Winter Cycling (it’s more simple than you think)
So, is this the year you’re going to extend your cycling season through the winter? Here are some important tips from one that has commuted at least 24 miles per day, year ’round, for more than 20 years. Some of your most wonderful cycling experiences can be in the cold and snow.
First and foremost, there is no shame in making other arrangements from time to time. Often, when it is icy, below 10f or I just don’t feel it, I ride to the bus stop and from the bus the last segment to work. I have used their racks for years without inident (I love Metrolink). You can buy a punch pass to keep handy in case the weather catches you off gaurd. They’re $10!
Speaking of getting caught off gaurd, your rain gear works wonders as a wind breaking extra layer in a pinch. It’s nice to have your rain cape, pants and rubber shoe covers when the weather turns cold unexpectedly.
Don’t get caught up in the idea that you need to purchase special winter cycling gear. It’s nice, but not necessary. Dress the same as you would to go for an equally long walk in the same weather. Remind yourself, hunters sit still in this for hours. You can do it!
At times I’ve had no choice; I’ve ridden racing bikes, mountain bikes, hybrids and single speeds in weather down to -10f. I haven’t always had multiple bikes. Of course, studded and knobby tires work best, but you don’t see many Dutch folk bothering on their way to work every day.
Staying warm is the key. One of the simplest things you can do is to pat yourself down after your morning shower (don’t towel off). Then rub your skin with baby oil. It will hold in moisture that is good for your skin and keep moisture on your skin from easily evaporating. That helps keep you warm. I contend that it is like having an extra wind break.
Your body loses most of its heat through the top of your head. A wool cap, under your helmet, works wonders and so do ear muffs. I have friends who wear ski helmets. I get too hot without lots of vents.
Layers work better than anything heavy-duty. Old fashioned long underwear is a great foundation. Anything wool is your friend and vanity has no place in Winter cycling.
A little Vaseline on your cheeks and a pair of safety goggles will help keep your face warm in the worst conditions. I like to use a wool scarf, but any face mask helps. A scarf can be wrapped around my face, ears, neck and head. It is easily removed or repositioned as you get warm. I find a turtle neck works best to keep the wind off my neck and chest. It is possible to harm your throat and lungs deep breathing very cold air, so cover your mouth when riding below freezing.
Sweat pants over your jeans and leggings/tights under them, will keep you toasty warm on the coldest days. Ask any ski bum. Rubber shoe covers work better than almost anything for keeping your toes warm (assuming one or two pairs of thick wool socks in your shoes). Bike specific gaiters are nice, but aren’t necessary. I am not a fan of boots because they restrict proper pedaling technique, but many of the best riders I know swear by them.
A thin pair of gloves under a pair of mittens works best to keep hands warm. I have friends that even use hand warmer packets. There is one piece of bike specific Winter gear that works great for everyone except me (my hands get too warm). They are called Poagies or bar mittens. They mount right over your brakes and you just slide your hands right in to them. They are used on dog sleds, snowmobiles, motorcycles and more. Cyclists have loved them for years and they are very affordable to purchase on-line or through Ruby’s.
If you are out riding and stop in for a beer, remove as many layers as you can while inside. You don’t want to get sweaty, then step back out into the cold.
I used to strip down in the restroom, wash up and walk out in a suit before I retired! Now, with the e-bike, I can just wear my work clothes under my winter grear. What are some of your favorite Winter cycling tips?