Bicycling is a convenient, stress-relieving main mode of transportation that provides significant benefits over driving year-round. It saves money on fuel and insurance costs while providing effective exercise, burning 450 calories per hour compared to 110 for driving. Winter cycling is safe and pleasant for those who dress properly for the weather, and it can save the cost of monthly bus or parking fees. With proper winterization of the bike and clothing layers, cycling can be enjoyed throughout the winter.

2.  Convenient
 Main mode of transportation
 Quick
 Stress relieving exercise

3. WHY?
Other Year-Round Benefits:
Save money on fuel costs and insurance
Great Exercise
Driving Bicycling
Fuel Consumption 11.0 L/100 km 0 L/100 km
Fuel Cost $1032 / year $ 0 / year
Emissions 4427 kg CO2 /year 0 kg CO2 /year
Calories Burned 110 kCal/hour 450 kCal/hour
Parking Costs $972/year $0/year

4. WHERE?
Anywhere!
First-hand accounts:
“Winter cyclists are warm. They do not curse the cold because they dress for it
and are active in it. Contrary to what many people think, winter cycling is
safe…Winter cycling can save you the cost of a monthly bus pass.”
- Kevin Miller (Winter Cycling Since ’93, Winnipeg)
“We do this for many reasons but for me, it
is about getting to where I need to be and
most of the time cycling here in the winter is
actually quite pleasant and dare I say, FUN !”
- Raving Bike Fiend (Bike Blogger from
Edmonton)

5. HOW?
Winterize your bike
 Aluminum frame better than steel for
rust resistance
 Rust resistant aerosol lubricant
 Replace chain seasonally as appropriate
 Carry lock de-icer and a lighter

6. …and continue winterizing
 Tires
Wide tread, drop pressure, studded (for severe weather) or
knobby (milder weather)
Studs
 Brake pads
Curved
 Fenders
Not too close
 Lighting
LED - 1 front, 2 back

7. HOW?
Riding Tips
 Avoid immediate curb area
 Busy streets if comfortable
 Keep body relaxed
 Be alert
 Be aware of black ice
 Reduce speed and use low gear
What bike lane?...

8. BUNDLE UP
Clothing & Footwear
 Bright colours
 Layers
 Hat or headband under helmet
 Windproof gloves with good grip
 Winter/hiking boots or neoprene booties
Lobster claw design
 Avoid cotton

9. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
 Bike maintenance
 Store your warm-weather bike
 Costly, but worth it!
 Check road conditions and allow ample time
Summer
Winter

10. RESOURCES
 REI.com Recreational Equipment Inc.
 MEC.ca Mountain Equipment Co-op
 Greenlivingonline.com Greenliving
 Allweathersports.com All Weather Sports