Cold or Wet Weather Cycling
Whether it's January or June – rain, snow or shine – cycling can be both a fun and practical way to get where you're going. Read up on the tips and tricks to better prepare for cycling in all weather conditions.
Benefits of Cycling All Year
Once you are able to cycle confidently and safely year-round, you'll begin to notice the many benefits of commuting to work by bike in colder or wetter weather. At any time of year, there are numerous benefits to be gained by using your bicycle as a mode of transportation. These include:
- Physical activity and fitness - Physically fit people are much less likely to develop heart disease, hypertension, cancer or diabetes.
- Pollution prevention - If all commuters living less than 16-kilometres from their work place biked to work an average of three times per week, it could save between 16 and 23 million barrels of oil each year. (Floyd 1974)
- Saving on transportation costs - It costs the average Canadian $1.25/kilometre to operate a car (CAA Driving Costs 2007). Cycling is free, and best of all it fuels good health!
During the colder months, cycling provides even more advantages:
- Increased time spent outdoors means more fresh air and sunlight.
- Increased opportunity for exercise, especially necessary after the holidays.
- Increased cost savings from leaving your car at home.
