A Cold Way to Ride

Extreme sports tend to lean more towards bungee jumping, white river rafting, sky diving, etc., but not many put winter cycling in the top ten of that list. Maybe not even in the top 20. Still, most people don’t know the raw and adrenaline-pumping activity is worthy of the top tier in intense athleticism.

Let’s look at the facts. Winter cycling exposes you to most of the elements than any other sports; freezing temperatures, cold blasts of air, treacherous paths laden with ice and on some days, the oppressive heat of the sun even when the ground is covered in snow.

Most winter bikers ride slow and steady. This might make you think, ‘Hey how’s it extreme when all you do is be careful?’ Think again! Although it’s necessary to be as cautious as you can when winter cycling, you have to know that the thrill of it all lies in your ability to face the challenge of travelling on a two-wheel vehicle in the most hardening weather the world will ever know.

This brings us to the most important part of this sport: winter cycling gear. How can you leave the house without the basic safety gear that every cyclist needs!  In winter cycling, there is a big difference from what normal cyclers usually use.

You can’t expect to wear the same old spandex tights that have built-in air ventilation holes for those hot summer days cycling through the country. Nor can you wear the stylish, streamlined sunglasses that match your helmet.

Winter cycling calls for more than the usual assortment of clothing and accessories of the average biker. You need special jackets that are both insulated and made up of waterproof and breathable materials.

Don’t forget your base layers. It’s preferable not to use cotton materials so it won’t absorb your sweat. Think dry. Stay dry. This is important because it’s one of the main reasons you’ll stay warm.

One of the main problems of winter bikers is when you they have mechanical problems on the road or in the wilderness, the period of inactivity is the probable cause for bikers to get seriously chilled. Making sure you’re warmed up all the time is the best way to keep your body protected from the elements.

Another important gear to remember is tights. It’s better to wear tights that protect all of your lower extremities because one of the problems of winter bikers is keeping the feet and legs dry from tire spray and spray from passing traffic. A little padding won’t hurt either. Long distance cycling can be heck on your muscles, but a little comfort goes a long way.

When in freezing conditions, usually the first things to go are your hands, especially when they are not protected. Gloves are a necessity when winter cycling. A pair that can fit into your wrist cuffs is preferable so rain or melted snow won’t run down your arm and into your glove.

Next thing you should consider is the kind of shoes you’ll be using. It’s better to wear shoes that allow for wearing of thick socks and allow good blood circulation. Remember that your feet are the most important component in cycling. If those don’t work, you are done for. So keep yourself warm, keep your blood flowing and enjoy your ride.