Use Extreme Caution!

Not every winter day is a cycling day. Some days it is better to leave your bicycle at home. Riding in the snow is a challenge even for very highly skilled cyclists. Use discretion.

• If you feel comfortable riding in the snow, remember that drivers can't stop as quickly and the roads may be narrower because of the snow piled at the curb.
• Icy conditions are never recommended for cycling.

If you choose to ride in the winter, here are some suggestions.

• Lessen tire pressure to the low end of recommended range (written on tire sidewall) to increase traction.
• Adjust your fenders, if necessary, so that there is lots of room between the fender and tire to avoid snow build up.
• Clips are not recommended in snowy or icy conditions; you may have to put your feet down in a hurry.
• Cyclists are divided in their opinions about what tires work best. Thick-tread mountain bike tires will increase traction/grip on snow (particularly good for hard packed), whereas thin tires will cut through the snow (particularly good for loose snow) to the pavement. Some people use studded tires; these are noisy on dry pavement but particularly good for ice.
• Snow banks may cause you to ride further out in a lane. If you need to move out from the curb be sure to communicate your intentions with other traffic. Shoulder check to make sure it's safe to move out, signal, do a second shoulder check to make sure it's still clear, and then move out.
• Let your bicycle get cold outside before riding-less snow will stick to it if it's already cold.
• Carry either a lighter, WD40, or light machine oil, in case your lock freezes; try adding a drop of oil or graphite lock lubricant in the locking mechanism to prevent freezing.
• Remember to take your water bottle inside to prevent freezing!
• If you encounter black ice, steer straight, don't pedal, and try not to brake as this could cause you to skid and fall.
• Avoid riding over snow--it may hide ice-and avoid riding over snow banks; stay on wet pavement.
• Leave extra room for braking.
• Railroad tracks and bridges will be icy when other road surfaces are not.
• Shift often to prevent snow from jamming up the chain.
• Leave extra time to cycle slower in wet and snowy conditions.
• Plan your route in advance, and have an alternative in mind in case of snow or ice.