The best weather for winter cycling is sunny with light frost. In freezing conditions, the trails are firm and generally easy to ride. Later in spring, the warmth of the sun softens the trail surface, especially by the afternoon. This significantly slows progress and leaves deep ruts in the soft trail. If the trail is soft, it’s better to let it harden and return another time in better conditions.
After snowfall or during windy weather, maintained trails can quickly become covered, making cycling heavy and challenging. When planning a winter cycling trip, check the weather forecast and trail maintenance updates if available. This information is often shared on the area’s website or social media channels.
In cold weather, your hands, toes, and face are prone to freezing in the wind. Keep in mind that e-bike batteries perform significantly worse in freezing temperatures and may even fail entirely at -15°C. In extreme cold, a regular, non-electric fat-tire mountain bike is a more reliable option.
The Right Gear for Winter Cycling
Winter cycling is enjoyable when you dress in suitable layers for the weather. Winter shoes, warm socks, and mittens are essential, as the wind chill can be biting. Bring extra clothing and a thermos of warm drinks for breaks.
With a bike, you can cover winter trails quickly—distances that might take hours to walk. Always pack bike repair tools, a first-aid kit, and enough clothing to keep warm during stops.
On shared-use trails, you may encounter walkers, dog walkers, or skiers. Be considerate and give space to others. As the faster traveler, cyclists should yield to other trail users.
