Winter Cycling Tips

As much as we like to pretend that the winter will never come, it has. For some, this means the end of the cycling season, but it doesn’t have to be. This might be the year that you keep riding – keep commuting by bike. It’s very doable, and we believe in you! And besides, this ain’t exactly Calgary. Toronto, unlike most Canadian cities, receives relatively little snow each winter, which makes it pretty cycling friendly. As long as you are prepared, that is. Here are some tips to keep you safe, and just as importantly, comfortable on your bike in the winter months.

Comfort:

Staying dry and warm will make you a happy camper, no matter the conditions. And there are three distinct areas of the body which could mean the difference between bliss and misery: hands, feet, and ears. Generally speaking, if any of these areas become cold, the rest of you is going to feel the same way.

For your hands, this means getting a pair of gloves which will hold heat, and keep water out. Dry hands are happy hands. For this purpose a set of Gore Bike Wear Countdown III gloves will serve you well, keeping the wet and cold out. Same goes for your feet. Try keeping the wind and water out of your boots with Gore Oxygen II Thermo boot covers, or Gore Alaska II socks. Wind is also your ear’s greatest enemy. Keep them covered.

As for the rest of your body, it’s actually a pretty amazing machine in winter, and will generally keep itself warm. Help it out with a thin wind-breaking jacket like the Chrome Champ, and an insulating base layer like the Merino wool Chrome Cobra, or Burnside. Remember that because you are active, you will be generating more heat that the average city-goer waiting for the street car. There is no need to over-do it.

Finally, put some fenders on your bike, if you haven’t already. Not only will a wet streak up your back be embarrassing when you arrive to work, but it will also chill you to the bone. Close contouring fenders will reduce 98% of the splash-back you get from slush and puddles.

Safety:

It’s going to be a little more slippery than usual, and even the most experienced rider cannot predict the mistakes of careless city drivers in the winter. Wear a helmet, and make sure you are visible to avoid any confusion as the sun sets earlier. You should also have lights and reflective layers. Most winter cycling gear will have reflective panels to help you out. Even a basic light-set like the Knog Frogs will increase your visibility to others dramatically.

There are also tires available that will give you a bit more grip in the wet. Look for something with a bit of texture, but is not extremely knobby. While gnarly knobs seem like the obvious choice, they will pack full of snow, and then you will be rolling on snow balls, which does not help traction. A moderately textured tire will help shed snow, while gripping the wet road better. Though to be honest, most days in TO the street are clear. Many of our hybrids come with tires which are effective in most conditions. For the most extreme conditions, studded tires like the Schwalbe Snow Stud are also available, which will grip into ice with small metal spikes.

Bike Care:

Your bike’s greatest fear in the winter is salt. Try to remove as much salt residue as possible when storing your bike. A simple wipe down with a rag and a brush well get most of that off. Also, keep your chain lubricated with a wet lubricant, or alternatively a wax lube like Pedro’s Ice Wax, which will help shed grime like salt and grit. All these things will increase the life of your parts, and save you money. Winter is hard on bike parts.

Conclusion:

Give riding a shot this winter, and you will find that your upcoming New Year’s resolution to lose the gut and stay fit is taking care of itself. You will save money and frustration by not driving or taking transit. No more standing in the cold waiting for the streetcar. You’ll start getting to work faster and happier. Winter cycling is very doable in this city, and when you are prepared, you might even enjoy it.