Get The Winter Gear

With the arrival of winter just around the corner, you’ve already done what you need to do to ensure that you’re going to continue riding safely, in comfort and in full knowledge that your bike isn’t going to let you down … haven’t you? If not … why not? If it’s a case of ‘need the gear but no idea’, we’re here to help and there’s just about time to do something about it before the clocks go forward and winter really begins to bite.

Winter warmers. No-one likes getting cold and there’s no need to these days with the extensive range of winter gear that’s available to combat the very worst the typical British winter is likely to throw at you. A good base layer made of Merino wool is an excellent way to start with several thin layers (rather than one thick one) on top of that according to how cold it is. If it’s wet, then a breathable waterproof helps keep warm … if nothing else. Warm and wet is fine! Cold and dry is too … only to a certain degree of course. Cold and wet is a big NO though. So be prepared and dress accordingly. Anywhere between 30 and 50% of heat loss is through the head (some sources even quote up to 80% … so this is quite important!) so make sure you wear something suitable under your crash hat to keep your head warm. Gloves and overshoes are a must, as it’s the extremities that are likely to feel the cold first.

You’ve now got no excuse for not going out on your bike … unless, of course, you don’t like the dark.

Be seen – be safe! We’ve moved on you know? We’re now out of the Dark Age and into the new wondrous World of mega-watts, loads of lumens and batteries that don’t need changing for weeks. You can now actually see where you’re going as well as being seen and it doesn’t cost a packet either. Lots of lovely lights HERE.

Photo courtesy Bernard Thompson's Cycling Archive

Winter frames / bikes. On the understanding that you don’t want to get your Exocet, Nanolight or SL Pro either wet or dirty (understandably so) a ‘proper’ winter bike probably wouldn’t go amiss? Basing a bike around a frame specifically designed to cope with the elements is the ideal solution. You’ll need something that’s strong, reliable and able to accommodate mudguards and racks (maybe?) with clearances suitable for wider and more reliable tyres.

We’ve found the Kaffenback and Uncle John fit the bill superbly. However, if you don’t go out in the wet and don’t ‘believe’ in mudguards, the Team Alu might be your preferred choice? For those of you who like getting dirty and want a bike that allows you to mix it with your Cyclo-Cross buddies as well use for the daily commute, then the Uncle John is the boy for you.

Single speed or ‘fixed’ bikes. These are gaining increasing popularity and during the winter months especially can provide an excellent way of keeping fit without all the problems associated with geared bikes (let’s face it, there’s more to go wrong on them and so much more to maintain, keep clean etc). Planet X’s Pompino is legendary in the ‘fixed’ fraternity and the Macinato, the newest addition to the range, is already proving to be very popular. We’ve got bikes based on both models here.

Winter wheels. So you’re now dressed and lit up like a Christmas tree (yes … it’s nearly here!) all you need now is some help with your choice of wheels and tyres. Don’t underestimate the effect 3 or 4 months of salted roads, pot-holes, grit and millions of miles training can have on your wheels and tyres - make sure you get something strong and reliable. Of course we’d highly recommend Planet X’s range of winter wheels which include the ‘bullet-proof’ A57s (on special offer at £99.99 NOW if you’re quick) and the classic Model Cs. Although one of our team riders is about to embark on his third winter using the same set of Model Bs, they probably aren’t the ideal choice for what the harshest of British winters can come up with … but at least it demonstrates just how good they are!

5 October 2011