Cycling in the winter doesn’t have to be uncomfortable
Dark mornings, cold weather and wet clothes doesn’t sound too appealing for your daily ride does it?
Cycling in the winter can be challenging, but by following the tips in our Survival Guide it can help keep you in the saddle and enjoy cycling all year round!
Motivation in the winter is something everyone struggles with. The last thing you want to do is hop on your bike when its pouring with rain or blowing a gale! We must admit, nothing beats riding along with the sun shining and sunglasses on, but there are many benefits to training in the winter, which a lot of us are missing out on.
Due to the colder weather our bodies have to work harder to stay warm, which means we burn more calories whilst riding (bonus!). It’s also great at tackling those winter blues, as when we exercise our brain releases natural endorphins making us feel happier and energised.
So, below is our guide to keep you smiling and ‘riding in style’…even if you can’t feel your fingers!
1. Wear the Right Clothes
Having the right gloves for the job makes all the difference
Wearing the correct clothes is of course the number one priority when preparing for a winter ride. Keeping your core warm is key, so investing in a good base layer is a must to make your cold rides more comfortable and enjoyable.
From here, many of us have the temptation to throw on as many layers as possible to tackle the cold, but you have to consider how hot you will get when you start cycling. You don’t want to be dripping in sweat because you put one too many fleeces on! This will make you feel uncomfortable or clammy and lead to a very miserable ride. Using cycling specific clothes, which are lightweight and breathable, will ensure the correct fit and protection from moisture build up. This layered up with a good quality wind/waterproof will keep you at the perfect temperature.
It’s also important to remember to keep your extremities warm, so investing in a warm pair of thermal gloves and socks, as well as balaclava if it’s super cold, will reduce heat loss in your hands, feet and head which tend to get the coldest first.
2. Stay Visible
Good quality lights won’t break the bank
With less daylight hours and more gloomy days in the winter months, it can be more difficult for road users to spot a cyclist, so making sure you are seen is really important. Using small, rechargeable lights that won’t break the bank is an easy fix to this problem. Wearing bright, reflective clothes is also another way to stay visible. Even if you’re day riding, the more you can stand out the better.
3. Look After Your Bike
Checking your tyres prior to a ride takes less than 10 minutes
Taking care of your bike all year round is important, but even more so in winter. Wet weather can be particularly harsh on chains and rims, so it’s important to check and maintain these areas regularly, keeping your chain well-oiled for a smooth ride.
Salty water from gritted roads is something hard to avoid when cycling in the colder months, but without the correct care, it can interfere with gear shifting and could lead to you being stuck on the side of a road on a very cold day (not fun). By removing excess grime and taking care of your bike you will enjoy a problem free winter ride.
4. Tyres
Sadly, cycling in the winter months always leads to more punctures with mucky, wet roads not providing the ideal surface for your racing rubbers. Shards of glass and other sharp object can be easily hidden in slush at the side of roads, which can damage your inner tubes. Making sure you carry a pump and spare tubes will save you a world of problems if you’re unfortunate enough to incur these issues.
You can keep a combo tool, spare tube and pump in a small saddle bag
5. Ride with Friends
Riding with friends can give you that extra reason to get out of bed!
As motivation levels hit an all-time low in the winter months, cycling with friends can help boost morale and make the experience more enjoyable. You can take turns shielding each other from the icy winds, as well as shouting encouragement and having a good old chat, making time fly by.
Riding in a group is also a safer option if someone experiences a mechanical problem along the way. Two heads are better than one, right?
6. Always be Prepared
Winter can be very unpredictable, so make sure you check the weather forecast before your ride and plan your route accordingly. It is also a good idea to have a backup route in mind, just in case you come across something unexpected; black ice, no thanks!
Always pack a charged phone and a small amount of money in case of emergency. You don’t want to leave yourself with no options.
Make sure you and your bike are ready to face more extreme conditions by fuelling up before your ride and ensuring your bike is functioning correctly.
It’s always best to be over prepared and ready for the worst situation, but of course within reason. We don’t want you carrying around everything, but the kitchen sink next time you decide to hit the saddle!
Ride in Style®
