Cycle into winter
this year
Make the most of Calgary weather
and pedal year round
BY KERRI BUHL
WITH FALL QUICKLY dwindling, people start
retreating to the gym to hibernate on treadmills and
stationary bikes. This year, why not cycle into winter
and enjoy the invigorating and stimulating effects of
winter cycling?
The first thing you need to do is map/ to avoid rust, breakages and winter wear parts. It is also wise to pack an emergency
plan your route. The best way is to take a and tear on their summer bikes. Keep your kit including spare chain links, lock de-icer,
leisurely cycle along the route to determine bike simple. Those without suspension extra lube, a bike multi-tool, spare tube,
alternate routes, hazards, construction, etc. are preferable because salt isn’t good for patch kit and tire pump.
Dressing properly for Calgary’s variable suspension systems. Choose fat mountain- Think ahead about the available facilities
weather is extremely important when bike tires over skinny ones for better traction at your destination. Can you store your bike
exercising during winter. Layering your and think about purchasing studded tires. If inside? Are there bike cages available? Is
clothing is vital to keep you warm and you choose just one studded tire, use it in the space heated? Are there showers or
protected from the elements, while at the the front. Internal gear hubs are better than lockers available?
same time avoiding overheating, cooling off
and subsequently freezing. Layering allows Winter cycling is a great alternative to an indoor workout. It’s a
you to remove pieces of clothing as needed.
chance to face winter and enjoy Calgary from a different perspective.
Ventilation is also key and can be achieved
with pit and front zips as heat regulators. external gear hubs because salt, dirt and Winter cycling is a great alternative to
Just make sure your hands, feet and face grime wreak havoc with external ones. an indoor workout. It’s a chance to face
are sufficiently covered and kept warm It’s also good practice to store your gear winter and enjoy Calgary from a different
to avoid frostbite. Ankles and wrists are and accessories on your bike, not your perspective. Biking enthusiasts may even
“leak points” believe it or not, so protect back. Backpacks restrict air movement want to consider participating in a winter
them properly from the elements. A good and cause excess sweating. Bike panniers cycling workshop to make the most of this
practice is to start your trip (the first seven are a great alternative and can be installed great sport. Check out the City of Calgary
to 10 minutes) feeling a little cool. You’ll behind the seat or on either side of the back website at www.calgary.ca for some
warm up in no time. tires. Again, purchase them used for winter options.
Once you’re all layered up you can weather conditions. Go on; don’t let winter dictate your workout
concentrate on your equipment. Many Lube and clean your bike regularly to schedule. Kick it old school and try cycling
winter cyclists buy second-hand bikes avoid rust, salt, dirt build-up and seizing year round.
«CO
www.CalgaryOutdoors.ca CALGARY >> WINTER 2008/2009 23
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