Riding Through August: How to Make the Most of La Crosse on Two Wheels

August rides hit different. The sun’s still high, but there’s that early hint of fall in the air. The trails are quieter, the bugs have chilled out (mostly), and your favorite routes have that golden late-summer glow.

At Wrench & Roll, this is one of our favorite riding windows. You can ride longer without overheating, the scenery starts to shift, and it's the perfect time to start stacking miles before cooler weather rolls in.

Here’s how to get the most out of August in the saddle—and roll confidently into the fall season ahead.

Ride Early or Late, Not Midday

It’s still hot out there—just not July hot. Morning and evening rides are your sweet spot for comfort, light, and open trail time. The golden hour light across the bluffs or over the marsh? Worth it every time.

Need help setting up lights for dusk rides? We’ll help you find a setup that actually lets you see (and be seen). Check out our bike accessories or come test some in-store.

Think Layers—Just in Case

August is unpredictable. We’ve seen 90 degrees and full-on hoodie weather in the same week. A lightweight vest, arm warmers, or a packable wind shell gives you options without stuffing your saddlebag.

If you’ve never tried layered riding before, we’ll show you how to set it up without overpacking. Or stop in and ask what we wear this time of year. It’s not always pretty, but it works.

Prep for Fall Before It Sneaks Up on You

The best time to get your bike fall-ready? Before the mornings get cold and your chain sounds like a coffee grinder.

Book a mid-season tune-up to check brake pads, tires, and chain wear. We’ll help you get ahead of the seasonal shift while your bike’s still in regular use.

Riding an e-bike? August is a great time to test your range in cooler temps. Not sure your battery’s holding a charge like it used to? We’ll run a battery diagnostic so you’re not surprised on a longer fall ride.

Soak It In

Late summer riding isn’t about big goals or huge mileage. It’s about cruising your favorite loop while the trail’s still green. It’s about one last post-ride ice cream stop. It’s about watching the trees start to turn on the bluff.

This is prime La Crosse riding season—quiet, warm, and just cool enough to go a little longer.

Need a Fall Ride Game Plan?

We’ve got routes for early autumn loops, cold-weather gear advice, and bikes that handle shoulder season riding like champs.

Want help figuring out what tires to run, when to start layering, or which trails hold up best through the shift into fall? Come talk to us.

Need a backup ride while yours gets tuned? Rent one and keep rolling.

And if you’re just trying to make the most of August? We’ll help you do that too.