Stop Whining and Ride in the Snow | 4 Tips for Snow Cycling
by Frank on January 30, 2010
in Uncategorized
Photo by Shoupiest
I’ve heard it a thousand times: “I’d love to get out and ride, but it’s snowy outside!” Honestly, I’m just as guilty as the next person.
Now, as significant snowfall descends on Oklahoma for the second time this winter (unheard of!), I’ve decided that it’s time to stop whining and get out on the snow. For inspiration, I used an acquaintance who commutes by bike year round, regardless of snow or ice.
Here are a few tips to get you out on the snow:
- Studded Tires – For great traction in the snow, break out a set of studded bicycle tires like the Continental Spike Claw Studded Mountain Bike Tire. They keep you stuck to the road and can even be quite fun.
- Bundle Up – But not too much! It may take a few tries, but remember that after a few minutes in the saddle it could get quite hot.
- Ride a Trainer – I know, this isn’t exactly the same as riding in the snow. However, it’s a great way to stay in the saddle. If you want to pretend you’re outside in the snow, you could even ride facing a window…
- Get a Ski Bike – I’ve honestly never ridden one of these, but they look like a blast! Get a snow bike or modify one of your old bikes with some skis. Or, if you live in a place that gets regular snowfall, most ski resorts have them for evening fun on the slopes.
Don’t forget: Stay warm! Stay safe! Have fun!
Do you ride in the snow? Have any good stories? Let us know in the comments!
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As if it wern’t obvious give yourself plenty of extra time while riding in the snow. It will take longer than normal. I also advise staying off the roads/ ciy streets as much as possible. Ride bike paths as much as possible. Remember that bike lanes are not barriers. It is much more likely that you will slip and fall in the snow. Remember that inexperienced motorist may be sharing the road with you. Scary! I also find that pushing a larger gear at lower RPM is helpful with getting tracion when starting out. Instead o shifting down like you might normally do when coming to a stop, stay in the same gear, that way you won’t spin out. Riding in the snow is a blast!