Summer Is Over. Your Riding Season Isn’t: The Fall Motorcycle Gear Guide

Fall may be one of the best times of the year to ride a motorcycle.

Temperatures drop, roads become quieter, mountain routes begin to change color, and after months of summer heat, spending an entire day on the motorcycle becomes enjoyable again.

But fall riding brings one major challenge: conditions can change dramatically during a single ride.

A morning that starts in the 40s or 50s can turn into a warm afternoon before temperatures drop again after sunset. Add wind, an unexpected rain shower or a change in elevation, and your riding gear suddenly has a lot more work to do.

The answer isn't necessarily heavier motorcycle gear.

It's more adaptable gear.

Think in Layers

The best fall motorcycle setup allows you to adapt without completely changing what you're wearing.

Start with a comfortable base layer, add your protective motorcycle jacket and pants, and then use thermal or waterproof layers as conditions require.

The objective is simple: stay protected while being able to adjust throughout the day.

Adventure and touring gear is especially useful for this type of riding because it is designed around changing conditions.

A versatile setup such as the RICHA Infinity 3 Adventure collection gives riders the ability to prepare for longer rides where weather and temperature may change considerably along the way.

Don't Ignore Ventilation

One of the easiest mistakes to make when temperatures begin dropping is assuming ventilation no longer matters.

It does.

A cool morning can quickly become a warm afternoon, particularly when riding through different elevations or climates.

Controllable ventilation lets you react to those changes instead of choosing between being cold in the morning or overheating later in the day.

When choosing fall riding gear, look for vents that can easily be opened and closed while you're traveling.

Be Ready for Rain

Fall weather isn't always predictable.

Even when the forecast looks clear, longer motorcycle rides can put you hundreds of miles from where you started.

That dramatically increases the possibility of encountering rain somewhere along the route.

Whether your riding gear incorporates waterproof technology or you carry separate rain protection, make sure your waterproof solution is easily accessible.

The worst place for your rain gear is buried underneath everything else in your luggage while the rain is already falling.

Don't Forget Your Hands

Your jacket and pants usually get most of the attention when temperatures start dropping, but your hands can become uncomfortable surprisingly quickly.

They're directly exposed to wind and are essential for controlling the motorcycle.

A lightweight summer glove that was perfect in July may not be the right choice in October.

For cooler riding, look for gloves that provide additional protection from wind and weather without becoming so bulky that you lose feel at the controls.

Pay Attention to Your Neck and Cuffs

Cold air doesn't need a very large opening.

A loose jacket collar or poorly sealed glove cuff can allow a constant stream of cool air into your gear at highway speeds.

Before heading out, check how your gloves, sleeves and collar work together.

Small adjustments can make a significant difference over several hours of riding.

Plan for the End of the Day

One of the biggest differences between summer and fall riding happens late in the afternoon.

Temperatures can drop quickly once the sun begins going down.

If you're planning a full-day ride, pack for the temperature you expect on the ride home—not simply the temperature when you leave.

An extra thermal layer takes up very little space and can make the final hour of a great ride considerably more enjoyable.

Keep Riding

The end of summer doesn't have to mean the end of riding season.

For many motorcyclists, fall offers some of the best riding of the year: cooler temperatures, beautiful roads and fewer brutally hot afternoons.

The key is being prepared for change.

Choose adaptable motorcycle gear, carry the right layers, prepare for changing weather and keep exploring.

Ready for the next ride? Explore RICHA motorcycle jackets, pants, gloves and adventure gear at RICHAUSA.com.