OCB’s Inventory Coordinator, Gari Sullano, offers advice on staying safe (and seen) while riding your bike this winter.
Equipping yourself for winter cycling can be a challenge. There are always many things to consider, and asking for advice can feel daunting, especially if you’re surrounded by folks who appear to know what to do.
How do I keep warm? How do I stay visible during the dark hours? How do I protect my bike from rusting?
Luckily, Our Community Bikes’ Inventory Coordinator, Gari Sullano, is on hand to provide some useful tricks and key items which will keep you pedaling during the winter months.
1. Make sure you have full coverage fender sets
These are important not just for keeping yourself dry, but also protecting your bike from the wet weather, as it minimizes road spray going into critical components (e.g. lower headset bearings, bottom bracket/crankset/chain), thus slowing down wear. Some models even have mud flaps so your friends don’t get blasted in the face riding behind you.
2. Light up!
Staying seen is often difficult so make sure you have a light. void blinky/flashing lights as these can be distracting to other road users. Try and get USB rechargeable models as this makes it much easier (and cheaper) to power up.
3. Keep chain lubricant on hand
Riding in wet weather and through puddles can introduce water and/or road spray into chain components (pins/rollers), displacing light-weight lubricant. This means frequent reapplication is also needed. Wet lube is preferable as it usually has better staying power; nonetheless, chains still need to be wiped down on the outside to prevent gunk accumulation on other drivetrain components (chainrings, rear cogs, rear derailleur pulley wheels). Even a little chain maintenance is better than none!
4. Get yourself some gloves
This one is a no-brainer- cold hands suck straight up. Wearing gloves also improves your ability to control the bike and operate the brakes, so it is a worthwhile investment. Doesn’t need to be fancy. Just something to keep your hands warm.
5. Try a Safety Pizza
Safety Pizzas are the world’s most delicious safety device! They’re composed of a high-visibility, reflective ‘crust’ and reflective ‘toppings’ that you apply yourself to increase your visibility to other road users… and improves your ability to ride safely to the real pizza parlour.
We sell them here at OCB, so come on down and get yours!
Beyond that, Gari’s glamorous guidance for riding safely:
- Dress/prepare for all weather conditions (layers are always better than bulky clothing)
- Consider flat pedals so you can fit inside warmer socks and boots, instead of cycling shoes
- Frequent bike cleaning, particularly the drivetrain and rim brake tracks – so make sure you keep time for this
And finally… Be aware of your surroundings and do not trust fallen leaves, your tires will slip out!
Stay safe out there!
What does a cyclist ride in the winter? An icicle!