Cyclists can give winter the cold shoulder

By Kai Kolwitz Nov 3, 2011, 3:07 GMT

Berlin - It's impossible not to notice that cycling is growing in popularity in many cities as a healthy and speedy way to get to work. But, not surprisingly, the numbers taking to their bikes plummets during the cold winter months.

However, with a little bit of preparation, it is still possible to dispense with travelling by car, train or bus on enough days in winter to retain the physical condition achieved by cycling during the rest of the year.

'I cycle an awful lot during the winter. I consider it the most important period in the year for ensuring I am fit for the following season,' says 22-year-old mountain bike professional Amir Kabbani. 'You have to really think about what clothes to wear. Otherwise you'll be so cold after your first cycle that you won't be able to do anything.'

Jens Hegler is also an expert when it comes to cycling in cold conditions, considering he has crossed Lapland during winter on his bike. 'If you are slightly cold starting out on your cycle then you have the perfect amount of clothing on,' he says.

It's very important not to sweat too much. Underclothing should be made of polyester or wool as cotton soaks up all the sweat. Several thin layers of clothing are better than a thick pullover, while a breathable rain jacket or windbreaker is also a good idea.

It's not necessary to spend a fortune on outdoor clothing if you are only cycling in the city, explains Wilhelm Hoermann of the German Cycling Federation. He recommends trying different clothing each winter to find out which attire best suits your needs.

It's essential that both trousers and jackets are brightly coloured to make you more visible to other road users during the dark winter months. Reflective materials are also recommended.

'These are often integrated into cycle clothing,' explains Rainer Hauck of the German Transport Club, who also believes cyclists should always wear reflective safety vests over their clothing. 'Luminescent loops on rucksacks and jackets are a good idea because their angle constantly changes, making them more reflective than stationary reflectors.'

For the same reason, the lights on a bicycle have to function perfectly during winter. 'If you have an old light, it might be an idea to consider switching to LED technology or investing in a hub dynamo,' says Hauck. 'These often also offer a stationary light function.'

Before considering using a bike in winter, it is also essential to oil any of the bike's moving parts, grease all open cables and test brakes. 'A lot of bike dealers offer a winter service, which costs in the region of 40 to 50 euros (55 to 70 dollars), and then you are certain that you are ready to go,' explains Hauck.

It's also a good idea to regularly remove any grime and salt, which can erode a bike's frame and seals. 'First remove the large pieces of dirt with a cloth or brush before washing and oiling the bike several times with a damp cloth,' says Hauck.

Kabbani says his rule when cycling in icy conditions is that 'speed brings security' although he doesn't recommend this course of action when cycling in traffic. Instead, Kabbani says there should be no sudden changes of direction or any hard braking.

Hegler, meanwhile, says the back brake should be the only one used in dangerous conditions. 'A skidding back wheel will find grip again faster than a front wheel,' he explains.

Cyclists prepared to brave any conditions should consider investing in studded tyres or special winter ones with a softer rubber compound. Other options include lowering the saddle so that you can regain your balance faster in an emergency, and reducing the amount of pressure in the tyres to ensure a greater contact surface with the road.

However, there are limits to cycling in winter. 'Black ice is dangerous, as is thaw weather, when new layers of ice form on old ones,' warns Hegler, who recommends leaving the bicycle at home on such days.