If you are still getting out on the bike there are several things you can do to make your ride more enjoyable and safe in the colder and often wetter winter weather.
Your Bike
Always make sure that you go out with a set of lights, even if you are heading out in the morning, a setting sun and low clouds will soon make visibility harder and I have been caught out by cycling longer than expected on a short winter's day.
Essential Bike Setup
Wheels and Tyres
Put your race wheels away and stick a bomb-proof set of winter tyres on your bike, something with a little more grip and greater durability will help prevent punctures.
Tyre Pressure
As it is slightly colder, run your tyres on a lower PSI, I usually lose about 10-15 psi during colder weather, this helps you gain better traction.
Mudguards
Fit a set of mudguards especially if you are riding in a group, even on your own it keeps your backside dry and your components cleaner.
Post-Ride Maintenance
After your ride, give your bike a good clean, by de-greasing the drive components, thoroughly removing all dirt, salt and then the degreaser. Dry your bike and then re-lube the drive components. Check your tyres for any flint, grit, or holes, remove them, deflate the tyre and put a dab of Super Glue which will seal the hole.
Your Clothing
The longer you ride a bike the more you will come to appreciate quality cycle clothing, as it can be a miserable day when you are cold and wet on the bike on a long ride. Look at the conditions before you go out, experience has taught me to always carry a waterproof jacket.
Winter Clothing Essentials
Footwear
- • Winter cycling shoes (half size bigger)
- • Two pairs of socks
- • Toe warmers (neoprene covers)
- • Overboots (wear leggings over them)
Body Layers
- • Bib trousers/leggings
- • Bib shorts over the top
- • Quality thermal layers
- • Winter jacket with extra pockets
Hands & Head
- • Quality gloves (ski gloves for dry days)
- • Waterproof gloves as backup
- • Buff and cap for warmth
- • Balaclava for extreme cold
Eye Protection
- • Glasses are essential
- • Interchangeable lenses
- • Protection from glare and rain
- • Safety for downhill speeds
Pro Tip: Gloves
Get a quality pair of gloves, the one thing that will break you on a winter ride is having cold hands, especially if they are wet. If it's dry I will often wear ski gloves as they are designed to keep your hands warm, but beware they are not waterproof, so I always have a set of waterproof gloves tucked away.
Your Ride
Plan your route, and make sure you carry a mobile phone. Ride defensively, and take your time going around bends and when braking especially when it's cold and wet. Watch out for frozen road surfaces, as a shaded area on a cold winter day may not clear.
Safety & Preparation
Before You Go
- • Start with hot water (not boiling) in drink bottles
- • Carry spare tubes, tools, small pump
- • Plan your route and carry a mobile phone
While Riding
- • Ride defensively and take your time
- • Watch for frozen road surfaces in shaded areas
- • Be extra careful on bends and when braking
- • Watch out for car drivers - be seen and be safe
It's miserable when you have an issue that you can't fix and your pick-up is over an hour away. Watch out for car drivers as they rarely change their driving to suit the conditions, be seen and be safe.
The Bottom Line
Have a coffee and cake break, it's what it's all about. Enjoy your winter riding with proper preparation, quality gear, and a focus on safety. The right equipment and mindset can make winter cycling not just bearable, but genuinely enjoyable.
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