Winter Riding Newbie

[Downward]

The worst time last year was November when it snowed. After a slow ride home I was 20 mins from home when the snow turned to sleet. Then you get wet and very cold.

 

[akaAndrew]

Where do you live scaryant and what's your commute?

 

[Big Jack Brass]

A Buff is indeed well worth packing, not least because it fits neatly under a helmet. Call me a pansy but I always think there's more chance of a head injury in winter.

On second thoughts, don't call me a pansy - I'm new here

Depending on your route you might find a pair of Yaktrax extremely useful. My commute involves a number of quiet residential roads and sections through a rather open riverside park, all very prone to heavy ice. After a couple of bad spills I took to packing the Yaktrax, slipping them on and pushing the bike across the icy stretches if necessary. Probably not essential if you are able to stick to busier roads, though. More generally useful: I make sure to carry a down gilet or similar extra top. Stopping to fix a puncture is when you really start to freeze.

 

[Downward]

Buffs are great, keeps your ears warm too

 

[PBancroft]

A buff is a must for the really cold days. Keeps your ears and face toasty.

Completely agree.

I keep a buff in my bag autumn thru spring. Not necessary most of the time, but considering the weight for the odd time you get caught out, its worth it.

 

[MickL]

Im slowly building my winter kit up, All ready have Sealskin socks to keep feet dry and warm, waterproof fleece hat that covers my ears and sits nicely under my helmet, Have enough base layers and fleece type tops from camping which do the trick for me (Peter Storm mostly), Just one question though is it worth sticking nobblys back on my wheels during the winter months ?

 

[another_dave_b]

Studded tyres. Perhaps not an issue in a city, but for icy roads a must.