Excellent news,
My new bike arrived last week and finally my training for the ride of 2011 can begin.
I made the decision to continue to cycle to work despite the cold weather. Now was this a good idea or not? Well day after day of snow has made the roads very slippery and dangerous for cyclists all over the country. I have researched a few top tips for cycling in these conditions.
Tips for Cycling in the Snow:
- Stay seated where possible – As soon as you stand up your weight moves forward losing traction in the rear wheel,
- Let your tyre pressure down a little to increase grip,
- Ride in a easier lower gear,
- Follow the tread patterns in the road – this is where the snow has already melted. Take a defensive line and don’t be intimidated into cycling in the gutter, on treacherous cycle paths or icy parts of the road,
- Take wide corners – Slow down before reaching your turn to avoid breaking in the corner,
- If there are no tyre tracks to follow, ride in the powder rather than smooth snow as smooth snow is often icy,
- Wear glasses – Snow will sting your eyes making it difficult to see,
- Layer – Wrap up warm, I layered two together with a wind proof jacket, two pairs of socks and lined leather gloves.
So on that note wrap up & ride safe as cyclists are extremely vulnerable in weather like this.
Take Care.
Warwick