There are many who question my sanity for riding all year round. Having taken winters off from cycling in the past, I found myself questioning why I shouldnt ride in winter. There are definitely things that can make winter riding a challenge, but most of them can be dealt with by the application of logic, and in many cases cash.
I am often asked if I get cold riding in winter, and the answer is always no. I learned many years ago that clothing layers are the cyclist's friend. I also have learned through experimentation how much clothing is necessary to stay warm at a given temperature. My advice to anyone riding in cold weather is to dress in layers, and to have a way to carry extra layers that are shed during a ride. There are lots of different high tech clothing options for light and heat retaining layers.
The biggest issue for most riders in the cold is how to keep hands and feet warm. If at all possible, don't spare expense here. I use Eurotex ski gloves, and have found that they will keep my hands toasty down to 10F (-12C). My feet have been a bigger problem until recently, when I shelled out for a pair of Lake winter cycling boots. These look like Doc Martins with SPD cleats, and will keep my feet warm down to 10F with two pairs of socks on.
Another thing for consideration is weather. It's important to know whether you as a cyclist can deal with road conditions given the weather at the moment. My biggest concern is for sheet ice (black ice as it's known). It is very easy tomlosenyournteaction on this, and I have scars to prove this. If you encounter ice on the road, don't make any sudden movements on the bike, and be ready to put your feet down to stop a fall. Better yet, if you know there's sheet ice on the roads, save your bike commute for another day. I will ride in snow and rain, but not when there's sheet ice.
I find winter to be one of the best times of the year to cycle. There is little risk of overheating, and yet it's easy to stay warm enough with a little planning. I will save what this season can do to a bike for another posting.
