All Weather Cycling

Riding Tactics

• Slow down. The roads may be slippery, so expect to take longer to reach your destination, and plan that time into your commute. It also takes more time to put on all of your gear, so give yourself a few extra minutes to get ready.
• Don’t hesitate to dismount. If you’re worried about falling, or think an area is too dangerous to ride over—walk. You can keep one hand on the brake lever and use your bike for stability until you navigate to safer ground.
• Be aware of your surroundings and the road or sidewalk conditions. Watch for black ice or puddles, and note that wet leaves and painted lines on the street are going to be slicker than clear pavement.
• Take turns wider and stay upright around corners. Your wheels may slip out from underneath you if you lean too hard.
• Ride on clear pavement when available. Don’t be afraid to take the lane if there is snow in the bike lanes or on the sidewalks.
• Anticipate stops ahead of time. If the road is slick or your brakes are wet, it will take longer to stop.
• Ride defensively.  Make eye contact with drivers limit sudden movements, and always signal your intent, considering that drivers may have low visibility.
• Don’t ride through puddles if you can’t see how deep they are or what’s hiding under the water.
• Roll with the fall. If you must take an unanticipated fall, don't fight it. Try to tuck and roll!

Clothing

• Bundle up! Your extremities are the most susceptible to cold. However, overdressing can cause problems just like underdressing, so choose your layers wisely. A weatherproof outer shell, as opposed to long underwear, can be easily removed once you reach your destination.
• Hands: Keeping your hands warm is key, so choose layers that are both water- and wind-proof. A combination of wind-proof over-mittens and lightweight gloves provide warmth and allow you to operate your lock and keys.
• Head: Many options are available for keeping your ears warm while still being able to wear a helmet. Some helmets even have integrated ear muffs. Wearing a balaclava (face mask) is a great option to keep your neck, ears, and nose warm.
• Feet: Wool socks or thick synthetics designed for wicking moisture, and water-resistant shoes or boots will keep your feet warm and dry. You can also buy shoe covers that slip on and off to help protect your footwear that isn't meant for all weather.
• Legs: Your legs are going to be doing most of the work, so they are the last area you want to layer up. On the coldest days, thin synthetic or silk long underwear under your pants and/or weatherproof over your pants will do the trick. Rain pants will be crucial in wet weather.

Alternatives

Not every day will be a cycling day for everyone. For those days when biking isn’t the best fit for you, here are some of your other transportation options:​

• Campus Buses & Shuttles
• Free City Transit - this program allows UK students and employees to ride any Lextran route, free of charge.
• Single Day Permits - single-use, one-day permits designed for students and employees who drive to campus infrequently.