October 24, 2011 – Tune into CTV’s news at noon to learn tips on how to prepare for the cold biking months ahead.
This great city of ours happens to be cold and snowy for most of the year. So, you’ve decided that you want to keep on riding all year round? Congratulations! Whatever your reasons–saving money, reducing your carbon footprint, exercise–you will want to prepare a little ahead of time to make sure that you stay safe and warm this winter biking season. Here are some tips to help you get started on your journey to extend your bikeable days.
Your Bike for winter riding
Tires – For the first while, you can probably get away with slightly deflated, knobby tires, but once the snowpack gets thick and ice appears, you’ll want to invest in studded tires (they have wide treads to push snow away and 100-300 steel spikes poking through for traction). If you can only afford one, use it as your front tire because it’ll stear your way right through the tough patches.
Frame – Winter biking is wet and slushy and tough on any bike. Many people pick up a cheap beater-bike for winter biking. Make sure you lubricate all moving parts regularly (use a wet lube on your chain) to keep things moving smoothly. Try to store your bike out of the elements when not in use.
Accessories – Fenders are important for keeping back-splash at a minimum, but try the style that attaches to the seat-post. Close-fitting fenders will get clogged up with ice and snow fast, so look for a pair with a lot of clearance. Winters=shorter days. Invest in a good set of bike lights and make sure you have lots of reflectors installed. Accordingly, try to dress in bright colours, ideally with reflectors right on your clothing, which brings us how to dress properly…
Your Clothing for winter riding
Layers – The temperature may be cold, but your body temperature will get hot, so don’t overdress. For your core, think in three layers: moisture-wicking layer next to skin, then an insulating layer, then finally a wind/water-resistant layer on the outside.
Protect your extremities – Find a toque that fits under your helmet. Eye goggles may look funny, but make for a much more comfortable ride (the wind can be very cold on your eyes and they tend to tear up). Use a balaclava or scarf to keep the wind off your face. Invest in warm and waterproof gloves. I like lobster-style ones to allow access to the brakes. Avoid cold wet feet by covering up (a plastic bag can be used in a pinch, but if you want to commute regularly, it is worth it to invest in some waterproof booties that slip over your shoes) and wearing nice warm socks (wool stays warm even when wet).
Your riding style for winter biking
Be a defensive biker and allow for more time for everything–breaking on ice take longer, biking on ice takes longer, allow yourself a little extra time. Use your back breaks more. Major traffic routes tend to be more clear, but have more traffic, while smaller streets may have fewer cars, but are usually not as well maintained and may have ruts and snow banks. Plan your route according to your comfort level. Gear shifters can sometimes freeze up in the winter, so some riders just stay in a low gear all winter long.
Most of all, have fun! Happy riding!
