Just because the temperature outside has dropped, that doesn't mean you have to park your bike for the winter season. With a little bit of preparation, biking in winter can be a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you make the most of biking in winter.
Preparing Your Bike
In addition to preparing yourself for biking in winter, it's also important to take some time to winterize your bike. Start with giving your bike a thorough cleaning after a ride—grime can build up quickly in cold, wet weather and lead to mechanical problems down the road. Then, check your tires to make sure they have enough tread and air pressure. Inflate them slightly more than usual since tire pressure drops in colder temperatures and make sure you lubricate your chain regularly to prevent it from drying out. The addition of a Trek Bontrager Garmin Edge 1030 GPS NA Cycling Computer is also a great option to track your navigation and train throughout winter.
Epic Mountain Gear offers year-round bike service options at all store locations. From basic tunes to keep your bike rolling, through to Pro Tune Up’s that give a comprehensive overhaul, you will find what you need. Check out our services today.
Dressing in Layers
There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing! Okay, that might not always be true but there are certainly things you can do to keep spinning whatever the weather. One of the most important things to remember when biking in winter is to dress in layers. You want to avoid getting too cold or too hot, so start with a base layer made of moisture-wicking material. On top of that, add a layer of insulation to keep you warm, followed by a waterproof and windproof outer layer if it is looking particularly inclement. Layer up with the Pearl Izumi Attack Thermal Jersey that neutralizes cold temperatures during winter rides. Don't forget to wear warm thermal sock, shoe covers, gloves, a thermal cap or beanie under your helmet, and a neck gaiter to protect the neck area and you will be set.
Staying Visible
With shorter days and darker mornings and evenings, it's important to make sure you're visible when biking in winter. Wear bright clothing and attach reflective gear to your bike so that drivers can see you. Explore our collection of Pearl Izumi Barrier Jackets for bright, but functional options that you can convert from vest to jacket, based on outdoor conditions. If you're biking at night, use headlights and taillights so that cars can spot you from far away, such as the USB-rechargeable Trek Bontrager Ion Elite R/Flare R City Bike Light Set that can be seen from up to two miles away. Overall, always be aware of your surroundings—just because you can see a car doesn't mean the driver can see you.
With a little bit of preparation, biking in winter can be enjoyable and rewarding. By dressing in layers, staying visible, and taking care of your bike, you'll be able to hit the trails all season long!
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