In this article, we use so-called affiliate links. With every purchase through these links, we receive a commission from the merchant. All relevant referral links are marked with . Learn more.
In winter, many cycle commuters are faced with the question of whether they should also use their bike during the cold season. "Yes, of course!" is the answer. After all, there are numerous advantages to choosing to cycle in winter. Firstly, you stay physically active and even strengthen your immune system - an important factor in staying healthy through the cold season. You may be able to avoid public transport with people coughing and sneezing. What's more, cycling is often the fastest and most flexible way to get around the city, regardless of traffic jams. Cycling is also the better ecological choice, as it produces no emissions. Finally, commuting by bike can be cheaper than other modes of transport and therefore easier on the wallet. The little bit of bike maintenance in between will practically take care of itself, won't it?
As we don't usually live on Fuerteventura, cycling in winter also has weather-related disadvantages. Cold, rain, snow and slippery conditions can make cycling a challenge. Low temperatures and wind chill make for cold ears and fingers, while rain and snow can impair visibility and riding safety. The risk of falling increases considerably in icy conditions, especially on frozen or snow-covered roads. Darkness in the winter months also requires increased attention in road traffic, as cyclists are often less visible than in summer.
The right equipment is crucial to arm yourself against these weather conditions. One Good winter jacket that is waterproof and windproofkeeps the body warm and dry. Thermal underwear can provide an additional layer of warmth. Special cycling gloves that are windproof and insulated prevent your fingers from cooling down. Warm and water-repellent shoes and thick (woollen) socks keep your feet warm. A scarf or bandana protects your neck and a cycle helmet with a cap underneath keeps your head warm. Reflective clothing and good lighting on your bike are also important to ensure you are visible and safe on the road in the darker months. With the right preparation, nothing stands in the way of cycling in winter so that you can fully enjoy the benefits even in the cold season.
That's why we've put together a selection of offers in various areas, especially for cycling to work in winter.
Cycling clothing
When cycling in winter, the right layering of clothing plays a key role in staying warm and dry. The base layer, also known as the baselayer, is crucial as it is worn directly on the skin and ensures that perspiration - should it occur on the way to work - is efficiently wicked away. Baselayers keep the body warm by wicking moisture away from the skin, preventing it from cooling down. An insulating layer is placed on top to store heat. The outer layer is the jacket and trousers, which should be windproof and waterproof. This layer protects against the elements by keeping out cold wind, rain and snow.
- Thermal underwear: Gore Wear M Windstopper Base Layer >> available here
- or the favourable variant: Van Rysel underwear >> available here
- Rain jacket: Endura MT500 Waterproof Jacket >> available here
- Softshell jacket: Gore Wear Infinium Thermo Jacket >> available here
- Winter jacketVaude Posta Insulation Jacket >> available here
- Rain trousersGonso Save Thermo rain trousers >> available here
- or as an alternative: Vaude Fluid Pants >> available here
- Gravel shoesShimano SH-RX600 >> available here
- GlovesVaude Posta Warm Gloves >> available here
Protection for the head
When cycling in winter, a scarf, hat and goggles are important pieces of equipment that offer both protection and comfort. The helmet - which is always with you when cycling anyway - should be compatible with winter accessories: a thin cap or a special helmet liner made from a warm, breathable material fits well under most helmets and keeps your head warm. A scarf or a tube scarf (buff) made of windproof material protects the neck and can be pulled over the mouth and nose if necessary to keep out cold air. Good cycling goggles with clear, slightly tinted or preferably self-tinting lenses protect your eyes from wind, snow and falling rain and improve your vision in different light conditions - even in the dark. It is important that the goggles fit well and do not fog up to ensure unrestricted vision. We have found the following products, for example.
- Bicycle helmetPOC Omne Ultra MIPS Gravel Helmet >> available here
- Multifunctional scarfBuff Dryflx >> available here
- Photochromic sunglassesOakley Sutro >> available here
- Underhelmet capVaude Bike Windproof >> available here
Visibility in road traffic
In winter, visibility on the road is particularly important for cyclists, as the days are shorter and weather conditions such as fog, rain or snow can impair visibility. To be clearly visible, you should wear bright, reflective clothing and accessories. Reflectors on jackets, trousers and shoes significantly increase visibility in the dark. Powerful front and rear lights on the bike are also essential, ideally with different light modes so that you can react to changing lighting conditions. Flashing lights can also attract the attention of other road users, but are not permitted as the sole source of light under the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations. These measures can significantly increase your own safety and allow you to enjoy cycling safely even in the darker months of the year.
- HeadlightsB + M Lumotec IQ-XM E-Bike LED >> available here
- Rear light: Lezyne Strip Drive LED >> available here
- Safety light for helmet coverWowow Magnetlight >> available here
- Reflex cuffVaude Reflective Cuff >> available here
- Reflective waistcoatCraft Visibility Vest reflective waistcoat >> available here
- or the favourable variant: Löffler Reflex Vest >> available here
Bicycle maintenance and care
Bike maintenance is particularly important in winter to ensure its functionality and longevity. Wetness, salt and dirt, which are often found on the roads, put a lot of strain on the material. Regular cleaning is therefore essential to prevent corrosion and wear. In particular, you should make sure to clean the bike chain well and then lubricate it with a suitable chain oil or wax to prevent rust formation. The brakes also need regular checks and care, as salt and dirt can impair their effectiveness. If you can, place your bike in a dry area after use to further reduce the surface area for rust. Maintenance is a small cost factor, as cleaning and lubrication should be carried out much more frequently than in summer. Here are a few offers.
- Brush setMuc-Off 3x Brush Set >> available here
- Bicycle cleanerMuc Off Bike Cleaner >> available here
- LubricantF100 dry lubricant >> available here
- Chain wax: Squirt Dry Lube chain wax >> available here
- Mudguard: SKS S-Board Gravel >> available here
Waterproof bags & rucksack
Waterproof bags and rucksacks are indispensable companions for winter cycling to work, as they reliably protect the contents from moisture and dirt. Whether it's a laptop, work documents or a change of clothes - everything stays dry in a waterproof bag, even in heavy rain or snowfall. These bags are usually made of special materials, such as coated nylon or PVC, which repel water and are robust enough to withstand the daily challenges of commuting. Another advantage is that many of these bags are equipped with reflective elements that further increase visibility in traffic. With a waterproof rucksack or bag, you can stay flexible and well prepared in winter without having to worry about your luggage.
- SaddlebagEvoc Seat Pack Boa >> available here
- Frame bagTopeak MidLoader >> available here
- Backpack pannier: Ortlieb Vario 26l >> available here
- Luggage carrier bagVaude Aqua Back >> available here
- Waterproof bag for your mobile phoneKlickfix PhoneBag >> available here
Marc Strucken
Editor
