by Michael Smith (Veshengro)
Bicycles, whether motorists will like it or not, are going to be the transportation of the future, as they were of the past, and that's why it is important to look after your bike.
Now, with winter on its way winter-proofing your bicycle is important too as it would be if it would be a motorbike. In fact, it is more a case of winter-proofing your cycling and yourself than the bike, but...
Stay visible
One of the most important things to consider, during winter, with the mornings being darker and it getting light later and it getting darker earlier is to have proper lights (and also the right clothing to me seen) when traveling the roads.
In all honesty it is more winter-proofing the rider than the bike in the case of a bicycle but there are also a few things that you should do to the bike, such as, as said already, good lights and such.
Carry a spare set of batteries on you for each and every essential light on your bicycle for all too easy, especially in cold weather, batteries will drain quickly and you are left without lights thus being unable to see and be seen.
Before you leave home – or wherever – to go wherever check that your lights are in working order, even if you think that you may not be traveling in the dark. And, as I have said already, do make sure you have a spare set of batteries on you for all of your lights. In addition carry a small LED flashlight for the “just in case scenario”.
Carry out regular maintenance checks
• Ensuring lights are working
• Checking tire pressures at least once a week and inflating them according to settings given on the tire
• Making sure brake pads have plenty of wear
• Ensure your chain has the correct amount of slack at the tightest spot (about 1 inch play)
Take heed of the conditions
One way to avoid cycling accidents in winter (and also other times) is to be more aware of the driving conditions. If roads are slippery or winds are strong, slow down, keep your distance and take extra care. If in doubt: don’t ride but get off and push.
In snow the pushing option is often the only one in areas that have not been cleaned and if it is too slushy and unsafe.
The same goes for icy patches. There too you get off and push. Don't try to push on regardless. That can cause you to lose control and get hit by a vehicle.
While it may be, theoretically, illegal in most places to ride on the pavement, the sidewalk, in some conditions and cases it should be considered and if done with care and by giving pedestrians the courtesy and priority that they deserve then it should be fine and, as far as I am concerned, the law should actually be changed to allow it, and not just in winter.
Wear protective goggles when cycling, whether in snow and ice or not, and in real winter snow goggles may be what is required. Wear the proper clothing that will keep you warm but will allow your body also to breathe. Proper gloves also are needed for your hands will be still most of the time and thus will not be kept warm through motion.
As I am personally against the use of those silly helmets, those environmental fruit bowls that do nothing, I will not mention the wearing of a helmet but some good head covering, such as a watch cap, is a must also.
Winter cycling, especially if you have to use your bike to get to work or to the shops, etc., and don't have a car and/or drive, is a challenge but one that can be overcome with the right mind set and the right kind of gear.
Be safe and stay safe on your iron steed in winter, and always.
© 2011
