Tip No.1: Don’t Sweat

This may sound like a simple task given the frigid temperatures, but it’s not always as easy as it seems. According to Jonas, “If you sweat, you will be cold afterwards. You need to stay dry in winter, so take it easy on the climbs, and if necessary, open your jersey.”

Many riders have the tendency to dress for comfort when they first step foot outside, but in reality, you should dress for how you’ll feel when pedaling at a steady tempo—and prioritize smarter layering. That way, when efforts and gradients increase, you don’t end up a hot, sweaty mess at the summit or soaked and cold on the long, windy descent.

Tip No.2: Protect Your Digits

Nothing can ruin a great ride faster than frozen fingers and toes, which is why Jonas’ next tip is critical: “Good shoes and gloves are key.” Of course, core warmth is important, but it’s the areas with the least blood flow that need the most protection from the elements.

“There are excellent options for any temperature. Look for shoes you can combine with overshoes. For gloves, you can use a pair where the fingers are together as they tend to stay warmer.”

Remember: warm feet are happy feet, and happy feet ride faster.

Tip No.3: Add Mid-Route Motivation

Often, overcoming the difficulties of cold-weather cycling is as much of a mental challenge as it is physical. To help, Jonas recommends a simple winter riding hack: “Look up a nice coffee place at your halfway point; having this as your motivation will help.”

Beyond providing a bit of mid-ride fuel and a much-needed opportunity to warm back up before setting out again, a coffee stop on the horizon means something to look forward to during the first, early-morning miles when the temperatures are likely to be at their lowest.

Just remember to shed a few layers as you shelter from the cold. You don’t want to forget Tip No.1 during your café break.

Tip No.4: Ride Wide

Low temperatures aren’t the only obstacle to overcome on late-season cycling adventures. Slippery, treacherous under-tire conditions also add to the challenge. For this, Jonas recommends going gravel: “Consider taking your gravel bike, even if you are riding on roads. It’s simply safer on icy roads—and more comfortable.”

The tread found on most gravel-bike tires provides better traction on slick terrain while the wider profile means more surface area for increased contact and a lower likelihood of getting stuck in soft snow. Plus, who doesn’t want some excellent photos of their favorite gravel bike surrounded by a winter wonderland?

Tip No.5: Keep Drinking

The last winter riding tip is one that applies to outings any time of year but is often prioritized less on chilly spins: “Stay hydrated…most people don't drink enough when it is cold.” Remember even if you are strictly adhering to Jonas’ first tip and avoiding sweating, it’s still critical to keep sipping. Dehydration can happen in any season, after all.

As a bonus, all that extra liquid might come in handy in the most extreme winter scenarios. According to Deichmann: “If your chain freezes, peeing on it helps.”

With these tips and the right equipment, we hope your winter riding season is full of great cycling adventures. And if you need any motivation to get out and to get moving, give Jonas a follow on Instagram @jonas_deichmann