Tag Archives: Winter Biking

The winter biking experience can be great with these tips

by Jess Leong, HaveFunBiking.com

The first snowfall keeps many inside by a warm fireplace. But a growing number of cyclists find winter biking an excellent opportunity to be more environmentally friendly while earning bragging rights!

A growing number see riding a bike in the winter as a way to be more environmentally friendly.

For many, though, the thought of riding a bike in the winter can be intimidating, including freezing temperatures, ice-covered paths, and more. But if you prepare properly for the weather, you may find it enjoyable and worthwhile. Plus, you will find plenty of gear options to keep you warm and safe as you navigate your local winter wonderland.

Layering up for that winter excursion

As you ride, you create windchill, which can make a 40-degree day feel like it’s below freezing, leading to an uncomfortable commute. The best solution is to find jackets and pants designed to stop the wind. They do that by preventing air from pulling away from your body. A good base layer under a layer that blocks wind can make the winter commute comfortable even in below-freezing temperatures.

Layering your clothing is important for a winter commute.

Layering your clothing is essential for winter riding.

You know your body better than anyone else, so you’ll better understand what parts of your body get cold first and what follows afterward. Layer up according to the conditions outside. The layer closest to your body should wick away all the dampness from perspiration. This is very important. With the cold, if any sweat makes your clothing damp, you’ll get cold faster.

Besides layering up clothing to protect your core, ensure you protect sensitive areas that tend to get cold quickly. For instance, winter full-fingered bike gloves for your otherwise numb fingers, earmuffs for those aching cold ears, nice warm socks for your toes and feet, and perhaps a face mask for when your face feels frozen. Also, a biking headband or headwear might be necessary if your head gets cold under the helmet. While a helmet can seem warm in summer, it provides little protection against cold wind in winter.

Tip: You should start the winter commute feeling comfortable, so layer yourself accordingly. Once you start pedaling, you’ll warm up. You can bring an extra layer in case you need it, but usually you won’t.

Seeing is key

Have eye protection, like a pair of alpine ski goggles is important for a winter commute.

Eye protection, like a pair of alpine ski goggles, may help.

Having a clear vision is essential for your winter commute. You need to be able to see and be aware of what’s around you. If you can’t see, it can increase the risk of unnecessary crashes. Finding proper eye protection is relatively easy and affordable. You can use cheap ski masks and wrap-around sunglasses if the sun poses an issue. You should also be able to wear standard reading glasses, which may even fit behind your goggles. They may fog up once you get inside, but you’ll be safely off the road by then.

Be visible while staying warm

The cold winter months bring early sunsets and snow that can make visibility for drivers on the route you define to ride. In addition to wearing reflective clothing, state law requires such things as a white light attached to the front of your bike so drivers can see you from at least 500 feet away (if they are looking at you from the front). There must also be Department of Public Safety-approved red reflector tape or light attached to the back of your bike so drivers can see you from 100 feet to 600 feet (when they are directly behind you). It is also wise to have reflector tape or lights so that traffic can see you from side streets and alleys. For information on what the law requires, click here.

Since cold temperatures can shorten the battery life on your lights, especially if you are riding an e-bike, ensure you check them often so your lights work when you need them! In terms of the law, if an officer pulls you to the side for not having a front light that meets guidelines (even if it’s there and just not on), no excuse can help you.

Ride the right bike

If possible, buy a standard single-speed bike. We’d recommend a used or old bike. Bikes with suspension, multiple gears, or that are specialized can get worn down or ruined by the snow, salt, and grit. So, getting a bike that you can ride and withstand the wear and tear of winter is the best route to go.

Once you enjoy riding in the winter, plan to commute longer distances. A fat bike might be an option, if it’s in your budget. Fat bikes have large balloon tires that increase their surface area, giving them a better grip on the ground under them. This makes riding on snow and ice easier and safer. Visit your local shop to learn if a fat bike is for you.

If you prefer using an e-bike in the winter, colder weather will affect the range (distance) you can travel on a charge. Plus, the e-bike or its battery must be charged indoors and then stored until its subsequent use outside,

Drive your bike defensively

When commuting by bike in winter, you must always be aware of your surroundings, even more so than in warmer months. General visibility may not be an issue when biking in the winter, but watch out for slippery surfaces. Also, auto drivers can be more distracted at this time of year, so they drive defensively. So even though they’re supposed to watch for you, make sure you keep an eye out for them as well.

Be aware of the weather and be a smart biker

Winter means snow, ice, and cold winds. It also means less daylight. Be aware of your options: if the snow starts coming down heavily, it becomes icy, or overall conditions worsen, have an alternate plan in place if biking becomes too dangerous. Consider a route near a bus or train or anywhere with public transportation. If conditions worsen, you have another way to get home or to your destination.

Also, don’t make sudden moves or tricks with your bike, especially in icy conditions. This means don’t lean into the turns, for example. Going with the turn decreases the tire’s contact with the road or trail surface, which is bad because your bike will have less power to stay upright. This might seem like a no-brainer, but we have seen plenty of people who break quickly or make quick turns only to wipe out. Doing this in the street is dangerous and could become fatal.

Why winter commute?

Winter bike commuting is not only a great way to ride year-round and keep you in shape, but also it can save you money. Looking at cost, in terms of transportation options, biking is definitely on the low end. When you add in all the expenses of driving a car or using public transportation, the costs of using anything besides your legs as an engine will be more significant. Plus, you’ll not only be in shape and ready to go in the spring but also be regarded as awesome for braving that cold air.

Have fun, be safe, and remember to use your best judgment this winter while riding!

Fun and fitness when winter bike riding isn’t your thing

by John Brown

Snow, ice, and cold make for excellent conditions for fat biking, but how do you keep in shape when winter bike riding isn’t your thing? Luckily, many fun activities, exercises, drills, and products help keep you in shape through the winter months.

Fun is fat through the winter.

Fitness ideas if winter bike riding isn’t your thing

Even the most minor efforts can help you stay fit. Trying things like taking the stairs rather than the elevator, parking on the opposite side of the retail center and walk when shopping, or taking time in the evening to walk around the neighborhood will make a big difference until the riding season returns. You can also start putting some time in at the gym. In the past, I had a gym membership that I would turn off, except for three months a year. I enjoyed yoga classes, weight training, treadmills, spin classes, and other gym-related activities.

On a bike trainer vs. winter riding

Another winter bike riding option you can enjoy through the winter is buying an indoor trainer. An indoor trainer holds your bicycle upright and offers resistance when you pedal, thus turning your bike into a stationary bicycle. When using an Indoor trainer, you can ride from the comfort of your own home or in a group setting. Most bike shops have trainer nights in their stores through the winter.

Trainer rides are a great way to connect with other riders.

If you join a shop’s group trainer ride, there is usually a leader. However, riding alone can still be fun. Most people start riding their trainer while watching TV, and it’s a great plan at first, but that quickly gets boring. I find it interesting to use trainer-specific workouts online. There are plenty of free and for-pay versions. Additionally, depending on the trainer you buy, some of those workouts will change the resistance through your trainer.

Spin classes

Most gyms offer spin classes. These classes use a stationary bicycle, music, and instructors to guide a course through a one-hour workout. These rides are enjoyable and offer an intensity that is difficult to achieve while riding alone at home.

Spin Class is a fast and fun workout.

There are, however, a few downsides with spin classes to keep in mind. One issue is that a spin bike won’t fit the same as your bike. Many riders will install their saddle and pedals on a spin bike before each class. The other potential problem is that the courses you can select are not tailored toward your personal goals. The levels are usually high-tempo, high-effort workouts that might not fit your training plan.

Fun in the Snow

If you live in a colder weather climate and snow is the reality for months at a time, you can enjoy the white stuff and keep your fitness. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating are fantastic ways to increase your heart rate. I love skating on our pond with my boys because I’m not good at it, so I get to use new muscles, and two, I have to work hard to keep up with those rascals.

Our winter oasis, where I fumble through learning to skate

However, enjoy your time off the bike if you find your fitness through the winter. The brief time between fall and spring is perfect for strengthening new muscles, working on flexibility, and letting your body recover from a full season of cycling. Additionally, time off the bike always excites me to get back on it once the weather clears.

About John Brown, the author

As a lifelong cyclist and consummate tinkerer, John operates Browns Bicycle in Richfield, MN. It all started for him in grade school when the bike bug bit and that fever is still there. Now, and over the past thirty years, he has worked at every level in the bike industry. Starting, like most, sweeping floors and learning anything he could about bikes. He eventually graduated as a service manager and then to a store manager. Through the years, he has spent extensive time designing and sourcing bicycles and parts for some of the largest bike companies in the world. All the while focusing on helping as many people as possible enjoy the love of riding a bike. In that pursuit, he has taught classes (both scheduled and impromptu) on all things bikes. John also believes in helping every rider attain their optimal fit on the bike of their dreams. Please feel free to stop in any time and talk about bikes, fit, and parts or share your latest ride. You can also see John’s tricks and tips on the Brown Bicycle Facebook Page.

Prepare for winter riding with these fun, easy cold weather tips

by John Brown,

I can’t fight it any longer; my powers of denial are only so strong. Despite my best efforts, a change is coming, and I can do nothing to stop it. That’s right, winter is here. We just experienced a real cold snap, and snow is coming. While I can’t stop the cold elements from hitting Minnesota, I can prepare for cold weather riding. Here are a few tips to prepare your bike and body for the rest of the winter season here in the upper Midwest.

Is your bike set for winter riding?

Even though your bike will function perfectly in cool weather, there are things you should do to protect it and yourself from the elements.

Lubricants

Not too much care needs to be taken for the sealed parts of your bike, like the hubs, bottom bracket, or headset. Those places are well-greased and sealed from the elements, so there is no need to change the type of grease. What you do need to be concerned with is the chain. It’s best to switch from dry, or wax lubes to synthetic oil (like Park’s CL-1) for winter riding.

Lubing your chain is easy with a wax based lube or synthetic oil.

Frame

For most of the United States, winter roads mean salt. That salt can play havoc with your frame and components. The best way to protect your frame from corrosion is to install fenders. A plastic fender is impervious to salt damage and can stop salt from reaching your frame. Additionally, Fenders keep you dry when moisture is on the road and clean from any debris your tires kick up.

Tires

Thanks to rain, snow, and less road maintenance, there is an elevated amount of debris on the roads during the winter riding season. Coupled with lower temperatures that make tires stiffer, flats are more prevalent in winter. For these reasons, I encourage you to get some “winter tires.” By “Winter tires,” I mean something with a pronounced tread and a puncture-resistant feature. With more tread and protection against flats, you can confidently ride through the winter months. Investing in studded tires is also a good plan if you live in an area that gets below freezing and stays there for several days. For Fatbikes or Mountain Bikes, you can invest in aftermarket studs that thread into your existing tire.

This tire has a reinforced layer (orange) that prevents most flats

Lights

Winter is as dark as it is cold. Therefore, having some additional visibility is important. If you are riding on well-lit roads or paths, blinkers that make you more visible are perfect. In contrast, if your route is not well-lit, I recommend getting a headlight with at least 100 lumens. That light will allow you to see safely.

Your Body and winter riding

For you, dealing with winter riding is simply the basics of keeping you comfortable. As the winter rolls on, you will need to use different amounts of insulation to keep you warm. In early fall, knee warmers and a long sleeve jersey will offer ample warmth but as the temperature drops, knee warmers make way to tights and long sleeve jerseys are eclipsed by jackets. For a complete overview of temperature vs. clothing, check out our article on winter clothing.

This “Rider” has his arm and knee warmers (blue) on

The ride

Riding in the winter is amazing if you are prepared. It’s incredible because there is a calm and quietness to winter that cannot be replicated during any other season. While it may sound difficult or unenjoyable to ride during the cold days of the winter, it is that fear others have that allows you to have most of the trails, all to yourself. Start slow and build up. As an example, try to ride until the temps reach 40 degrees. That temperature requires little additional clothing, and will keep most others off their bike. For the following season, try riding down to freezing and so on.

If all else fails

AAA Road Service now includes bicycles, it like have a SAG in your back pocket and a call away.

AAA Road Service now includes bikes. It’s like having a SAG in your back pocket.

Because winter riding puts you out into the elements, breaking down can be dangerous. Rather than getting yourself stuck in a bad situation, make sure to tell others where you will be and have a contact you can call for a ride home. If you don’t want to rely on a friend for a ride, you can always buy a AAA Road Service membership, with three-inexpensive options, that includes your bike. Its like having a SAG service in your back pocket, if you have a flat or break a chain, call and they will come a get you.

About John Brown, the author

John operates Browns Bicycle in Richfield, MN as a lifelong cyclist and consummate tinkerer. It all started for him in grade school when the bike bug bit, and that fever is still there. Now, and over the past thirty years, he has worked at every level in the bike industry. Starting, like most, sweeping floors and learning anything he could about bikes. He eventually graduated as a service manager and then to a store manager. Through the years, he has spent extensive time designing and sourcing bicycles and parts for some of the largest bike companies in the world. All the while focusing on helping as many people as possible enjoy the love of riding a bike. In that pursuit, he has taught classes (both scheduled and impromptu) on all things bikes. John also believes in helping every rider attain their optimal fit on the bike of their dreams. Please feel free to stop in any time and talk about bikes, fit, and parts or share your latest ride. You can also see John’s tricks and tips on the Brown Bicycle Facebook Page.

Make a resolution? It could be your best bike year ever!

By John Brown,

After all the presents are opened, and the last cookies disappear, many of us focus on the year ahead. More specifically, many of us begin the annual task of developing New Year’s resolutions for ourselves. Why not resolve to make this year your best year for bike riding by starting now?

Get ready for the bike season

For most of us, the season doesn’t begin in earnest until April 1st. Coincidentally, April 1st is also the first day of the 30 days of biking pledge. Therefore, why not take the next three months to prepare for April’s goal of thirty days of bicycle riding?

A happy rider having completed his 30-days of Biking

It’s been proven countless times – the mind drives the body! I find it a great way to get my mind ready for a goal is to share that goal with others. For me, once I tell others about my plans. I am making a deal with myself that it is a real thing. Once your goal is real, begin clearing your schedule for it.

Get your body ready for the bike

Make a training plan now. Your plan can be as simple as committing to ride two times a week or as detailed as planning the mileage, date, and time. Just be sure that your plans match your goal (for example, riding for only one hour a week wouldn’t give you the fitness you need to ride two hours a day through April).

Minnesota is sometimes locked in a winter freeze, with abundant snow, so conditions may not coincide with your availability to ride outdoors. But keeping yourself physically active is paramount for this time of year, and it’s especially crucial for your training. You can go snowshoeing, running, swimming, cross-country skiing, indoor riding (on a trainer), take spin classes, or anything that raises your heartbeat.

Indoor rides can be fun with the right group.

There is no better indoor exercise to ensure on-bike fitness than riding on a bike trainer. Spin gyms, training centers, and bike shops run classes a few times a week. Look into what programs are available in your community.

How to fit riding into your daily routine

Most people don’t have time to do the things they need to do (like that home project you swore you would finish last summer). So, how do you fit in time to get in shape? First, try not to add too much separate riding time to your schedule. Instead, commute to work by bike. Drive or take the bus part of the way and ride the rest. A normal 30-minute drive could turn into a 15-minute drive, and the rest can be done on your bike with a little planning. That way, you only add 15 to 20 minutes to your schedule and still get a ride in. Do it in the morning and the evening, and you buy an hour of riding while only adding up to 40 minutes to your daily schedule.

Try riding your bike to the grocery store rather than driving once a week. A trip to the store, library, or other short errands within a few miles from home can also work.

Also, if you have an indoor trainer, ride for one hour a night while watching TV rather than sitting on the couch. It may seem counter-intuitive, but being active is a great way to wind down from a busy day. You will find you sleep better and generally feel more relaxed.

Get your bike equipment ready early

Bring your bike out of hibernation and put air in the tires. Take it for a spin around the block and check to see if it’s functioning properly. Take it to your favorite bike shop early for servicing. April 1st is smack dab when many people consider riding their bikes. If you wait until the last minute to drop your bike off for service, chances are, you will be waiting longer than you like. Click the (link) here to read about some of the benefits of servicing your bike in the winter.

This rider is looking for speed, but a good bike fit can benefit any rider!

If you bring your bike in for service, think about making sure your bike fits you properly. A professional bike fit will lower the chance of repetitive motion injuries and make you more comfortable and efficient. While you’re having your bike serviced and fit, you can also find the right clothing and accessories for the year ahead.

The weather in April can be a mixed bag, so dress in layers. Make sure your clothing options include something to keep you comfortable in the sun, rain, snow, wind, or cold.

The First step

The longest journey begins with a single step, which should be taken early in January. Getting started right away is a huge moral booster for the goal of having your best year of bike riding ever!

Bike Events and races

Another option this winter is to look at all the events leading up to April to stay in shape.

About John Brown, the author

John operates Browns Bicycle in Richfield, MN, as a lifelong cyclist and consummate tinker. It all started for him in grade school when the bike bug bit him; that fever is still there. Now, and over the past thirty years, he has worked at every level in the bike industry. He was starting by sweeping the shop floor while learning anything he could about bikes. He eventually graduated as a service manager and then a store manager. Through the years, he has spent extensive time designing and sourcing bicycles and parts for some of the largest bike companies in the world. All the while focusing on helping as many people as possible enjoy the love of riding a bike. In that pursuit, he has taught classes (both scheduled and impromptu) on all things bikes. John also believes in helping every rider attain their optimal fit on the bike of their dreams. Please feel free to stop in any time and talk about bikes, fit, and parts or share your latest ride. You can also see more of John’s tricks and tips on the Brown Bicycle Facebook Page.

Bike Pic, Nov 24, it’s a turkey burner Friday, shred some trails

This bike pic turkey burner Friday, with mild fall temps and a few flurries in the upper Midwest, shred some trails.

So, adjust to the cold and get into the zone when continuing your time outdoors and your #NextBikeAdventure. View all the great ideas and bike destinations in the latest Iowa or Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide. Then plan your next outing with family and friends, and check out more stories at Let’s Do MN.

Thanks for viewing today’s bike pic

Now rolling through our 19th year as a bike tourism media, enjoy! As we pedal forward, we aim to encourage more people to bike and have fun while highlighting all the unforgettable places you can ride. As we continue to showcase more places to have fun, we hope the photos we shoot are worth a grin. Enjoy the information and stories we have posted as you scroll through.

Do you have a fun bicycle-related photo of yourself or someone you may know we should post? If so, please send your picture(s) to [email protected]. Please Include a brief caption for the image, who shot it, and where. Photo(s) sent to us should be a minimum of 1,000 pixels wide to be considered. You will receive photo credit and acknowledgment on Facebook and Instagram if we use your photo.

As we continue encouraging more people to bike, please view our Destination section at HaveFunBiking.com for your #NextBikeAdventure. Also, check out the MN Bike Guide, now mobile-friendly in our 14th year of producing this handy information booklet full of maps.

Bookmark HaveFunBiking.com on your cell phone and find your next adventure at your fingertips! Please share our pics with your friends, and don’t forget to smile. With one of our cameras ready to document your next cameo appearance while you are riding and having fun, we may be around the corner. You could be in one of our next Pic of the Day.

Have a great day with a safe and memorable fall!

Global Fat-Bike Day brings old and new friends together

Are you ready? The worldwide Global Fat-Bike Day helps to bring outdoor enthusiasts together to ride and make new friends. This year, on Saturday, December 2nd, there are several rides here in the upper Midwest to honor the mission of this event.

Global Fat-Bike Day fun in the upper Midwest

Here in Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, find several fat bike events on the first Saturday in December, with all types of themes. From the Ugly Sweater Ride in Chaplin to Plymouth’s Holiday Ride in Osage or Rollin a’ Fatty in Bloomington, these are some of the scheduled events in Minnesota. In Wisconsin, ride from UW Wanderoos in Amery, or the CAMDA Ride starting at Hatchery Creek. Or, in South Dakota, the Big Sioux Bikepacking Brigade is hosting a casual ride on the scenic gravel roads around Canton.

See all the fat bike event details and links for the upper Midwest posted at the MN Trail Navigator.

CAMBA’s Hatchery Creek Trailhead – Dec. 2

Don’t forget your camera because part of the Global Fat-Bike Day celebration will include sharing your experience through photos and video! Use the hashtag #GFBD2022.

Cruising the trails along the Minnesota River near Bloomington, MN.

Enjoy your riding your fatty, and make some fun off-road memories!

Bike Pic Feb 03, layered winter clothing makes riding fun

In this Friday’s bike pic, two fat bike enthusiasts enjoy riding in cold weather by layering their clothing to stay comfortable and warm while riding a Minnesota trail.

So, get into the zone when continuing your time outdoors and your #NextBikeAdventure. View all the great ideas and bike destinations in the latest Iowa or Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide. Then plan your next outing with family and friends in one of Minnesota’s HaveFunBiking destinations. And now, check out more stories at Let’s Do MN.

Thanks for viewing our latest bike pic

Now rolling through our 18th year as a bike tourism media, enjoy! As we pedal forward, we aim to encourage more people to bike and have fun while highlighting all the unforgettable places you can ride. As we continue to showcase more places to have fun, we hope the photos we shoot are worth a grin. Enjoy the information and stories we have posted as you scroll through.

Do you have a fun bicycle-related photo of yourself or someone you may know we should post? If so, please send your picture(s) to [email protected]. Please Include a brief caption for the image, who shot it, and where. Photo(s) sent to us should be a minimum of 1,000 pixels wide to be considered. If we use your photo, you will receive photo credit and acknowledgment on Facebook and Instagram.

As we continue encouraging more people to bike, please view our Destination section at HaveFunBiking.com for your #NextBikeAdventure. Also, check out the MN Bike Guide, now mobile-friendly, as we enter our 13th year of producing this handy information booklet full of maps.

Remember, bookmark HaveFunBiking.com on your cell phone and find your next adventure at your fingertips! Please share our pics with your friends, and don’t forget to smile. We may be around the corner with one of our cameras ready to document your next cameo appearance while you are riding and having fun. You could be in one of our next Pic of the Day.

Have a great day with a safe and memorable year ahead!

Bike Pic Jan 30, winter wisdom from those who fat bike

A little winter wisdom this cold Monday. “If you wait for the perfect conditions, you’ll never get anything done.” Just because Winter is upon us doesn’t mean it’s time to hang up your helmets.

Thanks for viewing our latest bike pic

Do you have a fun bicycle-related photo of yourself or someone you may know we should post? If so, please send your picture(s) to [email protected]. Please Include a brief caption for the image, who shot it, and where. Photo(s) sent to us should be a minimum of 1,000 pixels wide to be considered. If we use your photo, you will receive photo credit and acknowledgment on Facebook and Instagram.

As we continue encouraging more people to bike, please view our Destination section at HaveFunBiking.com for your #NextBikeAdventure. Also, check out the MN Bike Guide, now mobile-friendly, as we enter our 13th year of producing this handy information booklet full of maps.

Have a great day with a safe and memorable year ahead!

Bike Pic Jan 21, yeah its Friday with a downhill fat biker insight

This bike pic Friday, we found downhill skiing and fat biking go together. This winter weekend, prepare for some winter fat biking, maybe a downhill riding opportunitY?

With more snow in the forecast, a bike pic to remember! This wheelie Wednesday or Hump Day, take a chance. If life were a fat bike trail a wheelie could help smooth out your day-to-day ride or aid you in dropping into your sweet spot. Why not review the following tips to make your week an adrenaline high?

Get into the zone when continuing your time outdoors and your #NextBikeAdventure. View all the great ideas and bike destinations in the latest Iowa or Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide. Then plan your next outing with family and friends in one of Minnesota’s HaveFunBiking Destinations. And now, check out more stories at Let’s Do MN.

Thanks for viewing our latest bike pic

Now rolling through our 18th year as a bike tourism media, enjoy! As we pedal forward, our goal is to encourage more people to bike and have fun while highlighting all the unforgettable places for you to ride. As we continue to showcase more places to have fun, we hope the photos we shoot are worth a grin. Enjoy the information and stories we have posted as you scroll through.

Do you have a fun bicycle-related photo of yourself or someone you may know we should post? If so, please send your picture(s) to [email protected]. Include a brief caption (for each) of who is in the photo (if you know) and where the pic was shot? Photo(s) should be a minimum of 1,000 pixels wide or larger to be considered. If we use your photo, you will receive photo credit and acknowledgment on Facebook and Instagram.

As we continue to encourage more people to bike, please view our Destination section at HaveFunBiking.com for your #NextBikeAdventure. Also, check out the MN Bike Guide, now mobile-friendly as we enter into our 13th year of producing this handy information booklet full of maps.

Have a great day with a safe, and memorable year ahead!

How to pick the right cycling clothes for any condition

by John Brown

With winter showing signs of ending and roads soon beginning to clear of snow and ice, we all look forward to venturing out into the world on two wheels. The following should help you find the right cycling clothes for that #NextBikeAdventure. Even though the weather is improving, true summer temps are still a ways off, so take a look at these tips.

Layering Up with Cycling Clothes

As we swing closer into spring, finding the right cycling clothes for an early season bike ride is important as temperatures fluctuate.

Your perceived temperature as well as the actual ambient temperature can change while you ride. In order to get the most flexibility, and stay comfortable, layered clothing offer the most options. Listed below are the many items that make up a complete wardrobe of cycling clothes. However, depending on your geography or personal preferences, some items may not be required.

-Jersey

A cycling jersey isn’t a necessity for riding, but it sure does make things comfortable. Jerseys come in lightweight sleeveless versions for the hottest summer days, or insulated long sleeve versions for cold weather riding.

-Base Layers

They come in short and long sleeve versions. They’re usually made of a polypropylene material that keeps you dry by moving moisture off your skin quickly.

-Shorts

Cycling shorts are the most important piece of clothing when it comes to comfort. There are tight versions as well as baggy ones, but all have a pad to help make your saddle more comfortable.

-Arm Warmers

Arm warmers fit snugly from your wrist to just below your shoulder. The ability to roll them up or down while you ride makes them ideal for rides that have a large change in temperature.

-Knee Warmers

Like arm warmers, knee warmers offer great flexibility on days with a large shift in temperature. They can be easily packed in a jersey pocket for use when needed.

-Gloves

Gloves range from half fingered summer versions to heavy, windproof, winter versions and everything in between. The most important thing about glove is to find something that fits comfortably.

-Tights

Tights are an essential piece of clothing if you want to be comfortable riding as the temperature drops. They help you retain body heat while not being bulky and interrupting your ability to ride comfortably.

-Jackets

Cycling jackets are noticeably thinner than a standard winter jacket. The reason they don’t need as much loft is because as you exercise, you create enough heat. Most good cycling jackets use a windproof material to stop heat from being pulled off your body by the air moving around you as you ride. Some higher end jackets are windproof as well as waterproof.

-Wind Breaker

As it sounds, this jacket or vest’s main job is to stop the wind from pulling heat away from your body. They are usually lightweight and can be packed into a very small bag for easy transport.

-Hats

Cycling caps are usually thin enough to fit under a helmet and vary in insulation depending on the material used. Warmer caps are usually made from fleece with a windproof membrane, while summer caps are made of nylon.

-Booties

Booties are thick neoprene covers designed to fit over your shoe and ankle. They do a great job of insulating while still allowing you to wear you comfortable cycling shoes. If you plan to do a lot of winter riding, you may want to invest in a dedicated winter shoe, rather than booties.

What to Wear

Now that we know about cycling clothes, let’s talk about how they fit into the game. Everyone’s temperature threshold is different, so you may find it comfortable to wear slightly more or less clothing than recommended below. After a full season of riding, you will figure out exactly what works for you and where you may need some more clothing options.

Above 65 Degrees

Jersey, shorts, gloves, and socks should be comfortable.

65 Degrees

Add knee warmers, arm warmers, base layer, and light full finger gloves.

55 Degrees

The addition of a vest keeps your core warm.

50 Degrees

Trade the arm warmers for a long sleeve jersey and swap out to thicker socks and gloves.

45 Degrees

Swap knee warmers for light tights, short sleeve base layer for long sleeve, and add a hat.

40 Degrees

A wind breaking coat and booties keep you toasty.

35 Degrees

Trade light tights for winter tights, light hat for winter cap, and full finger gloves for winter gloves.

30 Degrees

A heavy winter coat replaces the windbreaker and long sleeve jersey.

Stay Dry

With the simple breakdown of cycling clothes above you should be able to comfortably ride throughout the spring and deep into winter. If it rains, all bets are off. With rain on top of cold, the most important thing is to stay dry. Most synthetic insulating fabrics will still work when wet, but the wet greatly diminishes their ability to keep you warm.

In the rains of the fall and early spring staying dry can be a difficult task. The best way to stay dry is to wear waterproof clothing. A jacket and pants are a great way to start, but socks and gloves make the outfit complete. Before you go out and just buy anything labeled “waterproof”, understand that all waterproofing is not the same.

In their most basic form, a lot of materials are waterproof, but as soon as they are perforated with stitching, zipped closed with generic zippers, and left to be loose at all the cuffs, their waterproofing goes out the window. On top of the issue with letting water in, basic waterproof materials don’t let water vapor out. It’s just as bad to get soaked through with sweat as with rain as far as insulation is concerned.

-Keep Water Out

To keep water out, look for waterproof cycling clothes that have sealed seams or welded seams (see image). Pay close attention to the zipper. Look for waterproof zippers (pictured) or large flaps that prevent water from driving through the zipper. Make sure all the cuffs are adjustable enough to be snugged against your skin.

Examples of cycling clothes with taped seams (Left), welded seams (Center), and a waterproof zipper (Right)

-Let Sweat Out

To let the sweat out, waterproof materials should also be breathable. Breathable means that water from the outside cannot penetrate the fabric, but that any water vapor (sweat) being produced by your body, can escape through the fabric. Breathable fabrics work because water vapor is smaller than water droplets. To breath, the material will be perforated with holes small enough to stop water droplets from getting in, but large enough to allow water vapor to escape. Using a breathable material in tandem with base layers designed to pull moisture off your skin is a sure fire way to stay dry and warm.

You cannot beat the changing scenery of fall riding or the feeling of rediscovering riding in the spring. Hopefully, with these tips and a little experimentation, you will find comfort and enjoyment riding outside, even when the weather is cool.