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In Canada, autumn is known as Indian summer. The forests glow in bright colours, the air is clear and the sun is low in the sky. According to the calendar, autumn starts on 23 September, while meteorologically it begins on 1 September. For many mountain bikers, this is the perfect time for tours and rides on the trails. The cooler temperatures make the climbs more pleasant and the views from the mountains are even more impressive than in summer.
However, many bikers also find autumn so appealing because it is seen as a warning shot. According to the motto: The dreary winter is coming soon, so let's quickly collect some more adventure talismans. To ensure that trail rides and tours in autumn don't turn into torture, we present 12 products that prepare us for the cold season. Ideal for autumn, but also for spring.
Our tips: Bikers need these MTB parts in autumn
THE SECRET TIP: Waistcoats are usually only common among bikers as wind waistcoats, but lightly insulated waistcoats are perfect for autumn and spring. Good: The torso is warmed and the armpits are exposed. Tip: Combine the waistcoats with a merino longsleeve. Good waistcoats are available from Patagonia, Scott or Fox, for example, such as the Fox Ranger Wind Bloc shown here. RRP: 150 euros >> at Bikeinn available at a reduced price.
MUST HAVE: In damp, muddy conditions, the drivetrain wears out quickly. Once the dirt has been rinsed off the bike, you should definitely check the chain. Clean and maintaine.g. with a special Chain lubricant for damp conditions. The Motorex Wet Protect chain oil has achieved some of the best results in past laboratory tests. RRP: 9.95 euros >> e.g. available at Amazon.
FINGER-TIP FEELING: The hands are particularly at risk in cool temperatures. They cool down particularly quickly in combination with the wind. The result: numb fingers. We recommend lightly insulated MTB gloves in autumn. These are usually sufficient and allow enough feeling for braking. For example, the Brisker Thermo gloves from 100 %. RRP: 34.90 euros >> e.g. available at Amazon.
CLEAN: "Dried-in dirt works its way into the bearings and has a negative effect on durability," says racer Christian Textor - and Texi should know. Our tip: Hose the bike down thoroughly after wet and humid rides. No problem even when travelling: The Stihl RCA 20 comes with a 20-litre folding canister, flexible hose and a runtime of over 20 minutes. Price: 229 euros >> available here.
SPRAY PROTECTION: While midges often land in your eyes in spring and summer, in autumn and spring it's splash water and mud. Eyes also tend to water due to the higher humidity. Glasses help. Photochromic glasses are currently in fashion. They tint automatically when exposed to sunlight and therefore also serve as sunglasses. Disadvantage: The glasses are somewhat more expensive than normal clear glasses. Good models are available, for example, from Alpina Rockt V- (extra clear lens 20 euros). RRP: 100 euros >> e.g. available at a reduced price at Amazon.
You can find articles on "Biking in winter" here:
EAR WARMERS: Helmet caps do not have a good image, but they are highly functional. A thin helmet cap is enough to protect your ears from the wind on cool autumn and mild winter days. Models with windproof inserts are even warmer. We recommend the bike cap from Vaude, for example. RRP: 22 euros >> e.g. at Amazon or Rose available.
MUD PROTECTION: Plastic fenders no longer have much to do with classic mudguards. The fenders from Mudhugger protect the rider from splash water and at the same time protect the stanchions and fork tubes. Also available for the rear. The models from Mudhugger (Evo Bolt On Shorty and Medium rear wheel) are a little more expensive, but good. The front fender can be attached to the fork with bolts. RRP: 43 Euro (front), 36.30 Euro (rear)
COMPULSORY CLOTHING: The heavy-duty classic Endura MT500 Waterproof Jacket II from Scotland is extensively equipped and perfectly adjustable. The sleeves with flap and double cuffs are great, as is the well-fitting hood. This can be gathered up when not in use. Only moderately vapour permeable, but extensively ventilated and therefore also well suited for trail use. The waterproofing lasts a comparatively long time, the MT500 seems to be made for eternity. Price: RRP 280 euros.
WEGBEGLEITER: In autumn, after-work rides can quickly end at dusk. To get home safely, we recommend a bike light (not suitable for trail riding). The Sigma Aura 100 and the Blaze rear light have five modes and sufficient power. Great: the battery indicator. The front and rear lights can also be coupled - for easy handling. RRP: 116 euros >> e.g. at Rosebikes available at a reduced price.
WASHING POWDER: Riding in mud without washing your bike quickly takes its toll. We therefore recommend washing the bike after use. Caution when using High-pressure cleanersDo not hold directly on the bearings! Special bike cleaners help with washing and remove dirt. The Muc-Off Punk Powder is mixed with water - this saves on plastic bottles and packaging. According to the manufacturer, it also contains easily biodegradable ingredients and is cruelty-free. RRP: 43 euros (4-pack) >> e.g. available at Rosebikes for 21,95 Euro.
WARMERS: Merino blend fabric keeps you warm, doesn't stink and is comfortable against the skin. With a lightly insulated waistcoat (see above), this is the ideal combination for the cold season. We recommend, for example, the Merino Sport 120 long-sleeved shirt from Smartwool (material 53% wool, 47% lyocell). RRP: 65 euros.
DRY GUARANTEE: The Five Ten Trailcross rain shoe has all the features an MTB shoe needs. A grippy sole, toe protection and a comfortable fit. It is also waterproof, thanks to a breathable Gore-Tex membrane and the high neoprene shaft. We have already tried out the shoe for one bad weather season. Our verdict: so far it has held up. RRP: 180 euros >> e.g. available here.
HEATING COVER: The Poc Mantle Thermal weather hoodie is warm and very comfortable to wear thanks to its stretch material. The outer material is water-repellent and can withstand even minor rain showers. Ideal: the zip pocket on the back and the small opening on the chest, which serves as a goggle holder. Price: RRP 170 euros >> e.g. at Bergzeit available at a reduced price.
Laurin Lehner
Editor
