7 Top Tips for Cycling in the Chill & Snow

As the temperatures drop and the weather conditions worsen, keen cyclists often find it harder to get motivated for a bike ride. If cycling is one of your go-to mood boosters, then it is important to keep cycling all year round, for both your physical and mental health.

Exercise bikes at the gym might work the same muscles but they are no substitute for the adrenalin rush of racing through the countryside or the sense of achievement of conquering a challenging trail. In terms of weight management, cycling in cold weather burns more calories, so that’s another benefit if that is one of the reasons you participate in cycling.

If you are looking for some added motivation to carry on pedalling this winter, here are some tips for keeping your riding routine going strong in the cold:

Get the right gear

The best way to stay comfortable during cold and wet weather is to have the right clothing and accessories. You should layer clothing and make sure that you have a warm base layer to keep your core warm but avoid wearing thick out layers that are not breathable.

When you start riding you will soon get warm, so you don’t want to be too warm before you set off. Wicking long-sleeve base layers with breathable microfleece mid-layers and a windproof shell jacket are recommended for winter cycling, along with insulated tights.

Keeping your fingers, feet, neck and ears warm is also important in maintaining a comfortable temperature. A neck gaiter, beanie, insulated gloves and wool socks are the top accessories to keep these areas warm.

Set your pace to control your body temperature

Instead of aiming for fast times, pace yourself to control your body temperature. If you are feeling too hot, slow down and if you start feeling cold, pick up the pace. Many cyclists choose to focus on improving their endurance during winter, so that they can wear warm clothing without getting sweaty by avoiding sprints and sticking to a moderate pace.

Fit mudguards

When you are cycling in winter you are guaranteed to be facing wet surfaces and if you are hitting the trails, you are going to be going through mud which will end up all up your back if you don’t get mudguards fitted. As well as not being a great look, when you have cold mud or rain flicking onto your back, it can make you even colder on your ride.

Stay well fuelled

Make sure that you have had a good meal before your ride, as you will be burning more calories to keep warm in winter. Stock up with snacks that will give you a quick energy boost and make sure that you stay well-hydrated.

Switch to winter tyres

To stay safe on slippery roads, it is better to switch to heavier tyres with more grip and ones that are more puncture resistant. Having to fix a puncture in winter weather is not much fun, so having the right tyres will help to keep you puncture-free.

Stay visible

Accidents happen more frequently in winter due to wet surfaces and compromised vision. Make sure you are wearing hi-vis clothing and that you have high-powered lights that you use both in daytime and in the dark.

Get prepared for your winter cycling adventures by fitting a secure, high-quality cycle rack from PF Jones. We stock all of the top cycle carrier brands including Thule, Westfalia and Witter.

Find the perfect cycle rack for your vehicle by choosing between tow bar mounted, roof-mounted and rear door hang on cycle carriers. Our expert sales advisers will be happy to help you to select the best one for your requirements.