Winter Cycling Tips from the commuters in Fairbanks, Alaska

Winter Cycling Tips from the commuters in Fairbanks, Alaska
http://www.fairbankscycleclub.org/Winter/

With snow piled high from the blizzard last weekend, it is important to remember that visibility is terrible right now. Assume motorists cannot see you. And keep in mind that ice often lurks under slush.

On the up side, winter is a great time to bike. A good pair of gloves and a facemask keeps your extremities warm and you don't have to worry about sweating.  Morning frost often thaws by the afternoon and you get an especially fresh ride. When you get inside you can curl up with the cat or a hot coca and feel really great.

I have commuted in lots of different weather. From a personal side, I usually walked across intersections unless I could clearly see the pavement. I have seen more than one biker slide across an intersection with their bike still between their legs but laid completely down.

Recently I read about stubbed tires. I actually hadn't heard of them but  here is a link: http://www.peterwhitecycles.com/studdedtires.asp
And another one about making them yourself: http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?369227-Studded-Tires-Make-your-own-in-7-easy-steps

These are both from the Fairbanks site by the way: http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?369227-Studded-Tires-Make-your-own-in-7-easy-steps

Oh! One last thing, in the winter, it is especially important to wear a properly fitting helmet. I know that it isn't against the law to go without but be smart and be safe.