Tips for going out with your mountain bike on snow days
Tips for going out with your mountain bike on snow days
Bicycle and snow are two concepts that for many cyclists do not marry. In winter the cold, the wind and the rain are ingredients that often invite us to stay at home instead of dating the bicycle. But snow is the definitive enemy. The fear of skating, slippers and dangers in the form of charts, roots and obstacles that are hidden under the white mantle make us jump the alarms so as not to go out with the mountain bike.
However, if you are one of those who prefer not to stay at home and go shoot, here are some tips to avoid unnecessary accidents and scares. Do not forget that mountain bicycles are not designed to roll at full speed by snow, so you should take some precautions ..
Tip 1: Invest in the right team
Having the appropriate and specifically indicated equipment for snow is essential for a successful and safe experience of mountain cycling in the snow. If you want to go to the safe try to get a fat-bike. They are those huge wheel bicycles that became fashionable a few years ago. The reality is that they are very funny when the snow makes an appearance, since they provide a traction that cannot give you a conventional mountain bike.
You can also do some Upgrades to your bicycle with wider tires and with a bigger ball. And, of course, do not forget the essential accessories so as not to pass thermal hardships: gloves, long culotte, specific winter boots (or covers) and specific clothing to practice cycling in winter.
Here are some tips:
Let's talk clearly: Bicycle when the mount is snowy is dangerous. Very dangerous. Not all paths and routes are suitable to travel in winter, and even less if there is a layer of snow no matter how small. Plan the route, find out before the time of time and look for trails in good condition, with a hard surface and offer adequate traction. Faced with the doubt, stay at home.
Tip 3: Adapt your driving style
Rolling through the snow is very different from doing it by a dry path. You will have to be prepared to go at a slower pace and you may have to adopt a more relaxed and upright posture to maintain balance. Get ready for more slippery conditions and do not be afraid to use your feet to stabilize if necessary.
Tip 4: Respect the weather conditions
Let's continue talking clearly: when it comes to a fight against weather increases we have all to lose. Snow and ice are very unpredictable elements. Therefore it is important to be prudent and avoid unnecessary risks. If the conditions are uncertain or if you feel uncomfortable, it is best to turn around and look for a safer path or return home. If you see that the bicycle skates excessively and it is difficult for you to control it, get off and go back. It is always better to lose a home training day than not to go out again in 3 months as a result of a fall produced by ice and snow.
