Winter on two wheels
Now that the leaves are starting to turn and there’s a noticeable chill in the air, most Regina cyclists are starting to think about when to put their bikes away.
But a growing number are deciding to stay on two wheels all winter, and a workshop at the University of Regina on Thursday offered tips for those who want to give it a try.
Andrea Nelson is one of the hardy folk who cycle year-round.
A grin on her face and a gleam in her eye, she explained winter riding as a “playful” way to commute.
“It’s so much fun,” she said.
“People look at you like you’re crazy, but I think it’s crazy to sit in a cold car, waiting for it to warm up.” Her biggest tip? “As it starts getting colder, don’t stop riding,” she said.
For Western Cycle service manager Bert Seidel, it’s all about lights, studded winter tires and, of course, paying attention to the weather.
“People think it’s really hard because it’s so cold here, but if you wear the appropriate clothing, once you get moving you’re generating your own heat,” he said.
Then there are the health benefits.
“We all get a few extra pounds in winter, and you still get that, but it’s muscle,” he laughed.
“In winter we spend a lot of time inside, but if you’re cycling you’re out in the elements and it’s exhilarating. It’s a mood booster and you keep fit.”
Seidel is so convinced about the benefits of biking, he has even started a Bike Jar for him and his colleagues (it’s like a swear jar, but you throw money in when you don’t cycle to work).
David Vanderberg was also on-hand at Thursday’s event to answer questions about his winter biking experiences.
The education student started pedalling to campus a few years ago to avoid the expense — and hassle — of parking.
“I had winter biked in Montreal, so I thought I would try it here too and honestly, it’s quicker to take my bike than to drive here,” he said. His big tip? Dress in layers and “be prepared and have tools to repair” a flat.
“It’s no fun having to push a bike with a flat tire three kilometres in the middle of winter,” he said.
As for difficulties with cars and traffic, Vanderburg said he finds more resistance from drivers in fall and summer.
“In winter they’re thinking, ‘That poor guy, on a bike in the middle of winter,’” he said with a laugh.
“But it’s about being visible and being confident in your lane.”