As the seasons change so should the preparation of your bicycle and you. Winter weather can be particularly harsh on bikes and rider so its important to make sure you have the right equipment.
Bike Preparation
Wash your bicycle and inspect your bike for signs of wear or damage on tyres, frame, chain, brakes and replace if necessary. Clean and lubricate the chain with a winter-specific product or use a wet lube. Chains need lubricating more regulary during the winter. Lubricate all moving parts on derailleurs and cables.
Consider changing tyres for wider ones with more of a tread pattern. Puncture resistant tyres might help prevent you having to mend a puncture in the rain ! Lowering the tyre pressure a little can help grip on wet roads. Fitting mudguards keeps alot of water and grime off both the bike and the rider.
Regularly check your brake pads for wear and replace if necessary. Winter riding can wear pads quicker.
Make sure brakes are correctly adjusted and effective.
Ensure you are easily seen whilst on your bike. Front and rear lights are a must ! Consider attaching reflective tape to panniers, bags etc. If possible store your bike indoors, if not use a quality weatherproof cover.
Many people have a “winter bike” for use during bad weather. This can be an inexpensive mountain bike, cyclocross bike, gravel bike, hybrid or road bike.
Rider Preparation
The main rider preparation for winter riding is to get some good quality winter clothing including thermal layers, waterproof outer layers, gloves. Chose fluorescent colours to make yourself more visible. Get some winter cycling shoes / boots. Overshoes are excellent for adding extra protection from the cold and wet. A helmet liner or skullcap will give extra warmth. Leg and arm warmers can be used for added warmth. You can even buy electrically heated gloves and socks.
It can take a while for your joints and muscles to warm up during the winter months so give yourself time for your muscles to warm up.
Ride defensively ! Be careful of leaves and leaves and manhole covers as they become very slippery in the wet. Be aware that in the dark and wet drivers will have much less visabilty. Obviously when temperatures are near or below freezing be careful of ice. Sometimes its better to walk or take the car, bus or train !
