Winter Mountain Bike Rides

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This is for the hardcore enthusiast only. This is for riders that simply will not let weather interrupt their ride life. The winter ride offers you experiences that the soft fair weather only rider will never see. Some of the most sublime mountain biking experiences come with a cost. Braving the elements is not only worth it, but it is part of it all.

The Crunch
There is nothing like riding on hard packed snow on the trail as you feel and hear the crunch under your wheels. Sometimes snowy trails can even provide better grip than dirt. Usually though you have some slippage, but that just makes it more fun as you see your riding buddy’s tire kick snow up into the air. The sight of fresh tire tracks in the snow is unbeatable. While you slip and slide around you feel like a kid in a winter wonderland.

But it’s Cold!
Well, as far as coldness goes, it depends. Sometimes you get lucky, and the weather is mild. The cold bits are usually face, fingers and toes. Face guards or a neck warmer can be used. Usually if you are pedaling hard though, you won’t be too cold here. I’ve heard of Iditarod extreme riders using duct tape to break the cold against the nose. Good ski type gloves are useful. Again, if you are riding hard you might find heavy gloves too hot though. Cold toes can be solved with shoe covers. These neoprene covers can keep your feet very warm, but they are kind of clunky. Here’s my secret technique. Use layers of duct tape just on the toes. This allows your foot to stay free but protects the toes from frostbite.As far as clothing the best idea is to dress in layers. That way you can strip down if it gets too hot. A good lightweight jacket or shell can keep the cold out and not hinder your movement too much.

Riding Ice
Ride enough in the winter and you will find ice. A frozen puddle hidden on a snow covered trail can bring you down very fast. If you see a patch of ice stop pedaling and glide over it as upright as possible. You cannot corner on ice, and if the ice patch is large you better have tightrope walking skills to get across on two wheels.

Gear Problems
Here’s another winter riding challenge. You reach for a bigger gear and nothing. Your shifting system is frozen, or maybe your breaks freeze up. Be prepared for anything and remember ice covered brake pads and rims mean braking time and distances are increased.

Summary
Winter bike riding is one of the most unique mountain biking experiences out there. If you have the right gear and use the right techniques you will add a new dimension to your rides and not go crazy cooped up all winter. Get out and ride no matter what the weather.


RESOURCE BOX
The author has been riding in all types of weather for years. He knows that finance on bikes is a great way to get a bike that you can ride in the winter – or even in the summer, spring or autumn.