3 Tips For Riding Your Bike In The Winter In The Pacific Northwest
If you enjoy cycling, one of the most beautiful places in the United States to hit the road is in the Pacific Northwest. Throughout the Portland area, there are numerous individuals who commute and lots of bike-friendly paths in the area. However, when you are cycling in the winter in the Pacific Northwest, you are most likely going to have to combat wet and cold riding conditions. Here are three tips for riding your bike while visiting the beautiful and wet Pacific Northwest.
#1 Put On Winter Tires
You need to put on winter tires when riding in the rain. Your summer tires will not cut it when dealing with numerous puddles and wet conditions. Upgrade to a larger, wide tire for winter riding. This will give you some additional traction as you navigate the wet roads.
You are also going to need to drop your tire pressure from the rates that you had it at during the summer time. Air expands more in the winter, which is why you want to use a lower tire pressure rating.
#2 Bring Some Water
It is easy to assume that you don't need to drink as much while you are riding because it is cold outside. However, just because it is cold outside does not mean that your body doesn't need water. You are exerting a lot of energy, and you need to stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle with you so that you can stay hydrated. You may want to consider using a small backpack that has water in it if you want easy access to the water.
You may also want to pack a power bar or some fruit with you as well so that you have something to eat should you get hungry or need an energy boost while you are out on the road. It is easy to bike for miles in the Pacific Northwest, so be sure that you have the proper tools to stay hydrated and energized while riding.
#3 Install Fenders
Third, you may want to install fenders on your bike. Fender are essential if you want to race during the winter time. You'll want to put full-length fenders on your bike. Full-length fenders will protect you from the spray up from all the water on the ground. Without full-length fenders on your bike, you are going to end up soaking wet, even if it is just wet outside but not raining. This is an essential update to your bike if you want to do some cycling in the Pacific Northwest and enjoy your experience at the same time.
Although the Pacific Northwest can be really wet during the winter time, it can still be a fun to ride if you change out your tires, install fenders, and make sure to bring the proper sustenance along with you on your ride.
