Gearing up for the Winter Mountain Bike Season

As the cooler temperatures arrive, many of riders go on hiatus till the spring returns. I prefer to ride all season. The trails take on new dimensions for each of the seasons. I think now is probably a good time discuss the importance of having the right equipment for the winter season of riding.

It is important to dress in layers as the temperatures goes down below the 50-degree mark, our bodies start having a hard time maintaining its core temperature. This is not the case for everyone, but for many. Most of us feel fine, till we stop for a moment and, then our wet clothing starts to absorb our body heat. At 45 and 50-degrees, it's a big deal to recover the lost heat by riding. At temperatures less then 45, it can become a big deal quick. Layers of quality riding clothing that advertise the ability to wick moisture away from the inner layers. In temperatures of 30 to 35-degress head warmers that fit under your helmet and thermal gloves are a requirement, if you're going to be out on the trail for an hour or more. It is also a good idea to bring a couple of sheets of newspaper in your pack. If your chest or legs start to get cold, slip a sheet between two layers. The paper will act as a windbreaker. For temperatures even lower, consider a full-face ski mask, it will help to warm the air you inhale and the heated air you exhale will warm your face. Don't forget to bring water in a thermal pack, because riding in the cold requires more energy than warm weather riding. I'd advise you to have a change of clothing back at the car, you will want to strip off your wet clothing as soon as possible.

Here are some other things you may want to consider. In the winter months, there is the added consideration of early sunsets making night riding gear a requirement, for trips that may not end on time. Also consider carrying a mini-flash light on the trips. If you break down in the dark you'll be glad you have it. Riding lights have a very short battery life. You don't want to waste your only source of trail light to work on a flat or fixing a chain. If you use a "CamelBak" like pack, place your snack bars in the inner most compartment to keep them from freezing. If you think Powerbars are hard and chewy, try tearing in to one that's frozen.

Go To Page: 1 2

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic