Explore Asheville Home>What to Do>Seasonal Fun>Fall >Fall Activities and Excursions>Fall Cycling Scenic Rides>Asheville Bicycling Tips
Fall is an ideal time to tour WNC by bicycle because the temperatures are cooler and the air is less humid. To really enjoy cycling, it’s important to be prepared.
Here are a few tips from a local expert.
- Always take plenty of water and food when you head out on your bike. Not having enough to drink can make you miserable, causing cramping and loss of energy on a long ride. While riding in the woods there are no stores for provisions. Country roads have limited places to purchase food many of which are closed on Sundays or holidays. Always bring an energy bar or food sports gel in your pack — it can save the day.
- Always carry a light windbreaker in spring and fall no matter what the weather forecast looks like. When climbing into the higher elevations, the weather can change by 20 degrees and rain clouds can gather unexpectedly on a mountain top. Without a jacket, not only can you get cold and wet, but you could end up hypothermic.
- Have your bike serviced and inspected, especially before going into unknown territory. Bikes should be inspected by an expert at least once a year. Be prepared for minor repairs on the road. Suggested tools to have on-hand include: a multi-tool (which contains several tools & folds like a pocket knife), tire levers, a patch kit, a spare tube and a pump that fits onto your bike or CO2 cartridges. For mountain biking, a chain tool is nice to have as well. Checking that all the tools are in good working order can save you a long walk, as well.
- The area’s long mountain descents can be tiring and deceiving. Many of our roads are narrow and turns often are sharper than expected. Exercise extreme caution; a flat on a descent, a sharp gust of wind or a car crossing a yellow line can be dangerous.If you plan on riding alone, it is important that to let someone know where you are going, your estimated route and expected return time.
- In North Carolina, bicycles are considered vehicles, so if you are riding at night, front and rear lights are required. This is also true of the Blue Ridge Parkway. With numerous tunnels, consider a rear flasher for all day riding to help with visibility.
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