Winter Cycling Season Top Tips

Now that autumn has officially set in and winter isn’t far behind, it’s time to turn your attention to getting the most from your bicycle between now and February.

Riding your bike on UK roads in winter can be refreshing but there are potentially more hazards to be aware of. We’ve put together some top tips for getting maximum use from your bike as the weather cools down.

Be seen

Visibility is key as the evenings draw in – Cycling Weekly advises wearing reflective clothing on dark rides, especially in rural locations. If you ride a UK road bike in urban areas under streetlamps, you may just need front and rear bicycle lights to ensure visibility, although reflectors can also be handy.

Prep and prime

It’s customary to give your bike a service in April when the spring cycling season gets underway but it’s equally important to get your bike ready for winter if you plan to carry on cycling. Inspect the chain, cassette, gears and brakes for wear and replace anything that’s causing concern.

Unclog the dirt

Rain, sleet and melting snow can all result in muddy conditions underfoot; to ensure your bike doesn’t get clogged up during the winter months, consider fitting mudguards. Check to see if your bicycle has eyelets for mudguards; if not, there are plenty of clip-ons to choose from.

Wider winter tyres

Your tyres and the only thing between you and the ground, so it’s worthwhile investing in quality wheels – especially during winter. Think of switching to a pair of dedicated winter wheels, which are usually wider than regular tyres and can run at a lower pressure for improved comfort and grip.