by Sofia Moreau

As the mercury falls, your spirits don’t have to follow suit. Embrace cycling’s winter challenges with the right gear and a can-do attitude. Remember, our winter miles result in summer smiles, promising fitness dividends during the warmer months. Yet, crawling out from under the blankets on frosty mornings, gearing up in layers of Lycra, and heading out into the cold, can definitely test your resolve.

As a dedicated cyclist preparing for my sixth winter season, I’ve sought encouragement from my resilient group of cycling compatriots, who’ve traversed through snow, ice, and gusty winds, balancing between riding outdoor and intensive indoor training sessions. They’ve shared invaluable tips and insights to keep me motivated during these winter months.

To Ride or Not to Ride? The Road vs. Off-Road Dilemma

Among the advice of my cycling counterparts, a popular method to combat winter boredom involves regular off-road rides. Combining mountain and cyclocross biking can bring a refreshing mix to winter training routines. For instance, an established road cyclist in my group revels in cyclocross during winter, not driven purely by competition, but rather a sense of community, meeting people from various walks of life and experiencing different locales in the blistering cold. The thrill of off-road biking in adverse weather conditions brings forth feelings of empowerment.

Another advantage of mountain biking, as emphasized by a cycling enthusiast who is also a marathon runner, and a mother, is its family-friendly aspect. Tagging along with her young son provides her with a safe and joyous shared cycling experience, while also serving as an excellent workout, as it involves more than just moving her own body weight. For many, off-road biking provides some much-needed solace during the winter, offering shelter in the woods, and a fun-filled adrenaline rush with daring jumps, drops, and twists.

But the question remains, if I’m not in the mood for biking, what are my other options?

Cycling Companions vs. Solo Rides

When asked, a majority of female cyclists stated that having a cycling buddy enhances their winter riding experience significantly. A few shared their love for group cycling (with a limit of six members, being mindful of current health guidelines) as it feels more social, helps pass time, and harnesses a sense of accountability amongst friends. Yet, some prefer the solo ride as it allows them to navigate safely, avoid obstacles easily, and rely solely on their own experience.

Brave the Cold and Outside, or Stay Warm and Inside?

For those who prefer staying cosy and warm, an indoor turbo trainer serves as an ideal winter training solution. With predictable conditions and no need for extensive cleanup, it saves both time and the discomfort of enduring chilly weather. However, others foresee spending more time outdoors this year, having invested in warmer cycling clothing and bikes with features such as disc brakes that are advantageous in wet conditions.

Winter Biking Wardrobe Essentials

Donning the right attire is crucial in winter biking. Thermal gear selection can make or break your riding experience, especially in rain or wind. A consensus among the cyclist’s panel leans towards having a good base layer, fleece-lined biblongs, and a protective winter jacket. They all agreed on the necessity to carry essentials including a tube, two tyre levers, a pump, lights, and advise to always check tyre pressures and remove any flint in the tyres. Some swear by their windproof jackets, shoe warmers, and merino socks for their winter rides.

So, as winter blankets the landscape in frost and snow, it doesn’t mean we have to hang up our helmets just yet. Yes, group gatherings may be paused and our spirits may droop slightly. However, this could be the best time to start indoor training or experience the thrill of mountain biking. With proven benefits of fresh air and exercise to our mental wellbeing, why not embrace the season and soak up those chilly, yet exhilarating rides? Let’s buckle up and enjoy the ride into a frosty horizon!

winter cycling, indoor cycling, off-road biking, mountain biking, training in cold, winter biking gear, solo cycling, cycling companions, turbo trainer, winter biking attire, bicycling motivation, cyclocross, cycling workouts, bicycling health benefits