Get Your Bike Ready for Autumn

For many motorcyclists, the arrival of autumn doesn’t mean putting the bike away. But wetter roads, falling leaves, lower temperatures and reduced daylight can make riding more challenging.

If you're an all-weather rider, now is a good time to make sure your tyres are ready for the change in conditions. An easy way to remember what to check is A.C.T.

A – Air pressure

Check your tyre pressures regularly and when the tyres are cold. Use the pressures recommended by your motorcycle or tyre manufacturer. Correct pressure is important for handling, braking and tyre performance.

C – Condition

Take a close look at both tyres. Check for cuts, cracking, bulges, embedded objects or other signs of damage. If something doesn't look right, get the tyre inspected by a competent motorcycle tyre specialist.

T – Tread

Check the tread across the tyre and don't wait until it is badly worn before taking action. Good tread is particularly important when riding on wet roads, where tyres need to disperse water effectively.

Watch out for low sun and wet roads

Autumn can also bring a difficult combination of wet road surfaces and low, bright sunlight. Glare and reflections from a wet road can make it harder to see what is ahead and can also make you less visible to other road users.

Keep your visor clean and in good condition, reduce your speed when visibility is affected and increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front. Remember that wet leaves, standing water, mud and painted road markings may also offer less grip.

This autumn, make A.C.T. part of your routine: Air pressure, Condition and Tread.

A few minutes checking your tyres before you ride could help ensure you have the grip you need when the weather turns.