Why Fall Riding Demands More From Your Bike
Fall motorcycle preparation isn’t just smart—it’s survival. The cool air and blazing skies beg you to ride, but wet leaves, cold mornings, and shorter days don’t care if you’re ready or not.
One missed action, and that “perfect ride” ends with your bike on the shoulder and you cursing yourself.
This isn’t a fluffy guide—it’s a simple handbook that keeps your Harley, Indian, or Metric running sharp, from fast fixes to upgrades that change the whole game.
Maintenance That Can’t Wait
Grip Is Everything: Tires & Pressure
Cooler temps drop PSI overnight. Low pressure = less control. Check it before every ride and inspect your tread. If your tires are worn, replace them now—fall roads don’t give second chances.
Braking Through the Leaves
Wet leaves mimic black ice. Weak pads or warped rotors make stopping dangerous. Bleed your lines, check fluid, and upgrade to precision rotors if your setup feels soft.
Beat the Cold-Start Blues
Cold kills weak batteries. Clean terminals, check voltage, and if yours is sluggish, replace it. A dead battery in 45° weather is misery you don’t need.
Fresh Fluids for Cold Weather
Cold thickens oil and slows response. Do a full oil change and check the coolant and brake fluid. Don’t let dirty fluids drag your bike down.
Don’t Disappear in the Dark
Less daylight means more night rides. Dim lights are invisible lights. Replace weak bulbs, clean lenses, and consider an LED upgrade.
Gear That Wins Against Fall Chill
- Layered Jackets: Adapt to temp swings without overheating.
- Waterproof Gloves: Wet + cold hands kill focus fast.
- Heated Grips or Seat Pads: Not a luxury once temps drop.
- High-Vis Gear: Sunsets come earlier—make sure drivers see you.
Upgrades That Transform Autumn Riding
Billet Wheels That Do More Than Shine
SMT billet aluminum wheels aren’t just eye candy. They’re lighter, stronger, and built to handle unpredictable roads. Choose chrome, black, or contrast cut—or powder coat in 6,500+ colors to match your fall scheme.
Bulldog Fat Tire Confidence
The Bulldog 5.5” fat tire pioneered by SMT, plants you firmly on the road. More grip, more balance, more aggressive-looking stance—exactly what you need when leaves and rain test traction.
Fenders & Covers That Protect and Flex Style
Fall brings road debris, gravel, and grit. Fenders and custom air cleaner covers protect your ride while elevating its look.
If Fall Is the Last Ride: Winter Storage Prep
Not every rider pushes through winter. If you’re parking it, do it right:
- Fill tank + add stabilizer – avoids condensation.
- Fresh oil change – dirty oil corrodes engines.
- Battery tender – keeps charge alive.
- Wash, dry & cover – dust and moisture are silent killers.
Store it wrong, and spring costs you time and money. Store it right, and you’re firing up first try.
Why SMT Wheels Are Built for Riders Like You
- American-Manufactured: Cut from 6061-T6 billet aluminum in our Glendale, AZ facility.
- Perfect Fitment: Built for Harley-Davidson, Indian, and Metric motorcycles.
- Design Freedom: 16–34” sizes, 2D or 3D cuts, contrast finishes, and endless color options.
- Fast + Flexible: In-stock wheels ship quickly. Financing options keep upgrades within reach.
- Lifetime Structural Guarantee: Confidence in every mile.
Don’t Let Autumn Catch You Off Guard
Fall riding is only unforgiving if you roll in unprepared. Lock in your fall motorcycle preparation now and keep your Harley, Indian, or Metric running harder, longer, and sharper than the rest.
SMT has the wheels, parts, and upgrades built to carry you through the season. It’s time to own your journey and extend your freedom.