Winter Cycling
As a Canadian bike shop we frequently get asked, "What do we do in the winter when there's snow on the ground?" The answer is, we ride our bikes!
WHY? Because its Fun!
People always ask, "Why would you ride during winter?". The answer is simple, it's a blast!
Being into cycling doesn't mean you are always out to win a race. Fat biking allows you to explore beautiful snow covered areas that you may have otherwise not seen. Winter riding can take you to trails that are usually not an option in the summer because of sandy conditions. The cold temperatures mixed with a layer of snow make those sandy trails open for business.
While there are fat bike races, the majority of people who ride them are in it for the pure pleasure of being outside. We all get those winter blues. Instead of dreading winter, why not enjoy it.
Fat Bikes
The first thing you need when riding in the snow is the right vehicle for the job. Fat bikes feature 26" or 650b (27.5") wheels with tires that range from 4 inch to 5 inches wide. The tires are wide and run with very low pressures. From 3psi to 10psi typically depending on conditions and rider preference. This large low pressure surface area allows fat bikes to float on top packed snow.
There are a variety of models to choose from at all sorts of different price ranges. To help you find the right one for your needs and budget you are best to come on into the store where our trained staff can help guide you down the right path.
Dealing with Ice.
Yup, it gets slippery. Without the proper tires it can get torturous out there.
With the kind of winters we had over the past few years, the trails can become dangerous. We get melts, the water freezes, then we get snow over top.
Studded tires can really save your butt when that fresh snow covered trail has a base of ice. They can also open up the possibility of riding on the frozen lake. A ton of our local riders go out on Lake Simcoe with fat bikes equipped with studded tires for kilometers of open space to ride.
Keep Those Toes Warm
If your feet go numb, your days is done.
Winter cycling boots will keep you warm while maintaining the stiff performance you want out of a cycling shoe. They can work with platform or clipless (clipped in) pedals depending on a riders preference.
In addition to good boots, a fresh warm pair of merino wool socks go a long way to added warmth and comfort.
Layer Up
Keep yourself warm by adding layers. You're going to be cold when you first get out there, but we're going biking. You will get hot and you're going to want to shed those layers.
Most riders will wear their typical riding jerseys and shorts underneath a jacket and pants. Adding accessories like arm warmers and leg/knee warmers that can easily be taken off, will give you the power to keep your body temperature where you want it.
Don't forget your gloves! Gloves like these Giro 100 Proof give you the warmth of a big winter mitten while allowing you to still work your shifters and brakes.
Everyone's threshold for getting cold is different and there isn't one magic answer for what works for you. It is best to start out with too much than too little when it comes to clothing.
Fat bikes are built and ready to ride. Come in and check them out today.
Questions? Contact us at info@spokeomotion.com or call 905 853-9545