What You Need To Know To Cycle In Winter

With winter looming on the horizon, many cyclist in colder parts are planning to exchange their two wheels for a treadmill or elliptical trainer upon first snowfall. Although hanging out in freezing temperatures isn't quite favorable, it is still possible to enjoy the benefits of cycling in winter when the weather is good. With a few bits of knowledge, you can be sure that you'll be ready to face the road, even if it's covered in snow. To get you in the know, here are some tips to help you cycle through winter wonderlands.

Check Your Bike And The Weather
With ice, snow, all winter road conditions, it's impossible to cycle without having the knowledge, gear, and tune up to get you through. This involves monitoring the condition of the roads, daily weather patterns, gear and break checks, lubing the chains, and having a great pair of snow tires. If you want to keep your bike in top shape, keep it indoors or covered when you're not using it.

Dress Warm
As you ride, the body will heat up and become less sensitive to the cold you may even want to throw off a few layers after. The rules to cycling warm in winter, is to not to over dress and wear layers that you can easily throw off and put on. A thermal base layer, neck warmer, arm and knee warmers, and wool socks are just key layers I can't go without during winter.

Equipment to Prevent Moisture
Moisture is the worst enemy of cycling in winter. To enable cycling enthusiast to continue enjoying road cycling or commuting in all weather conditions, cycling manufactures have created moisture proof technical clothing and tools. 45NRTH manufactures tires, gloves, pants, shoes, and wool specifically for cycling throughout all seasons. You'll also need a good wet lube to keep your bike chains in top gear from the snow or cold rain.

Visibility
The winter cold is not only a cyclists concern, visibility is too. If your riding in urban landscapes, the goal is to be seen by drivers and pedestrians rather than to show the way. If you ride on country roads the key is brightness to see ahead and to be seen. For urban lights, check out these LED lights by Knog Blinder. For country riding, these Cateye 300 Volt lights should guide you through.

What are your favorite tips to keep cycling in winter?

photo courtesy of franz-michael s. mellbin