First winter commuting by bike

[Ergates]

Thanks all.

I'll go get some base layers and a thin windproof.

Also, thanks on the foot warnings - I'd totally forgotten about my feet! Which is surprising as even the slightest chill turns them into blocks of ice.

 

[Crankarm]

Thanks all.

I'll go get some base layers and a thin windproof.

Also, thanks on the foot warnings - I'd totally forgotten about my feet! Which is surprising as even the slightest chill turns them into blocks of ice.

Endura socks, doubled up - the grey thinner ones on first then the thicker black winter ones on top.

Over shoes Endura MT500s even if not raining they keep your feet warm.

Hi-Viz yellow gilet with reflective Scotchlite on as there will be many occasions where your lights are not pointing at vehicles potentially crossing your path eg those steaming up to side junctions or on roundabouts.

Decathlon are grrrreat. They do lots of cheap fleece neck warmers, hats and gloves. But a few pairs so you've always got a clean or dry pair. It helps if you buy different colours.

Ronhill do very good windproof jackets. I just got one for running, blue and £25 (half price).

Base layers - Decathlon or a Helly Hansen warm baselayer or Icebreakers (pure merino wool £££ but you're worth it).

Lights - rear Smart lights cheap and reliable. Have as many as you can fit on your frame and rack!
Lights - front any as long as it is bright light and water tight. They all break or get lost sooner or later so I wouldn't spend a fortune, not £300 as are the cost of some lights. Cut up an old yoghurt pot with tin foil wrapped around the inside surface, then place around the light housing using elastic bands to focus the beam and to stop you becoming blinded when you stand on the pedals as your head moves forward right over it.

Get some decent panniers that keep your stuff dry without having to faff about with putting stuff in plastic bags.

Finally keep your bike clean ie the transmission and well lubed, but above all, if you have rim brakes KEEP THE WHEEL RIMS AND BRAKE BLOCKS CLEAN otherwise you will get premature rim wear which is costly when your bike's wheel rims need replacing as you haven't bothered to keep them clean. What happens is water, mud, crud, grit, oil and diesel forms an horrible abrasive paste which when you apply your brakes grinds down your rims plus makes your bike horrible to ride and increases stopping distance.

Apart from that winter is a joyous time to be cycling, I think not.