Commuting in the ice and snow

Commuting in the ice and snow

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If you are a regular commuter, how can you improve your safety and comfort when the temperatures dip below zero.

Check the forecast

If there is a chance of snow or ice, keep an eye on a few different weather forecasts and make a decision based on the worst forecast. Forecast accuracy improves the nearer you get to the time so, check before you go to bed and again  in the morning. It can also be useful to have an external thermometer at your house so that you can check for sub-zero temperatures and the chance of ice.

Be sensible

We all like to keep our cycling mileage up through the winter and avoid the frustration of driving or public transport but, if the forecast is really poor, ask yourself if riding really is the sensible option.

Plan your route

In icy conditions, you might want to make some alterations to your commuting route. It can be better to stick to larger roads which are more likely to have been gritted and be ice free. Small roads, especially if trees overhang them, can stay frozen even for your ride home as the sun won’t get onto them. Also many cycle lanes won’t have been treated so, take care.

Allow extra time

If you suspect that conditions are going to be poor, give yourself some extra time to get in. Traffic may be moving slower, sections of road may be impassable and you may have to get off and walk. More time will mean that you don't have to rush and won’t feel pressured into taking unnecessary risks.

Let people know

If there is a group of you who regularly cycle into work, create a buddy system so that there is always someone who knows you’re riding in. Make sure that your buddy is aware of the route you will be taking and what time you expect to be in. If you are riding home, let your partner know what time you are setting off and when you expect to be back. If you live on your own, arrange to text your buddy when you arrive home.

Dress well

Make sure you dress appropriately for the conditions. You may well be riding more slowly than usual and might need an extra layer. Pay particular attention to your hands, feet and head and ensure you wear glasses to avoid streaming eyes. Carry an extra warm outer layer in case you have to stop for a mechanical, puncture or if the road conditions deteriorate and make riding unsafe.

Carry spares

In bad conditions it is vitally important to be able to fix any problems, such as a puncture, quickly before you start to significantly chill. Ensure you carry all the spares and tools necessary to deal with most issues and have the knowledge to use them.

Drop your pressure

Lowering your tyre pressure slightly can improve your grip. However, don’t go too low as you will increase the risk of pinch punctures.

Be visible

Even if you are commuting in daylight hours, in cold weather, it is vital to be visible. Other road users will be concentrating more on their own vehicles, may struggle to see you and, with stopping distances increased, you will benefit from them seeing you from further away. There is also a significant risk of patches of freezing fog so, even if you set out under clear skies, make sure you are well lit up.

Stay relaxed

If you do suddenly hit an unexpected patch of snow or ice, stay relaxed, avoid drastic steering inputs and keep off your brakes. You can find more advice here on dealing with hazardous road surfaces. If you don’t think you have the confidence or skill to cope, maybe leave your bike in the shed during the cold snap.

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