Riding in Cold Weather
Of course you already know that it’s even more important than usual to drive safely when the weather is cold. In bad weather conditions, it’s necessary to pay attention to wet and icy roads, to make the riding experience as safe as possible.
Don’t forget to keep warm. Liners under helmets can help keep heat in, and of course don’t forget to dress properly—hopefully you have some cold weather riding gear. It’s much easier to drive, and keep your concentration sharp when your body is warm. Getting too cold can cause our body reactions to slow down, and if you start thinking about how cold you are, you might not notice the patch of ice that’s coming up. Especially keep your hands warm—a good pair of gloves are vital to ensuring an enjoyable ride in cold weather.
It’s always best to completely avoid slippery spots in the road. If those spots can’t be avoided, make sure you are driving at a reasonable speed to be able to deal with any wet and/or slippery areas. Be sure to reduce your speed enough when you are going around corners—it can be harder to stop if the roads are in less than perfect shape.
When you need to brake on slippery surfaces—it is usually best to use both brakes. Applying the brakes slowly and gradually can help keep the front wheel from locking up. Also, if you are moving at a very low speed, you can try using your feet to help by letting them slide on the road—this can also help prevent a fall.
Be especially vigilant for obstacles, debris, and oil spots in the road—anticipate any potential problems, and manage your speed appropriately.
By being smart, and keeping warm, you can effectively and comfortably ride in cold weather, which can extend your riding season.