riding on frost, maintain a slower speed, avoid erratic movements, and brake slowly by squeezing the brake lever to roll through the frosted area. Keeping a safe distance between you and the vehicles around you will help avoid a collision if you lose slight control while riding in frost.
Fog
Fog may also negatively impact your riding abilities during your morning ride. If possible, avoid riding in foggy weather conditions. However, if you find yourself caught riding in fog remember to always use your low beam headlights, slow down, and use extreme caution. Wearing high visibility protective gear and keeping a safe riding distance between you and other vehicles is important when riding in difficult conditions.
Harvest Season
Harvest season is underway which means more slow-moving farm equipment and possible debris will be on the roads in rural Indiana communities. Motorcyclists are urged to use caution and patience when sharing the road with farm equipment while also keeping an eye out for debris in the road. By keeping a safe distance between you and other vehicles, you reduce the chances of a collision caused by unseen debris in the road.
Cold Weather Gear
As temperatures begin to decrease it’s important you wear proper cold weather protective gear. Riding with a helmet, gloves, jacket, long pants, and boots will help you stay warm and regulate your body temperature. By wearing protective gear designed for cold weather, your focus can remain on the road instead of trying to stay warm.
Enjoy the open road this fall motorcycle season and Ride Safe Indiana.