Snow can make cycling quite dangerous and it may be wise to walk instead. But if you're determined to cycle, give yourself more time to get to your destination and check out these tips for cycling in the snow and maintaining your bike after that chittering ride.
Check the weather forecast before heading out. This will help you decide on the right clothing and see if ice is a threat. Cold hands and feet can make you feel miserable. You probably already have winter gloves ready, but you also need suitable non-slip shoes. Not only will your feet stay dry and warm, but you're less likely to slip on the pedals or the ground when you stop. Overcoats, thermal socks and winter boots are a good idea. Pack some plastic bags or cling film in case it starts snowing while you're out.
Make sure you use a bike suitable for the roads there, such as a mountain bike, with heavier tires and lower the tire pressure. Lower the saddle a bit to lower your center of gravity. This will give you more control over your bike and allow you to get your foot on the ground quickly if you slide or wobble.
Puddles are more likely to form in the gutter, which will freeze. Better to stay in the center of the lane where the cars have already driven and cleared the snow. Please be especially careful when turning off a major road that may be free of ice onto a quiet street that may not have been treated. When braking, brake gently with only the rear brake. Or better yet, if you find yourself on ice, avoid braking altogether. Try to stay calm and pedal smoothly. Take longer to slow down and stop, and remember that other people will take longer to slow down. Snow and ice can build up quickly on your bike, so check at various points on your trip that the brakes are free and still working properly.
After the ride, the more you clean your bike, the easier and faster the job will be. Clean your cycle every week or two to remove accumulated grease and grime. Continue with your weekly maintenance and you won't need to do an overhaul. If you can't get into cleaning, you can have it professionally tuned.
To clean your cycle yourself, follow these steps. Always clean the chain before lubrication. Scrub the chain with solvent using a cleaning tool or toothbrush, or soak the entire chain in solvent. Use Q-tips to remove stubborn clumps of grease and to remove dirt and grime from corners and holes. Drip oil on each link of the chain or run the chain by turning the chain while pouring oil. Use a toothbrush or cleaning tool to get the lube into each link and rub into areas showing signs of rust. While turning the chain, wipe off excess oil with a cloth.
After every ride in snowy and salty conditions, wipe down your bike and make sure you get slush and snow off the rims, spokes, derailleurs, sprockets, chain, brake cables, cranks and frame to prevent corrosion.
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