With Fall Comes the Leaves...

[senator]

Since this has been my first year riding, I have yet to experience what it's like riding in the fall. Specifically, I'm curious how the leaves on the ground affect seeing the trail and traction. I'm assuming, since my car slips on leaves, that my bike will as well. But I'm more concerned about hidden obstacles (like stumps or sticks) beneath the leaves or if it's even a problem. If it is, are there trail days to clear the leaves? Or, do the riders clean the leaves naturally with inertial breeze?

[g_barr]

I was riding Accotink one fall day and approached a normal looking descent covered with leaves. Much to my consternation, the leaves were hiding a lovely, rider-throwing rut. Above ground projections don't seem to be a problem unless the leaf cover is really thick.

[Squirrel Girl]

It's all part of the challenge and the fun! :eek: :)

[Dirt]

What you can't see won't hurt you.... much. ;)

Pete

[tsunayoshi]

Since this has been my first year riding, I have yet to experience what it's like riding in the fall. Specifically, I'm curious how the leaves on the ground affect seeing the trail and traction. I'm assuming, since my car slips on leaves, that my bike will as well. But I'm more concerned about hidden obstacles (like stumps or sticks) beneath the leaves or if it's even a problem. If it is, are there trail days to clear the leaves? Or, do the riders clean the leaves naturally with inertial breeze?

Wait until your first night ride in a section you are not familiar with that is covered in leaves, your ability to remain upright with both tires sliding different directions will improve quickly!

My first real ride in the bowl at Wakefield was such a night, and the leave were wet.

[MyOtherBrotherL]

What you can't see won't hurt you.... much. ;)

Pete

Except STEALTH Golf Balls............

[werace424]

The leaves just get ground up naturally.

It is part of the challenge. Just stay loose. BTW, I have only ever had problems cornering. Damp or dry leaves get slick on the corners.

[peter6061]

My only issue with leaves is after a rain when there are slick rocks or roots hiding under them. Your front wheel can magically travel many feet to the side very quickly.

Oh, and the leaves are usually ground up / gone by winter.

[mike a]

My first ride at Gambrill SP was in the fall while there were still a lot of leaves on the ground...that was fun... :(

[senator]

Oh, and the leaves are usually ground up / gone by winter.
Right in time for snow cover! :D

[tuba_transport]

my car slips on leaves, that my bike will as well.

You can't ride in leaves. How dare you. No one ever rides on leaves. You should be ashamed of yourself. Wait until the trail is cleared of leaves by the next day's winds.

The nerve of some people.
</remove tongue from cheek>

[senator]

You can't ride in leaves. How dare you. No one ever rides on leaves. You should be ashamed of yourself. Wait until the trail is cleared of leaves by the next day's winds.

The nerve of some people.
</remove tongue from cheek>
I deserved to be called out for such wussage. :D