The Best Season for Motorcycle Riding? Let’s Break It Down.

By Kevin "Elvis" Vaughn, General Manager, House of Harley-Davidson

Ask any rider, and you'll hear a different answer. The truth is, every season brings its own unique vibe, challenges, and rewards. So, which one is the best? That’s up to each individual rider. Here’s a breakdown of what makes each season special—minus winter (we all know ice and motorcycles don’t mix).

Spring: The Season of New Beginnings

Spring feels like a fresh start. After a long winter, there’s nothing like getting back on the bike and feeling the cool breeze. It’s the time of year when nature wakes up, and every ride is framed by blossoming flowers, budding trees, and green fields. The roads feel fresh, and the excitement of the first ride of the season is unmatched.

• Pros: Cooler temperatures mean comfortable rides. The roads are less crowded, and everything feels new again. It’s the perfect season for scenic routes and day trips. Plus, no extreme heat to deal with yet.
• Challenges: Spring showers can pop up unexpectedly, making roads slick. You’ll also need to keep an eye on early-season debris—gravel, sand, and leftover salt from winter can make for tricky riding conditions.

Summer: The Season of Long Days

Summer is the classic riding season. It’s about sunny skies, open roads, and the freedom of long days where the sun sets late and the evenings are warm. For many riders, this is what motorcycle riding is all about—no gear adjustments, just you and the bike for hours on end.

• Pros: Consistent weather, extended daylight, and plenty of opportunities for both planned and spontaneous rides. Summer gives you a chance to cover serious miles and explore further.
• Challenges: Heat can be an issue, especially on longer rides. Staying hydrated and wearing the right gear becomes crucial. And let’s not forget the increase in traffic during peak vacation season—those picturesque roads are no secret.

Fall: The Season of Crisp Air and Bold Colors

Fall is the rider’s wildcard season. It’s unpredictable but often rewarding. The mornings are cool, the afternoons can be warm, and the scenery is unbeatable, with the leaves changing colors. There’s something special about the crisp air, the sound of leaves rustling next to the road as your exhaust kicks them up, and that feeling when the sun starts to dip below the horizon, making you question your gear choices.

• Pros: Cooler temperatures make for comfortable riding, and the scenery is unbeatable. Fall rides are filled with vibrant landscapes, fewer bugs, and a sense of calm that comes with the end of the busy summer season.
• Challenges: The weather can change quickly, and you often gamble on whether you’ve dressed appropriately. Layering is key, but there’s always that moment when you wonder if you brought enough—or too much. Shorter days also mean less daylight for long rides.

So, Which Season Wins?

The answer is personal. For me, it’s fall. There’s nothing quite like a crisp morning ride, the gamble of the day warming up, and that moment when the sun sets and you ask yourself, “Did I wear the right gear today?”

It’s the thrill of not knowing what’s around the corner—just the open road, the changing colors, and maybe a new excuse to pick up another piece of gear.

Which season speaks to you?