Safe Cycling in Winter
When the sun goes south for the winter, it doesn’t necessarily mean solitary confinement for the Schwinn. With a few precautions, bicycling in the winter offers the same benefits as fair-weather cycling, such as saving gas money, reducing highway damage (and therefore costs!), and using one less car parking space. Bicycling is also good for your health and great for the environment. Here are some tips to make your winter cycling experience safe and successful:
Wear the right clothes, including:
- A good, bright colored wind jacket over layers of clothing.
- Reflective gear.
- A pair of wind pants or long underwear.
- Windproof mittens over insulating liners or gloves on milder days.
- A neck gaiter and warm hat under your bicycle helmet.
- A helmet cover with an ear band.
Use the right equipment, such as:
- A mountain bike with sturdy tires.
- A set of fenders.
- In icy conditions, studded bicycle tires.
- A bright halogen light on the front of your bike and a red light on the back.
- A reflective vest and reflective tape on your helmet and elsewhere.
- An emergency kit with a pump, tools, a spare tire and a patch kit