Winter commuting by bike doesn’t have to be a cold, wet slog. With fuel prices rising and more riders choosing two wheels over four, a few smart adjustments can transform your winter ride from a chore into something you actually look forward to. Here are five simple ways to make your winter commute warmer, drier, and far more enjoyable.
1. Choose the Driest Route
When the winter weather sets in, the route you take matters just as much as the gear you wear. Even if a slightly longer route seems inconvenient, avoiding busy roads can pay off in comfort. Less traffic means less time stuck still in the rain and far less road spray hitting you from passing vehicles.
Riding quieter streets also increases your safety—and keeps your bike cleaner. Winter road grime can wear down components quickly, which is why many seasoned commuters opt for a single-speed setup in the colder months. Fewer moving parts mean less maintenance and fewer headaches. And of course, arriving at work warm and dry is the best motivation to get back in the saddle the next day.
2. Layer Up Smartly
Winter riding is all about staying warm without overheating. A quality base layer is a must—its moisture-wicking properties help regulate body temperature and keep your skin dry whether it’s mid-summer or mid-winter. For cold-weather commutes, add an insulated long-sleeve jersey or a windproof outer layer to block chilly gusts.
Hands and feet feel the cold fastest, so invest in windproof gloves and thermal bib tights. But the real game-changer? A good pair of overshoes. Fleece-lined or waterproof overshoes keep your toes warm and your feet dry, even when the puddles are deeper than they look. Warm extremities equal a much more enjoyable ride.
3. Fit Mudguards
If there’s one winter cycling upgrade that delivers instant comfort, it’s mudguards. Even a minimal front guard prevents grit and dirty spray from hitting your face, while full-length mudguards offer the best overall protection. Brands like SKS make durable, easy-to-fit options that keep both you and your bike clean.
While mountain bikers sometimes avoid rear mudguards for performance reasons, commuters shouldn’t hesitate—mudguards dramatically reduce the amount of water soaking into your clothing. A dry chamois is a happy chamois!
4. Plan Ahead
Winter mornings are hard enough without scrambling to find gloves, pack lunch, or discover your lights are dead. Spend five minutes the night before laying out your kit, prepping your bag, and placing essentials—keys, wallet, phone—by the door.
It’s also a great time to do a quick “M-check” on your bike: tyres, brakes, wheels, chain, and cockpit. Come morning, you’ll gain a few extra minutes in bed and step out the door stress-free. Preparing ahead transforms your commute into a smooth, calm start to the day.
5. Optimise Your Bike Setup
Cold, wet roads demand more traction. Reducing your tyre pressure slightly increases the contact patch and gives you better grip on slippery surfaces. It also makes for a more comfortable ride—remember, commuting isn’t a race.
Winter is also a good time to check your brake pads, cables, and chain more frequently, as wet conditions accelerate wear. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your bike running smoothly through the season.
Winter commuting can be surprisingly enjoyable with the right approach. A few smart choices—better layers, smarter routes, and a well-prepared bike—turn cold mornings into refreshing, energising rides. Stay warm, stay dry, and enjoy the journey. 🚴♂️❄️
