bemoreeco

Winter is coming and we have been told that this weekend the weather is going to be wet. We all know that cycling and an eco activity and therefore should not keep it as a summer fun activity. Each day my colleagues and I cycle to work and now winter in creeping in the thought does worry us. 

To help us with these seasonal concerns our friends at New Consumer have written up a guide to winter cycling. Hopefully these will help you continue to use your bike over the coming months.

Start from the top

Having a cold head is one of the worst things about winter – especially if you cycle. Make sure you wrap up well with a special hat. If you want waterproof protection then think about getting a helmet cover. They protect you from the rain, and most are windproof with reflective strips for added visibility.

Keeping warm

The importance of a good baselayer when cycling in the winter is often underestimated. With temperatures reaching as low as -3c, coupled with strong wind-chills, a good quality baselayer will provide you with thermal protection from the elements. As they are usually stretchy, wearing one doesn’t restrict your movements and the majority of them have moisture wicking properties – as well as being anti-bacterial and odour resistant. 

Keeping your fingers warm is almost as important as a baselayer. Most cycle-junkies know the value of a good set of gloves – without them your hands can go numb, ache like crazy and your fingers can freeze – making braking reaction slower. 

Stay dry

Rain has to be the nemesis of the cyclist (well… rain and lorries). It’s just miserable. Overshoes are a good idea if you’re going to be cycling in the rain – they’ll keep your feet dry, your shoes protected AND they provide added grip, without restricting your movements.

Match those with a good set of waterproofs and you’ll be well-protected from the elements. It has to be said that when it comes to waterproofs you really get what you pay for, so it’s worth saving up a bit. 

Waterproofs should protect you from the worst of the weather, but with rain comes mud. Mud guards are pretty essential if you’re going to be cycling through the winter.

Be seen

In the winter months the hours of daylight shorten dramatically. This means that if you cycle to work, you will no doubt leave home in darkness and arrive in the same way. Making yourself known to traffic is essential to your overall safety, so make sure you arm yourself with some sort of reflective clothing.

In the hours of darkness, good lights are essential. If you haven’t got a decent set yet, make sure you invest in some. It’s illegal to cycle without them, and good quality ones could save your life.

Well I hope that these hints will encourage you to main this eco activity.  Take care.

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