Winter Bike Rides
5 TIPS FOR FUN WINTER BIKE RIDES
#1 Take your time and BE VISIBLE
While the tendency is to try and get from point A to point B as fast as possible, during the winter its best to just slow it down. During winter there are visibility concerns so be mindful of anything on the road covering the grippy surface of the pavement. Winter speed demons should go skiing instead. Remain visible to drivers, and if you are on the trail, call out to dog walkers, hikers and other riders well in advance.
#2 Set up your bike up for winter riding
Getting your bike winter ready requires a different approach than summer. Eric Mason of Lititz Bikeworks suggests the right tires. “We recommend a bike that with a reasonably wide set of tires, knobbier tread and low tire pressure,” he says all will help ride with winter bike rides. Eric also recommends wet chain lube to protect against road salt and grime.
#3 Layer properly
Staying warm out in the elements can be a little trickier in winter. Layering properly is no secret and should be taken seriously. Natural base layer fibers like merino wool work best, followed up with a mid layer of light insulation, topped off with a comfortable, windproof shell. Mark Branle, store owner and winter bike rides enthusiast recommends “It’s an investment in comfort. For the serious riders getting Goretex shoe covers and pants will keep you dry if you are out all day. Icy fingers and toes will end your day really quickly. At minimum, he suggests, a good set of ski gloves will do, but there are better, biking specific options out there.”
#4 Use the Rail Trail
Taking quieter roads or rail trails can keep you away from busy vehicle traffic. “This year has been quite dry and comfortable, so all the trails are clear for riding” adds Branle. “Park at the municipal building in Lititz and ride to Ephrata and enjoy a hot coffee at Griddle and Grind. This is a 14 mile loop that is ideal and safe for a lot of riders”
#5 – Clean your bike
Just because it hasn’t snowed in awhile doesn’t mean there isn’t grit and grime out there. Winter bike rides seem to attract all the dirt the trail has to offer, so it’s good to stay on top and give your bike a good wipe after each ride. Ideally storing it inside is possible but if not, Mark suggests keeping your bike under some type of cover or tarp. “Most bike shops have quick turnaround for service during the off-season, and we suggest if you do winter bike rides, bring your bike in for a tuneup once or twice to keep your bike running optimally.”, says Eric.
