Winter Biking

Winter doesn’t mean your bike goes into storage. With the proper equipment and clothing, cycling in winter provides all the same benefits as in fair weather.

“We know that many youth have never ridden bikes, much less tried riding when temperatures dip below freezing and there’s snow on the ground. But winter doesn’t mean your bike goes into storage. With the proper equipment and clothing, cycling in winter provides all the same benefits as in fair weather: It’s freedom to get where you want to go. The bonus is that when you’re pedalling, you’re keeping warmer than just standing around. 

“Just like our fall and spring programs, we give youth experience to help them determine if winter cycling is something they might want to consider,” says Laura Shutiak, Youth en Route’s executive director. “We know its not for everyone, but many people who try cycling in winter love it. Getting exercise outside in winter is really a breath of fresh, cool air – like rushing down a ski hill. “ 

Of course, it’s much easier to cycle in winter with advances in technology. Fat bikes with extra wide tires act like snowshoes to ride on top of the snow. But you don’t need to spend money on a new bike. Fenders and studded tires can winterize almost any bike. There are many options and price points for studs on tires. Some people even get the tools needed to add studs to any bike tire. And of course, when a Chinook blows in, many pathways and roads are bare and dry and easy to ride on.