8 safety tips for winter biking
Not ready to store your bike when the snow falls? It’s possible to keep biking now because of our milder winters. But before you hit the road, you have to be ready to handle the snow, slush, cold and anything else the weather has in store for you.
1. First step: the tune-up
Get your ride ready before the first snowfall.
If you want to be safe out there, plan for a tune-up that includes several steps:
- Adjust the air pressure of your tires for better traction and grip
- Adjust your brakes to be able to stop more quickly
- Grease the gears so they shift smoothly
- Tighten the bolts and screws to prevent loosening
- Clean and lubricate the chain to extend the lifespan of the parts
- Inspect everything thoroughly to prevent issues and fully enjoy your bike
2. Gear up your bike for winter
Do you have to ride a “fat bike” in winter? Not necessarily. You just need to get tires that are suited to your current bike model.
Mountain bike
Go with regular tires, inflated at a lower pressure, for better grip in milder conditions.
Save studded tires for snowy or icy conditions. Since most of the grip comes from the front wheel, you can install one on the front only.
Hybrid or cyclocross bike
These are bikes you can count on in harsh winter conditions! Due to more space between the bike’s frame and tires, they can be fitted with wide 700c tires. Use studded models if you're riding on snowy or icy surfaces.
Live in milder weather? Slightly deflate your wide tires for better grip.
Road bike
It might be best to store it for the winter. Its smooth tires offer poor grip, and you could get injured.
If you live in an area that gets a lot of rain, go with the widest tires possible (700 x 30c or larger).
Unfortunately, studded tires are not a good option. Your bike doesn’t have enough clearance.
Oversized tire bikes
It’s the Cadillac for winter riding! Bring on the snow, slush or ice. These bikes are built to handle anything.
Equip yours with tires that are 4 to 5 inches wide. If they’re studded, even better!
3. A well-oiled machine
To keep rust from taking hold on your chain, use a wax-based lubricant, or one made especially for humid conditions, at least three times a month.
After each ride, wipe your chain thoroughly.
4. Stopping power
Sintered metal brake pads are ideal for disc brakes, especially in winter.
If using cantilever or V-brakes, opt for curved brake pads to better clear mud.
5. Make sure you’re seen
In winter, light is scarce, and weather conditions can reduce visibility. Equip your bike with headlights: white in the front, red in the back.
To see the road well, use a headlight with 150 lumens or more. For well-lit areas, 60 to 150 lumens will suffice.
If your lights use batteries, carry spares as they can be unreliable at times in the cold.
6. Adios splashes!
Don’t skimp on fenders in winter! They’re truly indispensable and will protect you from all kinds of splashes.
Go with a model that you can attach to the down tube or seat post to prevent snow buildup.
7. Adjust your seat
Lower your bike seat for winter. Pedalling will be more difficult, and you’ll need to put your foot down more often.
8. Winter clothes
To enjoy your rides, but above all to avoid frostbite, opt for tried-and-true winter gear.
It’s all about balancing too hot and too cold. Layering is your best friend. Choose breathable fabrics to wick away moisture.
When it’s raining, wear waterproof pants and jackets with sealed seams.
In extreme cold, wear insulated, water-resistant cycling tights.
Last but not least, wear a high-visibility vest and ski goggles.
Not the DIY type?
If bike maintenance isn’t your thing, you can ride a BIXI year-round (This hyperlink will open in a new tab). Their bikes are specially adapted and maintained to withstand winter’s harsh conditions.
Coverage that does the pedalling for you
Did you know your beloved bike is covered under your home insurance? Yes! It’s true! You read that right!
As a matter of fact, all the bikes under your roof are covered, regardless of where they’re located or their value.