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Things to keep in mind when the temps drop

  • Ease into Winter riding. Conditions are more challenging than riding in warmer seasons, so start with shorter rides to get acclimated and get your gear worked out.
  • Ride the bike you already know. You’re used to how your bike handles; no need to buy a winter-specific bike—just add or upgrade a few components on your current one.
  • Gear up to see and be seen. Prepare for riding after dark by significantly beefing up your lighting, including bright headlights, safety lights and reflective gear.
  • Check and adjust your tire pressure. Air pressure loss happens faster in cold temps; inflate tires to the low end of the recommended range. Consider switching to grippier studded tires.
  • Dress for warmth. Wear layers so you can adjust to changing conditions; you also need rain gear, gloves, and a warm hat and bike shoes.
  • Winterize your riding tactics. If a bike lane or shoulder has muck or ice, take the right traffic lane instead. Ride relaxed to improve handling on bumpy, icy or wet roads.
  • Clean and cover your bike. Grime and/or ice can build up quickly on winter roadways and, in turn, on your drivetrain, frame and other components.
  • Keep electric bike batteries warm. Cold temps drain the battery quickly, so store yours indoors and use riding tactics that conserve power.
  • Fat-tire biking: Special mountain bikes outfitted with extremely wide tires let you ride on snow-packed terrain in the wintertime. Check this link to learn more.

TIPS FOR WINTER RIDING : from your local bike shop mechanic.

Maintenance is equally if not more important during winter. Keeping your chain well lubed avoids excessive wear and tear. Using a decent wet-lube is a good idea and remember to wash your bike to keep that salt away. 

Along with regular maintenance, one of the major things to think about with riding in the winter is tire choice. Mounting a tire with a more suitable tread pattern and width will increase contact and grip. You could even consider something with studs for those real nasty, icy days. With the proper tire, you're granted a much more predictable ride. 

Lastly, it might sound obvious, but put a pair of decent mudguards on. Not those little click-on ones that still throw up all manner of debris from the road, but some massively long and all-covering ones. We thoroughly recommend them for winter! 

Last, last thing! Lights. Be seen and be safe. Please ride responsibly and buy lights that are appropriate to where you ride. You need to see what is ahead, as well as be easily visible by other road users. We recommend a strong taillight and a front light which exceeds 500 lumens. 

Finally, of course, make sure you are bundled up. Your mom wasn't just nagging when you were a kid, she also knew what she was talkin' about. Make sure to have something to stop that freezing wind from hitting your skin when you're zooming down the road or trail and something insulated to keep your heat in. 

Stop by to chat more about what you need to keep riding through the winter months. 

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