Good Grief November is Here! Get Your Bike Ready for Winter Cycling!

Thunder Bay – As those cold north winds start nipping at your nose and gloves become mandatory in Thunder Bay, biking enthusiasts and commuters alike might consider hanging up their helmets for the season.

However, biking in winter is the “new” Cross Country Skiing.

But with the right preparation, winter biking can be a practical and enjoyable way to get around, offering exercise, fresh air, and reduced vehicle use.

Here’s a guide on gearing up for winter biking in Thunder Bay, covering essentials from what to wear and staying visible to bike maintenance tips and specific advice for e-bike riders.

Dressing for Winter Biking

Winter cycling demands strategic layering and careful choice of gear to keep you warm without overheating. Here’s what to consider:

1. Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin, helping you stay dry and warm.
2. Insulating Layer: Add a mid-layer for insulation, such as a fleece or thermal jacket, which can be adjusted based on temperature and exertion.
3. Outer Layer: A windproof, water-resistant jacket is crucial for cutting the wind and blocking out precipitation. Look for cycling-specific jackets with longer backs and reflective features.
4. Legs: Insulated cycling pants or thermal leggings work well. Opt for pants with water-resistant properties, especially if there’s slush on the roads.
5. Hands: Insulated, windproof gloves with touchscreen compatibility are ideal for keeping hands warm while allowing access to your phone or e-bike controls.
6. Feet: Waterproof boots or shoe covers are essential. Wool socks help retain warmth, and thicker socks will fit inside slightly larger shoes or boots, accommodating extra insulation.
7. Head and Face: A thermal cap under your helmet, plus a balaclava or face mask, can shield you from wind and snow. Helmets with built-in visors or goggles provide additional face protection from wind and debris.

Staying Visible on Winter Roads

Short winter days and snowy conditions reduce visibility, making it essential for cyclists to stand out to drivers and pedestrians. Plus as cyclists in Thunder Bay know all too well, motorists seem to figure bikers are invisible.

So, here’s how to stay seen:

1. Lights: Bright front and rear lights are non-negotiable. Choose a white front light and a red rear light, both of which should be powerful enough to cut through fog and falling snow.
2. Reflective Clothing and Gear: Wear jackets and pants with reflective strips or consider reflective vests, ankle bands, or even tape for your bike frame and helmet.
3. Bright-Colored Accessories: If possible, choose bright-colored outerwear, especially in yellow, orange, or neon shades, which stand out in the snow.
4. Additional Reflectors: Reflectors on your wheels, pedals, and bike frame increase side visibility, especially useful at intersections and in low-light conditions.

Winter Bike Maintenance Tips

Winter conditions can take a toll on your bike, so taking extra steps to maintain it will ensure it’s ready to roll through the season.

1. Choose the Right Tires: Studded tires offer extra grip on icy roads. For extra snowy conditions, wider tires with deeper tread will provide better traction and control.
2. Lubricate Often: Cold and wet conditions quickly wear down bike chains and gears, so apply a wet-weather lubricant regularly to keep parts moving smoothly.
3. Clean Regularly: Salt and slush can corrode metal, so rinse your bike, especially the drivetrain, after every ride. Wipe down the frame and use a brush to reach tight spots.
4. Adjust Tire Pressure: Lowering your tire pressure slightly can increase traction on slippery surfaces, but make sure not to go too low, as this can damage your rims.
5. Protect Your Brakes: Winter grime can affect braking. Clean the rims (if you have rim brakes) or the rotors (if you have disc brakes) and check pads regularly, as they’ll wear out faster in winter conditions.

Winter Biking with an E-Bike

For those riding an electric bike, winter biking is possible but requires extra attention due to the electronics involved. Here are some tips:

1. Battery Care: Cold temperatures can impact battery performance, so keep your e-bike battery warm when it’s not in use. If possible, store the bike indoors, or bring the battery inside if the bike is stored outside.
2. Protect Electronics: Snow and slush can damage the motor and display, so consider installing fenders if you haven’t already. Waterproof covers for the display can provide extra protection from ice and moisture.
3. Smooth and Controlled Riding: E-bikes tend to be heavier and can accelerate quickly, so ride at a controlled speed to avoid skidding. Use lower power settings when navigating icy patches.
4. Battery Range Awareness: Cold weather can shorten battery life, so plan routes with this in mind and ensure your battery is fully charged before each ride. If possible, bring along a charger for mid-trip recharging options.

Final Tips for Winter Biking in Thunder Bay

• Practice Routes: Test out winter routes on quieter roads or bike paths first, building confidence in icy conditions.
• Emergency Supplies: Carry essentials like a small bike repair kit, a charged phone, and extra gloves or socks in case of unexpected breakdowns or temperature drops.
• Plan Ahead: Check the weather forecast before riding, and be prepared to change plans if conditions worsen.

There are some amazing bike shops in our city, from Community Spokes on Simpson Street to 3ride on Red River Road in Goods & Co, to Petrie’s and Fresh Air Experience along with Rolling Thunder. Get in early for your fall bike tune-up.

With the right preparations, winter biking in Thunder Bay can be a rewarding experience that helps you stay active and reduce reliance on motor vehicles.

Embrace the winter months on two wheels, and enjoy a new way to explore Thunder Bay’s snowy scenery.