You don’t need a caterpillar track bicycle to keep pedalling at this time of year. Cycling in winter can be glorious; the views can be wonderful and there’s even more congestion on the roads to beat. Taking the time to learn how to cope with the cold and the snow, ice and slush on the ground is worth it. We’ve posted our top tips below.
Stay warm
Keeping your head, hands and knees warm will help you stay alert and relaxed. Cyclists of old stuffed a newspaper down the front of their jerseys to keep out the cold. If you are ever feel in need of an extra layer, give the technique a try – it is surprisingly effective.
Get knobbled
In countries where winters are hard and long, cyclists invest in metal-studded tyres, but in Britain it is more practical to go for an off-road tyre and maybe reduce the pressure a little to provide a larger point of contact with the road.
Play it straight
Keep your bicycle as upright as possible during turns. If you bank into a turn in slippery conditions you will be more likely to exceed the limited grip of your tyre.
Sit back and enjoy the ride
Keeping your weight as far back as possible reduces the risk of the front wheel sliding from beneath you – at the same time, your driving wheel enjoys more grip with a little extra weight over it.
Brake time
Use your rear brake to carefully test how slippery the road is and use the front brake only in a straight line.
Put your back into it
Motorcycle couriers steer partly by shifting their position in the seat. They use the technique to make quick turns, but steering with your hips in this way is a useful tip for cyclists in slippery conditions as it minimises abrupt movement of the handlebars.
Know your snow
Fresh snow offers a surprising level of grip for cyclists, but beware of slush and areas of ice covered by only a dusting of powder.
Cycle Rescue
Cycle Rescue is a unique service which gives cyclists breakdown cover similar to that offered to motorists. It’s included free with every cycle insurance policy from the ETA
Tank tracks
If all else fails, buy a kit that replaces your bicycle’s rear wheel with a caterpillar track designed for use on snow and its front wheel with a ski blade!
Cycle insurance for every weather
Cycle insurance from the ETA is designed to make your life on two wheels as easy as possible. We protect against theft, but unlike other insurers will never devalue your bike. We reimburse you when bicycle parts are pinched, but unlike other insurers we will not penalise you if have not secured quick release items. Just two of the things that set us apart. After all, we have been voted Britain’s most ethical insurance company by The Good Shopping Guide. Find out more
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