Getting Your Bike Ready for Autumn in Lewes
There’s something rather special about cycling around Lewes and the Downs in autumn. The crowds thin out, the Downs take on their golden and russet colours, and the lanes around Kingston, Glynde, Rodmell and Firle can be wonderfully quiet.
But autumn also brings a few challenges for cyclists. Wetter roads, fallen leaves, muddy bridleways, cooler mornings and rapidly shortening days all mean that your bike needs to be ready for the change in conditions.
Here are a few things we recommend checking before your next autumn ride.
Check your tyres
Good tyres are one of the most important upgrades you can make as the weather changes. On the roads around Lewes, you can encounter everything from smooth tarmac to loose flint, wet leaves and muddy lanes – while the chalk tracks of the South Downs can become surprisingly slippery after rain.
Check your tyres for worn tread, cuts and cracks, and make sure they're inflated to the correct pressure. If you're regularly heading onto the Downs or riding gravel and bridleways, a tyre with a little more grip can make a big difference.
Wet chalk in particular deserves respect: it can become considerably more slippery than it looks. (Cyclist)
Give your brakes some attention
Autumn means longer stopping distances. Wet rims, mud and leaves can all reduce braking performance, particularly on the steep descents around the Downs.
Check that your brake pads aren't worn and that your brakes are working smoothly and evenly. If you have disc brakes, check the pads and rotor too.
If anything feels spongy, noisy or less effective than usual, it's worth getting it checked before rather than after your first wet-weather ride.
Don't forget the chain
Rain and road grime are particularly good at finding their way into your drivetrain. A clean, properly lubricated chain will shift better, run more quietly and help reduce unnecessary wear on your cassette and chainrings.
After a wet ride, wipe the bike down rather than leaving it covered in water and mud. Pay particular attention to the chain, gears and brake components.
Lights aren't just for winter
With the days getting shorter, you can easily find yourself riding home in conditions that were bright when you set off.
A decent front and rear light is therefore essential. Even if you don't normally ride after dark, having lights with you is sensible for those unexpectedly gloomy afternoons or misty mornings.
It's especially useful around the Downs and country lanes, where street lighting can be limited.
Check your kit
Autumn weather in Sussex can change quickly. A chilly start can turn into a surprisingly warm afternoon, followed by a damp ride home.
A lightweight waterproof jacket, gloves and an extra layer are all worth carrying. And don't forget the basics: spare inner tube, tyre levers, pump and a multi-tool.
Finally, give the whole bike a check
Autumn is an ideal time for a general bike check before the wetter months really arrive. Check the gears, brakes, tyres, wheels, headset and drivetrain – and don't ignore any new noises, rattles or changes in how the bike feels.
Lewes is surrounded by fantastic cycling country, from quiet lanes and the Ouse Valley to the bridleways and challenging climbs of the Downs, and bike that's properly prepared means you can enjoy all of it with confidence.
Pop in and see us
If your bike hasn't had a check for a while, come and see us at Lewes Cycleshack, 53 Cliffe High Street.
We're happy to give your bike a free gear check, help you get it ready for autumn riding, or simply have a look around our latest bikes, clothing, accessories and workshop essentials.
Pop into Lewes Cycleshack on Cliffe High Street before your next autumn ride – and make sure your bike is ready for whatever the Sussex weather throws at you!
