Early season wet weather riding can make for the best riding – but only if you know how to set your bike up properly, how to handle tricky conditions, dress right, and as important as anything else, to take proper care of your bike before and after the ride.
Once again we’re going to point you to that time honored, Bikeskills article, on wet weather article written way back in 2004. And while we can – and will – provide you with more tips and advice to have safe fun this fall, winter (and spring in most places) as “old” as it is, our advice way back in 2004 is still a good place to start. But before you read the article, here are some basic things to think about, plan for, etc:
- A little water on the dirt often makes for optimal riding in terms of traction, reduced dust, loose rocks, etc.
- Even a light rain can make rocks and especially roots, a lot more slippery. This is something to keep in mind especially on the trails you ride the most often in the same way you need to think about those first rain’s effects on your daily commute to work and back!
- Some tires provide more traction and control in wet and slippery conditions and are also less prone to getting clogged with mud and gunk
- There are “things” on your bike you will need to keep well lubricated if you plan on riding in wet, messy conditions
- Don’t forget about yourself! If you get wet, you will most likely end up getting cold so remember it’s often more important to stay dry than it is to worry about layering up, if the layers end up getting soaked
- Last and certainly not least, there’s no doubt about it, wet weather, cold temperatures, etc. make for more challenging conditions which means more things to go wrong! Make sure to wear more protective gear including eye protection, pads, a full-face helmet if the trail is demanding…
For more information on how to become four-seasons ready for mountain biking, check out the full article by clicking on the “Wet Weather Riding” image above, or by going to: http://www.bikeskills.com/wet.php
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