Choosing winter cycling gear
One of the most important considerations when cycling in the winter is dressing appropriately to face colder temperatures.
Winter cycling: Tips and gear to stay warm and safe
It's starting to snow and the temperature is dropping? No problem! You can continue to practice your favourite sport: Yes, cycling in winter is entirely possible—and enjoyable!
Cycling is a great way to stay active, whether it’s commuting to work or for sport. However, living in a country where five months of the year are marked by snow and ice can make outdoor cycling a challenge. But with careful preparation, cycling through winter weather and cold conditions is entirely possible. Read our recommendations below on how to enjoy your winter rides!
Base layers
Base layers are crucial – whether it’s for your morning commute or a leisurely weekend ride, you will certainly need an extra layer for warmth. Keep in mind that some riders are better able to withstand colder temperatures than others, so adjust your clothing accordingly.
For example, if you’re biking to work, you might not need a base layer bottom but rather a pair of waterproof pants that can be easily removed. If you’re riding for fun and expect to be outdoors for a prolonged period of time, breathable base layers are probably your best bet.
Essential clothing and accessories
Base layers aren’t the only thing you’ll need when taking on winter cycling! Consider adding thermal cycling clothing such as waterproof gloves, warm bib tights, neck warmers, hats, head bands, wool socks, sweaters and outer layers like cycling jackets.When adding a hat or headband, make sure your helmet can still fit securely on your head so as to not compromise your safety. We recommend our city bowl helmets that offer a simple design and optional clip-on lights for added visibility. For snowy and windy days, you can opt for a pair of ski goggles to help with both warmth and visibility.
An important aspect often overlooked in winter cycling is proper footwear. You can always go to a specialty shop that specializes in winter cycling shoes, but if you’re on a budget, we have you covered. While you can still use traditional high-cut hiking boots, we recommend low-cut styles that offer better freedom of movement for a more comfortable ride. Add thick socks or waterproof pants to keep snow and rain from entering your shoe.
Choosing the right bike for cold weather cycling
Once you’ve prepared your outfit, the next step is having the proper bike for your adventure. We recommend the RC 100 model, a city bike or even a gravel bike, depending on your personal preference. Whichever you choose, you will still need to make necessary upgrades to yor winter bike to ride safely. For starters, you’ll want a rigid fork with no disk brakes as they can be affected by salt buildup.
Winter cycling accessories and safety features
For winter cycling safety accessories, it all depends on the needs of the rider, but we recommend adding bike lights. With fewer daylight hours, visibility becomes even more important for winter biking. Make sure to equip your bike with high-quality front and rear lights, and consider investing in lights that offer flashing modes for maximum visibility. Reflective tape or stickers on your bike and gear can also significantly improve visibility. A high-visibility vest or jacket is another effective way to ensure that you’re seen by motorists and pedestrians alike. Remember to check the battery life of your bike lights in the cold and be sure to charge them regularly.
For those who plan to bike frequently during the winter months, investing in winter-specific gear can prove beneficial in the long run. Consider acquiring a set of studded tires that can provide better traction on icy surfaces. These tires feature metal studs that grip the ice, significantly improving your stability and confidence when riding. Additionally, you may want to look into mudguards and fenders to help protect from slush and spray during your rides.
Bike maintenance
It’s going to be very important to clean and maintain your bike weekly to prevent build up of salt on components such as your chain and gears. In addition to regular cleaning, it’s crucial to check your bike’s brakes and gears before each ride. Cold temperatures can affect the performance of brake pads and cables, and maintaining them is essential for ensuring a safe cycling experience. Make sure your brake pads are suitable for winter conditions, and consider using a thicker chain lube to prevent it from freezing. Don’t forget to check your tire pressure regularly, as cold temperatures can cause it to drop, impacting both your ride quality and safety.
Bike shops can provide valuable assistance with maintaining your bike, ensuring it remains in optimal condition during the colder months. Did you know that Decathlon has a dedicated workshop to handle all your maintenance needs?
Finally, we still have options for cyclists who’d rather not ride outside during the winter. Our turbo trainer is a great way to continue cycling in the comfort of your own home by converting your bike for indoor use. We have the turbo trainer, indoor tires, mats and other accessories you might need to carry on your cycling journey through the winter season.
Winter riding tips
Before braving snowy roads, it’s essential to feel completely at ease on your bike. Riding in the snow demands a strong sense of balance, confidence and control to navigate challenging conditions safely and smoothly.
Navigating winter weather conditions
When biking in winter conditions, it is crucial to be prepared for all kinds of weather. Snow, ice and slush can transform familiar routes into challenging hazards. Familiarize yourself with local bike lanes and roads that are regularly cleared in winter. Additionally, keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan your rides accordingly. Before heading out, make sure the roads are clear of ice – a quick inspection can save you from dangerous slips!
Mastering specific riding techniques during winter is vital for ensuring your safety. Maintain a lower centre of gravity by bending your knees and keeping your body relaxed. This technique will help you maintain balance, especially on slippery surfaces. Practice smooth, gentle movements when turning or braking to avoid skidding. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and cyclists to allow for increased stopping distance on slick roads. Furthermore, try to avoid sudden acceleration as this can cause loss of traction on icy and snowy areas.
With these tips, you can confidently prepare for a season of winter cycling. Consult our blog articles for helpful guides on winter sports and don’t forget to visit our in-store workshops for maintenance and repairs of your bike and equipment.
