Winter Bike Commuting: Because Cars Are Too Easy

Let’s be honest: riding your bike to work in winter isn’t for everyone. Most people take one look at a frost-covered saddle and reach for their car keys. But you're not most people.

Winter commuting isn't about proving a point (okay, maybe a little). It’s about keeping the stoke alive year-round, showing up to work awake instead of groggy, and actually enjoying the ride while the rest of the world suffers in traffic. But if you’re going to do it, you better do it right—because freezing your face off and skidding into rush hour traffic isn’t exactly a flex.

1. Prep the Night Before: Your Future Self Will Thank You

The number one reason people bail on winter commuting? Mornings suck. It’s too easy to roll over in bed, see 15°F on your weather app, and pretend that riding was never the plan. The fix? Take away the excuses.

• Lay out your gear. No fumbling for gloves while half-asleep.
• Check your bike. Tires inflated, chain lubed, lights charged—because mechanic work at 6 a.m. in the cold is not character-building, just miserable.
• Pack your stuff. Clothes, lunch, spare tube—because nobody wants to stress-pack before breakfast.

Get it all done the night before. The less thinking you have to do before coffee the better.

Pro tip: If ol' reliable is starting to look kinda sketch, check out the RLT 9 RDO, RLT 9 Steel and SIR 9 for workhorse commuter options.

2. Master the Art of Staying Warm (Without Overheating)

Winter riding isn’t about dressing for standing still—it’s about dressing for movement. Sweat is your enemy. If you overheat and soak your base layer, you’ll be freezing for the rest of the ride. Here’s how to layer like you actually know what you’re doing:

• Base Layer: Breathable, moisture-wicking. Not cotton. Never cotton.
• Mid Layer: Insulating but vented—merino wool or a lightweight fleece. Check out the Niner Flannel.
• Outer Layer: Windproof and water-resistant (not necessarily waterproof—because sweat).
• Extremities: Lobster gloves, bar mitts, merino socks, and a good skull cap. Toe covers or winter cycling boots if you like your toes unfrozen.

Pro tip: Start your ride a little chilly. If you're toasty before you even start pedaling, you’re overdressed.

3. Route Smarter, Not Harder

Your summer route might not cut it in winter. Snowbanks, ice patches, and early-morning black ice add new hazards. Here’s how to rethink your commute:

• Stick to plowed roads and paths.
• Low-traffic streets > high-speed roads. Cars take longer to stop on ice.
• Scout the conditions. A quick drive or ride the night before can save you from an unexpected snow drift disaster.

4. Ice, Snow, and Staying Upright: A Survival Guide

Riding on snow and ice is a skill. One that, if done wrong, can lead to a spectacular yard sale of limbs and bike parts.

• Relax your grip. White-knuckle death grips make steering worse.
• Brake gently. Hard braking = harder landing.
• Pick your line. Ride in packed snow or tire tracks.
• Consider studded tires if your winter is more Hoth than light dusting.

5. Carry Your Stuff Like a Pro (and Avoid a Swampy Back)

Backpacks are fine, but in winter, they turn into sweaty back furnaces. If you need to carry gear, go with:

• Frame bags: Low center of gravity for snow handling, no back sweat.
• Panniers: If your commute involves a lot of stuff (or snacks).
• Handlebar bags: Great for quick-access items like gloves, lights, or snacks.

Pro tip: Bring an extra pair of socks and shoes for when you get to work. Cold, damp feet are the worst way to start a workday.

6. The Arrival Ritual: Thaw Out & Avoid that Wet Calirado Bear Look

Once you roll up to your destination, but before you open up Teams:

• Layer down immediately. Otherwise, your post-ride sweat turns into an ice bath.
• Dry your gear. Hang up gloves, hats, and jackets so they’re not still wet on the ride home.
• Coffee. Always. Probably in large amounts.

If your workplace has a shower, use it. If not, body wipes and a fresh change of clothes go a long way toward not smelling like the Calirado Bear waking from his months-long nap.

7. The Mental Game: Why You’ll Actually Start Loving It

Winter commuting isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about the feeling of rolling up to work awake, alert, and knowing you just did something most people wouldn’t even attempt. It’s about owning the fact that while others are scraping their windshields, you’re already halfway to work.

And yeah, it’s a little bit about flexing. Because let’s be real—riding your bike through a blizzard? That’s badass.

So gear up, get out there, and show winter who’s boss.