Winter Cycling Tips

Though we’ve not had any snow yet, its certainly been icy these last few days. For safer cycling this winter, consider these tips from Dr Bike:

• If you have a set of knobbly tyres, put them on your bike.
• Let some air out of your tyres; softer tyres will give a bit more grip.
• Cycle slowly and use your rear brake rather than your front. A skidding front tyre is harder to control than a rear.
• Try to relax and sit back a bit, cycling hunched nervously over the handlebars while gripping on to them probably means this isn’t for you.
• As ever, anticipate hazards and brake early, preferably using the rear brake.
• Steer slowly and smoothly; avoid sudden sharp movements and be careful as you turn from snowy minor roads to clearer main roads as this is where you might find icy ruts.
• Wear warm old clothes and get changed once you’ve arrived.
• Even if you don’t normally wear a helmet, it is advisable when riding in snow and ice.

Check out our Sustainable Travel Factsheet Series for more tips for ‘Cycling in Winter’