Winter Bike Commuting – How to Stay Safe and Warm

Biking to work or school during the winter months can be a daunting task, but it’s not impossible. With the right gear and preparation, you can stay warm, dry, and safe while commuting on your bike. In this guide, we’ll provide tips and advice to help you navigate the challenges of winter bike commuting.

Dress in Layers

One of the most important things to remember when winter bike commuting is to dress in layers. This will allow you to adjust your clothing as your body temperature changes throughout your ride. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Add a mid-layer for insulation, such as a fleece or down jacket. Finally, top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect you from the elements. Don’t forget to cover your extremities with gloves, a hat, and warm socks.

A hat or windproof fleece hat

Wool base layer

Wool shirt

Windproof fleece coat or other windproof coats you are comfortable with

Light windproof jacket on top to keep the cold wind off your skin

Long underwear

Jeans or thermal trousers 

Invest in Thermal Clothes

Winter bike commuting can be a challenge, but with the right gear, it can be a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Thermal clothing is a must-have for any winter cyclist, as it helps regulate body temperature and insulate against the cold. While these garments may be more expensive than regular clothing, they are a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to stay warm and comfortable while biking in the winter. 

While some commuters may opt for just long underwear and jeans, investing in thermal trousers and jackets can make a big difference in staying warm and looking professional. These items can help you dress appropriately for the weather while still maintaining a polished appearance.

Invest in Quality Winter Gear

When it comes to winter bike commuting, investing in quality gear is essential. This includes:

• a good pair of waterproof and insulated boots
• gloves that are both warm and allow for good grip on your handlebars
• A high-quality jacket and pants that are both windproof and waterproof will also make a big difference in keeping you warm and dry during your ride
• Invest in good lights and reflectors to ensure you are visible to drivers in low-light conditions

Use Lights and Reflective Gear

One of the most important things you can do to stay safe while winter bike commuting is to use lights and reflective gear. With shorter daylight hours and potentially snowy or foggy conditions, it’s important to make sure you are visible to drivers and other cyclists. Invest in a good set of front and rear lights, and consider adding reflective tape or clothing to your outfit. This will help ensure that you are seen by others on the road, reducing the risk of accidents.

Check Your Bike Before You Ride

Before heading out on your winter bike commute, it’s important to check your bike to ensure it’s in good working condition. This includes checking the tire pressure, brakes, and chain. Cold temperatures can cause the air in your tires to contract, so make sure to inflate them to the recommended pressure. Additionally, salt and other winter road debris can cause wear and tear on your bike, so it’s important to regularly clean and maintain it throughout the winter season.

Check the Tires’ Pressure

Winter bike commuting requires extra attention to tire pressure. Maintaining appropriate pressure is crucial for a smooth ride and avoiding punctures, especially in snowy or icy conditions. However, the perfect pressure can vary depending on factors such as your weight and the specifics of your bike. It’s important to find the right balance to ensure a safe and comfortable ride. 

While road tires are typically inflated to a pressure of 80 to 130 psi, it’s important to note that higher pressure can lead to less friction with the ground, especially when it’s wet or icy. To ensure a safer ride, consider lowering your tire pressure during the winter months.

Studded Tires

To make your ride safer and more comfortable, consider swapping out your regular tires for studded bike tires. These specialized tires have small studs that provide extra grip on slippery surfaces, similar to chains or studs for cars. With the right equipment, you can enjoy a smooth and safe ride even in the coldest winter weather. 

Winter bike commuting can be made safer with the use of studded tires. While it is possible to stud a tire yourself, it can be time-consuming and prone to errors. It is recommended to purchase pre-studded tires and switch them out for your summer tires during the winter months. Popular brands for studded tires include Nokian/Suomi and Schwalbe, which offer a variety of options to choose from. 

One essential piece of gear is a tire with studs to provide traction on icy roads. The Schwalbe Marathon Winter Studded Tire is a great option, with four rows of studs for safety while turning and on straight pavement. The PLUS version offers extra puncture protection, but some cyclists have found the normal version to be just as effective. With the right tire, winter bike commuting can be a safe and enjoyable way to stay active and avoid traffic. 

When it comes to tires, it’s important to measure your current tire and ensure that the new tire you choose fits properly. Keep in mind that studded tires may be necessary for icy conditions, and it’s worth doing some research to find the best option for your bike and commute.

While it’s ideal to have studded tires on both wheels, if you can only afford one, it’s best to put it on the front wheel. This is because losing control of the front wheel can be more dangerous and difficult to control than losing control of the back wheel. With the right gear and precautions, winter bike commuting can be a fun and eco-friendly way to get around. Stay safe and warm out there!  

Fenders

While waterproof clothing is essential, fenders can provide an extra layer of protection from snow and slush kicked up by your wheels. Even if you have waterproof pants, fenders can still be a good investment. For more information on fenders and other rain gear, check out my rain gear guide. 

If you’re planning on commuting by bike during the winter months, it’s important to keep your fenders clean. As snow and slush accumulate, it can create a buildup that can affect your bike’s performance. Take a few minutes every now and then to knock off any excess snow or give your fenders a quick clean to ensure a smooth ride.

Plan Your Route and Be Aware of Road Conditions

Before heading out on your winter bike commute, take some time to plan your route and be aware of any potential hazards or road conditions. Check the weather forecast and be prepared for any snow or ice on the roads. Consider taking a different route that may be safer or better maintained during winter months. It’s also important to be aware of any construction or road closures that may affect your commute. By planning ahead and staying aware of road conditions, you can stay safe and avoid any potential accidents.

Where to Ride in the Snow

Winter bike commuting can be challenging due to the disappearance of bike lanes and the presence of packed snow on the roads. It’s important to find a safe line of fresher snow to ride through and avoid riding too close to the edge of the road. Taking the lane may be necessary at times, but remember to ride predictably and be aware of passing cars. On the bright side, cars are more likely to give you more passing room in the winter. Experiment with different strategies to find what works best for you. 

In some areas, it may be possible to ride on sidewalks if there is enough space, particularly if the roads are narrowed by snow piles. However, if you come across greenways or sidewalks that are not plowed, it’s important to reach out to your city officials and report the issue. Many cities have apps or hotlines, such as 311, that you can use to make your voice heard and potentially get the paths cleared for safer winter biking.

Poor Road Conditions

It’s important to be aware of the increased risk of slipping and sliding on smooth surfaces, and to take extra precautions when navigating curves and bends. To stay safe, avoid sudden movements and test the area before riding through it at full speed. With practice and patience, you can learn to manage your bike on slippery surfaces and enjoy a safe and comfortable winter commute.

Winter Bike Storage

Winter bike commuting can be a fun and exhilarating experience, but it also comes with some challenges. One of the biggest challenges is dealing with the snow and dirt that accumulates on your bike during your ride. Leaving your bike outside without any protection can cause it to age quickly and make your seat and handlebars uncomfortably cold for your next ride. To avoid this, it’s recommended to cover your bike with a protective covering to prevent it from getting covered in new snow and dirt. 

To prevent melting snow from damaging your floors, consider using a floormat rug under your bike. Additionally, it’s important to regularly clean off any snow or salt that may have accumulated on your bike to prevent rust and corrosion. A quick wipe down with a wet rag or a spray of water can go a long way in keeping your bike in top shape during the winter months. 

Using a sturdy U-lock is essential for keeping your bike secure, especially in snowy or icy conditions. And even on days when the snow doesn’t quite stick, it’s important to stay vigilant and prepared for any weather changes that may occur during your commute. With a little extra effort, winter bike commuting can be a great way to stay active and enjoy the beauty of the season.

Winter Bike Maintenance

The harsh winter weather, including snow and salt on the roads, can quickly cause wear and tear on your bike. To make things easier, consider using a single speed bike or a bike with an internal hub to keep gear maintenance low. However, a geared bicycle can still work well for winter commuting with proper care and maintenance. 

Winter bike commuting requires some adjustments to your bike maintenance routine. One important change is switching to a wet chain lube to better withstand the wet and snowy conditions. Unlike dry lube, wet lube won’t get washed off as easily by precipitation, making it a better choice for winter riding. However, dry lube may be more suitable for dry climates as it lasts longer and has less issues with dirt buildup. But in a wet winter, it’s best to stick with wet lube. 

Winter bike commuting requires some extra maintenance to keep your bike running smoothly. It’s recommended to lubricate the chain once a week in harsh winter conditions, but you may be able to go longer if the weather is dry. However, it’s important not to forget to lube the chain, as neglecting it can cause premature wear on your gear clusters. Find a maintenance schedule that works for you to ensure a safe and efficient winter commute. 

Winter bike commuting can be tough on your bike, especially with the salt and moisture on the roads. One solution is to use a rust-proof chain, such as the Rust Buster, which is designed to resist corrosion. However, it’s unclear whether this type of chain requires less frequent lubrication. If you have experience with a rust-proof chain, let us know if you’ve been able to go longer between lube ups.

Winter Bike Commuting – Conclusion

Winter bike commuting is becoming increasingly popular. With a few simple preparations and the right winter gear, you can ride a bicycle even in the coldest months of the year. Layering clothing, investing in quality waterproof boots and gloves, and using accessories like mudguards to keep you dryer while riding are key to keeping warm and comfortable on cold mornings or evenings. For extra protection against icy or slippery conditions, consider studded tires or specially designed bags for carrying snacks and coffee. With the right preparation, winter cycling can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.