In Bellingham, we just received the first mid-land snow, rain is in the forecast daily for the next week (and likely for the next 6 months), and I could really use the heat that doesn't work in my house - Fall is here!

    BUT! Just because the sun is shining less and it's raining more, doesn't mean we have to ride bikes any less. In fact, I think I can confidently say it's everyone at The Lost Co's favorite time to ride. Matt Hunter's words from the Fall segment in the Anthill Film's classic movie "Seasons" seems to jump to mind:

"The Fall, I think, is the raddest of all...things slow down a bit,
and the dirt gets good and the air's not all hot when you're trying to ride at mid day"

    What follows that quote is an iconic Whistler segment. If you haven't seen Seasons, put a pause on reading this and click here to watch the Fall segment or here to watch the-then-up-and-comer Stevie Smith's Spring segment, then come on back and read on.

    While initially stepping out of the car at the trailhead might be a task itself (especially on those cold days), your bike may need a small makeover to prepare for the puddles, slick corners, and flying mud. That said, you will with out a doubt be handsomely rewarded - less people, tackier dirt, mild temperatures, and a-mud-splattered-and-grinning-ear-to-ear-face make Fall a REALLY fun time to ride. To help maximize fun, we grouped up a few items to help you prepare for the inevitable season change.

We hope some of these items will make riding in the rain and mud as fun for you as it is for all of us at The Lost Co!

    Potentially the most important item to get your bike prepped for Fall and Winter are tires. When the dirt gets slick, combat the slop with better equipped tires. Large, spikey nobs with a soft compound will be your best friend on those loose corners and steep sections when braking traction matters most.

    Chances are you already have a flying mud stopper, but if not, fenders are a must have. Plus, they add a nice personalization touch to your bike. We are a huge fan of Ground Keeper Fenders, as we have some of our own custom Lost Co Ones!

    Another must have moving into next few months. Not only will gloves help give you traction on your grips, but they will also help keep your fingers warm. Clear-lensed goggles are another nice touch for the mud that gets passed your fender and onto your face. Mountain biking is tricky when you can't see, so remain vigilant with a fresh pair of goggles!

Make sure you have fresh pads for maximum confidence approaching those slick corners!
(Don't see the pads for your brake below? Check out all of the brake pads we have here)