Bike riding is a great form of exercise, transportation, and entertainment, as well as a source of emotional health and well-being.
However, different seasons bring different riding experiences. The sight of snow on the ground tends to give most people shivers to the extent that they keep their bikes inside until winter is over.
However, did you know that there are some insightful tips for winter bike riding in major cities? Make sure you follow these tips if you want to make winter riding more fun, safer, and less daunting.
Lower Your Saddle
One of the worst things you can do during winter is to ride a wobbly bike. Lowering the saddle makes the bike more stable and easier to manage on wet surfaces.
Lowering your saddle ensures that you have complete control while you ride since you can simply place your feet on the ground and balance the bike. If you want to manage icy patches like a pro when there's snow, simply lower your center of gravity.
Use Defensive Driving Skills Near Motorists
There are fewer cyclists on city roads during winter, and hence, people on bikes are less visible. Conversely, roads become narrower, and motorists become impatient. When the roads are snowy, there is a greater chance of motorists making detrimental mistakes.
As a cyclist, you must adhere to traffic rules and be more accommodating. Ensure that you're familiar with all the traffic rules in your respective city. Take your time to see what the next person on the road wants to do.
Optimize Your Bike for Winter Riding
You need to ensure that your bike has all the essential accessories for winter riding. First, your bike needs large tires for a broader contact point and improved surface traction. The tires should also have a knobbier tread and low pressure for easier maneuvering.
More importantly, you need to stay visible by investing in a new set of lights and reflectors. The gloomy and snowy conditions will impair visibility and make it harder for other motorists to see you.
Take Quieter Off-Street Paths
Although snowplows typically clear out the main streets first after a snowstorm, riding off-street allows you to evade the heavy traffic and stay safe. If there are quieter routes for cyclists in your city, you should opt for such paths since they are safer and less busy.
Regardless of whether you're in a hurry or not, riding on off-street trails allows you to escape the hustles and bustles of busier streets and stay alert at all times.
Although snow, grit, and ice can make riding a daunting experience during winter, this doesn't mean that you should keep your bike indoors and change your mode of transport.
By following these insightful tips for winter bike riding in major cities, you will stay focused and safe.
