Cold fronts are coming—and though winter may not seem like the ideal time to set out on two wheels, there’s certainly something special about cycling through the crisp winter air. With the following tips, there’s no need for your woom to sit stationary all season long! Read on to get prepped for the cooler months ahead.
Just like you need to dress in extra layers (which we’ll get to!), your bike will need some extra gear.
SNAP Click on Fenders & MUDBLOCKA Mudguards
Riding down wet streets or passing through a puddle can make a bit of a mess—not only on the bike, but on the Rider. The SNAP Click on Fenders and MUDBLOCKA Mudguards are the perfect accessories to protect your Rider from getting soaked or coming home covered in their fair share of stains.
Visibility is not only a problem at night, but one in the winter months as well. The CYCLOPE Bike Lights will help your Rider see and be seen.
When cycling in winter, it’s vital to keep your hands, feet, and torso in mind. And of course, keep your head top of mind too!
The FLARE Reflective Cap will do just the trick to keep your Rider’s head warm this winter. Not only does it fit easily under the helmet, it also adds extra visibility!
There’s nothing worse than trying to hold onto the handlebars with nearly frozen fingers. The WARM TENS Bike Gloves offer a firm grip while keeping your hands protected, making them an absolute must for the cold.
Wearing several layers is best, and we have the perfect base layer: The OFF Longsleeve Jersey. This longsleeve is moisture wicking and temperature regulating. If it’s not too chilly and you’re wearing it solo, it also has reflective dots for...you guessed it! More visibility.
Of course, you’ll want to add some other essentials too. A balaclava can be a great alternative to a hat, a tube scarf can help keep the neck warm, and thermal socks will keep your Rider’s toes toasty. PS: Bringing a second pair of socks always saves the day. You never know when you may need a quick change.
Because being visible is oh-so important, we just had to mention it again!
The HIGH VIZ Bundle offers everything you need all packaged together. The vest and shortsleeve can be thrown on over other layers, while the reflective cap is a great under-helmet addition. And the AMIKO Active Bag! The AMIKO is the perfect place to stash a snack for your winter ride.
As always, don’t forget the bike lights (we’re partial to the CYCLOPE Bike Lights), visibility stickers, and anything else reflective you can find. woom bikes are made with reflective sidewalls, so with a few additional accessories, your Rider is sure to stand out.
Before getting on the bike, it’s always a good idea to take a few minutes to increase heart rate and get the blood flowing. This helps prevent injuries and can also be fun! Do a few jumping jacks, stretching, or racing your Rider on foot are just a few recommendations.
If there isn’t time to warm up, be sure to start riding with a low gear. This allows your body to warm up quickly due to the higher pedaling frequency.
Winter rides should be shorter than usual—and that may mean rethinking your regular route. Cold temps drain your energy quicker, which results in slower pedaling, making shorter trips the best option. By planning ahead, factors such as distance, light conditions, weather, and traffic can all be taken into consideration.
Rain, salt, and snow definitely aren’t your bike’s best friends. Cleaning your bike after every ride is the best way to keep your bike looking (and working!) as if it's brand new. After cleaning, check the gears, shifters, brakes, and rims. To learn more about cleaning and keeping your bike in tip-top shape, check out this step-by-step guide.
