Winter Biking Tips

Pedal Positive's Winter Biking Tips

Disclaimer: Safety is your responsibility. These tips are intended solely as supplemental information. Be sure you're proficient in proper techniques and safety requirements before you engage in any biking activity.

Winter and cold weather doesn't have to mean putting your bike away until Spring. Many riders continue riding their bikes through the winter months. Here are ten (10) basic tips to help keep things fun and safe.

1. Wear weather-appropriate gear.

Dress warmly & wisely. Dress in layers so you can add/remove clothing as weather conditions change, when your body heats up from exertion, and after it cools down when you stop. Protect extremities with appropriate weight gloves, head covering/balaclava, socks, shoe covers, etc. Goggles (e.g., ski, dirt bike) are useful in the winter since they provide full eye coverage against cold/wind and debris. There are also options for battery-operated heated gloves, socks, and shirts/vests.

2. See and Be Seen.

With less daylight and fewer people riding, it's important to ensure you're both visible and able to see when riding during the winter months. Wear reflective clothing/gear. Use a white headlight and red rear tail light/reflector on your bike and/or helmet. There are two categories of lights: 1) "To be seen" - i.e., front daytime running light or rear tail light (100+ lumens) and 2) "To see where you're going" - i.e., night riding (~700+ lumens). You can also add wheel lights and string lights that are both cool looking and make you more visible from the side.

3. Setup and maintain your bike.

Lower your tire pressure to the low-end of the recommended setting for better grip. Using wider tires is also helpful. Fenders/mud flaps are useful for keeping debris off of you and your bike. Use wet-weather chain lube for rainy/snowy conditions. Clean your bike after rides to avoid rust and damage from salt/sand. You might also consider getting some Bar Mitts or other brands' versions. They work great for keeping your hands warm, eliminate the need for bulky gloves, and come in various styles for different types of handlebars and hand positions.

4. Get acclimated.

Do some short test rides to get your clothing, gear, and bike setup sorted out for the colder temperatures and surface conditions. This is a good way to quickly figure out what works and what doesn’t before you do your “real” rides. Once you determine what works, you can just check the weather and quickly gear up and go riding.

5. Ride defensively near cars.

Fewer bikes, less daylight, and colder temperatures means drivers might not expect or be able to see you as easily. When riding on roads and crossing intersections, be predictable, choose proper and safe lane position, and avoid vehicle blind spots. Be conservative, stay aware, and expect drivers to be unpredictable.

6. Remember to hydrate.

Even in colder temperatures, we still need to drink during the ride to avoid dehydration. So, be sure to carry your liquids and drink appropriately. You can also take a hot drink (tea, hot chocolate, etc) in a thermos to help stay warm. Note: Contigo bottles work great for both cold and hot!

7. Be extra cautious riding in freezing temperatures.

Even if it's sunny and “dry” out, there’s still a risk of random ice patches if the temperature is at or below freezing (32°F (0°C) or below) from standing water, runoff, etc. So, be very cautious riding in these lower temperatures or just wait for a warmer day.

8. Ride with others to stay motivated and safe.

Getting motivated to ride in the winter can be a challenge for many of us. Riding with others can be a good way to get us moving. A group is also more visible on the road and can provide support if you have a mechanical issue. You can check out Pedal Positive and other area group rides (as scheduled) and/or ride with friends or family members.

9. Be prepared to walk or use alternate transportation in emergencies.

Since there's always a chance your bike might break down or get stolen (hopefully, not!), you should be prepared to walk the same distance you planned to ride and/or utilize public transportation, rideshare, etc. So, be sure to dress appropriately and carry your Metro card, charged phone with rideshare apps, spare cash, etc.

10. Keep your bike and gear ready-to-go.

Even if you're not a cold weather rider, the DMV area typically has random warm days over the winter that feel like Spring or Summer. So, keep an eye on the forecast and keep your bike and gear ready so you can take advantage of those awesome days when they happen!

11. BONUS TIP: Winter is a good time to get bikes, gear, and service.

With many riders "hibernating" for the winter (both mileage and spending-wise) and shops needing to clear out stock, there's a good chance that you can find good deals on bikes and gear. So, it's a good time to get what you need for both the winter and future warmer months. Similarly, it's also a good time to get your bike serviced before the Spring rush and long wait times kick in at your local bike shops.