Winter cycling. It’s not for the faint of heart. But if you’re brave enough to face the icy winds and treacherous terrain, then get ready for an adventure like no other.

I’ll admit, I like the cold about as much as I’d like to be an extra in a low budget Ice Age movie. Look fam! There I am. Pedaling hard, but the only thing moving fast is my teeth chattering.

I absolutely LOVE biking! And honestly, I’ve gone on quite a few rides during the winter. It is undoubtedly a blast unlike no other. The bulky layers make me look like a marshmallow on wheels, and those frozen snot icicles! An irresistible dude on a bike. Turning heads. Oh! It’s not my fabulous self they’re looking at? I couldn’t see through my frozen eyeballs and frostbitten cheeks that they’re laughing at me.

So, if you’re stupid strange like me, let’s talk about a few reasons you will either want to stop Winter Cycling, or fall in love with it as I have.

First: The Icicle Beard Struggle

Picture this: you’re pedaling through the winter wonderland, feeling the chill in the air and the crunch of snow beneath your tires. As you ride, you notice something peculiar happening to your facial hair. It starts to freeze. Yes, my friend, you are now the proud owner of an icicle beard.

Fortunately for some, well for me, growing facial hair isn’t a thing. So if you fall into that category too, you have nothing to fear. Instead, you’ll enjoy the snot running out of your nose and freezing to your lips and cheeks.

Embrace these majestic transformations! Let those icicles and snot-cicles grow and measure their growth with pride. Who needs a ruler when you have nature’s frosty artwork adorning your face? Just make sure to avoid licking your lips, unless you want to experience the painful consequences of a tongue stuck to an icicle. Ouch!

Second: Snow Angels or Bike Tire Tracks – My Winter Cycling Commute turned to Modern Art

Who says winter cycling can’t be artistic? Instead of grumbling about the snow-covered streets, turn your commute into a masterpiece. Strategically navigate the snowy terrain and leave behind a trail of bike tire tracks that would make Jackson Pollock proud.

Imagine the joy of seeing your tire tracks crisscrossing the pristine white canvas of snow. It’s like creating art with every pedal stroke. So go ahead, embrace your inner artist and transform your daily commute into a winter wonderland art installation. Just make sure to watch out for pedestrians who might mistake your tire tracks for snow angels! Oh, and here in Nebraska, the ice.

A handful of sun cycles back, yours truly was on the daily grind to the workplace on ‘ol Felix when – bam! – a sneaky ice patch appeared. Out of nowhere, my back wheel decided to take a detour, while my front wheel and handlebars had their own separate meetings. My feet bailed from the pedals, and my body started doing some sort of impromptu yoga routine. But guess what? I didn’t faceplant! After what seemed like an eternity (or at least a mile), everything got its act together and I just kept on trucking down that bike path.

Third Up: Those Frozen Water Bottle Woes

Staying hydrated during winter cycling is crucial, but it comes with its own set of challenges. One of them being the delicate art of sipping hot beverages without turning your water bottle into a popsicle.

One frosty year, during a cycling adventure, I had a quick lesson in the importance of a well-insulated water bottle. It wasn’t like I was pedaling through a sweltering, humid cornfield at 110 degrees, but let me tell you, an 18-degree day can still make you parched. And guess what? My water was frozen solid.

Then, like a light bulb flickering on, I had this brilliant idea. What if I brought along a hot drink in a nice insulated water bottle? Sounds great, right? Well, imagine trying to sip a piping hot beverage while biking. Here’s a tip for you, friend: You’re definitely going to want to hit the brakes, catch your breath, and take a moment to chill before you even think about sipping that steaming hot cocoa.

Number Four and My Favorite: The Snowbank Shortcut Challenge

Winter cycling isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about embracing the challenges along the way. And what better challenge than mastering the art of navigating snowbanks? My icy yoga lesson I spoke about earlier was all preparation. These towering mounds of snow may seem intimidating, but with the right technique, you can conquer them like a pro. At my first attempt at such a feat didn’t fair well. My bike stuck on one snow bank, while I was stuck in another.

Don’t worry… I made it out alive!

Here is what I learned. Approach the snowbank with confidence, shift your weight back, and pedal with determination. Feel the rush as you power through the fluffy white obstacle, leaving a trail of snow in your wake. Before I forget, don’t take your grandpas old Schwinn Varsity on this adventure. Get the right bike and go ahead, take that snowbank shortcut and show winter who’s boss!

In conclusion, winter cycling is not for the faint of heart, but with a smile and a sense of humor, it can become an exhilarating adventure. Embrace the frosty challenges, whether it’s growing an icicle beard, turning your commute into a work of art, sipping hot beverages with grace, or conquering snowbanks like a champion.

So bundle up, hop on your bike, and let the world see your winter cycling prowess. Remember, it’s not just about reaching your destination; it’s about enjoying the journey, even if it involves a few snowdrifts and icy challenges. Happy winter cycling! ❄️🚴‍♂️ #WinterBiking #SnowCommuteFun