The mornings are getting colder and the sun is setting often before we leave the office for the day. Those two factors alone tell us one thing, winter is almost upon us. For many, that means making sure their cars are ready for the snowy, icy roads and that they have their favourite travel mug full of hot coffee to keep them warm on their commute. But for us die-hard e-bike owners, that means something else. It means treacherous road conditions, frozen fingertips, and a rather cold commute out in the elements. At also means that we see some of the most spectacular winter scenes and we enjoy many of the e-bike health benefits on our daily commute.
Still, staying safe and healthy is important and we are going to share some useful tips on how to do just that. Let’s get started:
Safe Winter Bike Commuting Tips
Follow The Plough- in most metro areas, the bike lanes are regularly ploughed. For a safer, more enjoyable commute, follow the snowplough. You will have a much clearer lane ahead of you.
Check Road Conditions- before you leave, always check the local road conditions. Regardless of your skill level, sometimes the roads might be too hazardous for cycling.
Ride Steady- slow down and stay loose on slippery stretches and brake only on the rear wheel to avoid spinouts on slick surfaces.
Be Alert- ride defensively and make eye contact with drivers because cars are often less aware of bikers in the winter.
Choose The Right Bike- lightweight, tall bicycles won’t be as manoeuvrable in the snow as a bike with a lower centre of gravity. An e-bike with fat tyres makes the perfect winter ride.
Cold And Clean- keep your e-bike cold and clean during winter. Storing it inside your home instead of in the garage will allow it to warm up and taking a warm bike out into the snow will cause ice to form on your brakes and gears.
Protect Your Core- choose warmer clothing and layer it to protect your core body temperature. This will help you avoid hypothermia.
Headwear- many riders wear balaclavas and sunglasses or ski goggles. Tight-fitting, warm fleece skull caps are popular as well. Top it off with a helmet, perhaps sized larger in winter to fit over all the insulation.
Warm Hands And Feet- wear mittens or bifurcated “lobster”-style handwear, which keep fingers close together and warmer. Winter boots, not bike shoes, are best for the coldest days.
Contact Mate Bike
To learn more safe winter bike commuting tips, contact Mate Bike today and start Mate Bike now!
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