With flurries expected again later this week, biking in the winter can pose challenges for commuters.
Although the city makes an effort to keep bike lanes clear, extra precautions are still needed if you plan on biking around the city during the winter months. Not only is the cold weather harsh on you it can be harsh on your ride as well.
“I think in terms of maintenance, I recommend doubling whatever maintenance schedule you have,” said Brent Robinson, a seasoned cyclist and employee of Sweet Pete’s Bicycle Shop.
“If you’re riding your bike all winter, you might want to get it tuned up before the winter and then after the winter as well,” Robinson said.
He also said having the proper attire is essential. “I’ve got a pretty beefy pair of gloves,” adding that “good waterproof clothing is pretty essential.”
Snow isn’t the only side-effect of winter weather, ice is also an important factor to consider when thinking about cycling in the colder months.
“If there are icy roads, I don’t ride,” said Erin Urquhart, a Toronto Police parking enforcement officer, in an email. “I have injured myself badly from riding on icy roads and black ice. Falling off my bike and tearing a ligament in my knee. It’s not worth it and I’d rather walk (for patrolling).”
Bikers must follow city bylaws related to cycling all year round, regardless of the weather. In Toronto, you could be fined for riding on the sidewalk, unless you are under the age of 14.
Urquhart says according to city bylaws, cyclists must have a front light and red rear light or reflector “when you are riding between a half-hour before sunset and a half-hour after sunrise.”
Robinson said since it gets dark so early and stays dark so late, “I also really recommend a very good quality set of USB rechargeable lights.”
Ultimately, he says, everyone should take different aspects of their safety into account before going for a ride.
“If the roads are unsafe to ride, personally to me the safest option is to not ride, and find a different method of transportation.“ Urquhart said.