Winter months are enough to keep you inside, much alone out on a cycle. However, if you’re facing the elements on two wheels, we’ve got some safety recommendations for you. We asked our team for any advice on how to survive the winter months on a bike. What they said is as follows.
How do you cycle in the winter?
To begin, keep your feet warm
Nothing is more unpleasant than chilly toes or wet feet. To keep your toes warm on your journey, we recommend wearing thick socks and waterproof shoes (or overshoes).
Wear non-slip footwear that is appropriate for the situation. Not only will your feet remain dry and comfortable, but you’ll also be less likely to slip on your pedals or the ground when you come to a halt.
Protect your hands with waterproof gloves and a cap
Keeping your hands and head warm will significantly improve the quality of your winter ride. While a thick pair of ski winter gloves will sufficiently cover your hands, ensure that you can safely brake, change gear, and grasp your handlebars before setting off.
The same holds true for your head. While a nice hat or knitted headband will give comfort, ensure that it does not restrict your vision or hearing while riding. If you’re riding into icy headwinds, bring a snood, Windstopper, or cycling balaclava.
Be prepared for any weather condition
It is frequently said that those who do not prepare, prepare to fail, and this is especially true for winter riding. Even if you’re pressed for time, check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for winter cycling.
If it’s likely to rain, don your waterproofs and several layers of warm clothing; you won’t regret it when the heavens open. Winter nights are also longer, so always ensure that you are visible to vehicles and pedestrians by wearing high-visibility clothes and checking your bike lights before leaving.
Layer up in numerous tiny layers
Even in the dead of winter, it’s possible to become hot and sweaty while riding your bike.
Rather of donning your largest puffer jacket and risking overheating, wearing many light layers allows you to take items on and off as needed, ensuring you’re not too hot or too cold when you get at your destination.
Waterproofing materials of superior quality
Rather than purchasing’shower-proof’ jackets, ensure that you are wearing high-quality waterproof clothing while riding your bike. Whatever the weather, waterproof hats, gloves, jackets, and pants will keep you dry and (relatively) toasty.
Keep your bike in tip-top shape
After riding in inclement weather, it’s a good idea to give your bike a five-minute tune-up to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Rinse and wipe it down well to remove grime, salt, and grit. Keep a close eye on the chain, gears, brakes, and wheel rims.
Dry it well with an old towel and use a spray of WD40, GT85, or something similar to disperse any remaining moisture in moving parts. Finally, apply some bike oil to the chain and gear system.
Regain control
Whatever the weather, it’s always a good idea to have a set of decent tyres on your bike, but they’re especially critical during the chilly winter months. A decent set of tyres will help you avoid excessive skidding and will also reduce your chances of needing to repair a puncture in the sleet and rain.
Inflate your tyres slightly less than you would in the summer to improve their traction in wet weather.
Exercise caution when pedaling
Pedals also get slippery when wet. If you’re uncomfortable with clip-in pedals, consider purchasing some with additional grip.
They’re rather simple to install, or your local bike shop may assist you if you’re having trouble.
Proceed cautiously
It will take some time for your body, particularly your joints and muscles, to warm up properly, so avoid sprinting out of the home. Allow additional time for your body to acclimate. Cycle at a slower pace in rainy and snowy conditions.
There is no reason to jeopardize your safety for a few minutes.
Keep your head out of the gutter
In the gutter, puddles are more likely to form, and you’re best off sticking in the center of the lane, where cars have drove and cleared the snow.
Keep a safe distance from leaves, manhole covers, and road cracks, as they might be unexpectedly slippery.
Remain in command
Snow and ice are particularly dangerous cycling conditions, therefore you must always maintain complete control of your bike. When riding on settled snow, brake frequently to clear the rims, as braking on wet rims can take up to six times longer. If you come across ice, maintain a straight course, avoid pedaling, and avoid braking, as this may lead you to slip and fall.
If you’re venturing out on a bike in winter conditions, exercise caution and avoid putting yourself in danger. In inclement weather, you may want to consider wearing a helmet if you are not accustomed to doing so.
Additionally, if the conditions get too perilous, do not be ashamed to park the bike in the shed and return inside.