Ultimate tips for winter cycling
"Did you know that some pro-riders also like inserting newspapers inside their jacket to act as an insulator?"
If you love cycling during the summer and autumn months, there’s no reason why you can’t continue cycling into the winter as well. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for bike rides in the winter:
Keep your head warm
Start with a thin wool cap, a beanie or a classic cycling cap which will block cold winds, remove any sweat and protect your hair. For extra protection go for ear warmer headbands or band-less earmuffs that will keep you warm while keeping you from overheating. To protect your face, wear a pair of cycling glasses which will stop your eyes from tearing up and a bandana or face mask to cover your nose and mouth. Of course, after all this goes your helmet for the all-important protection before you head out!
Layer your core
The base layer can be a polyester based or merino wool based sweating removing fibre which will keep your skin dry by removing excess moisture. Over it goes a thermal jacket which retains warmth and finally the outer waterproof layer to stop any rain or snow. Add more layers inside your outer jacket if you feel the need, did you know that some pro-riders also like inserting newspapers inside their jacket to act as an insulator?
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"For those extra cold days winter cycling overshoes help you to keep the cold and wet out."
"Add bike lights at the front and tail lights so others can see you coming and keep out of your way."
The extremities
As a flexible option, go for arm and leg warmers as you can start your bike ride with them and can always remove them if it gets too warm during your ride. Wear socks made from synthetic fibres that remove sweat and retain heat, while for those extra cold days winter cycling overshoes help you to keep the cold and wet out. Finally, don’t forget your gloves or cycling mittens before you step out into the cold!
Prepare your bike
With the roads getting muddy and slushy during winter, it’s a good idea to add mud guards on your bike both for your own sake and for those cycling or walking behind you. To keep yourself visible during those dark evenings, add bike lights at the front and taillights so others can see you coming and keep out of your way. Before you can pedal off, pack a flask with some hot chocolate or any other hot drink of your choice to get warm from the inside when you take a break during your ride.
