As summer fades and the days grow colder and shorter, roads and trails become rougher on your bike’s components. How can you prepare your bike for the challenges of autumn and winter riding? Follow our guide for tips on keeping your bike in top shape so you can enjoy cycling year-round.
1. Fit Mudguards
Mudguards are essential for staying comfortable on winter rides. While they may not always be considered "cool," they do a fantastic job of keeping you and your bike cleaner and drier. By preventing mud and debris from reaching your bike’s components, mudguards also extend the lifespan of your bike—what’s not to like?
Many cycling clubs require mudguards during winter rides, and without them, you might find yourself stuck at the back of the pack, dealing with the spray from other riders. Full-length mudguards are the best option for both your comfort and the benefit of your fellow cyclists.
Above Image: The Hybrid ALe Trail is an ultra-versatile electric hybrid for urban environments and comes equipped with mudguards and integrated lights.
2. Light the Way
As daylight hours shorten, it’s essential to have a set of lights on your bike—even if you don’t plan on riding in the dark. A reliable set of lights ensures you’re visible to others and helps you navigate poorly lit roads or trails.
For commuting or city riding, lights that help you “be seen” might be enough. But if you’re riding on darker, rural roads, opt for a high-powered front light with at least 800 lumens. Always carry a backup set of lights—just in case your main set fails or you forget to charge them (more likely).
Above Image: The Urban AL e showcases the fully integrated head and tail lights that announce your presence night or day.
3. Swap to Puncture-Resistant Tyres
Wet leaves, drain covers, and debris on the road make autumn and winter cycling trickier, increasing the risk of punctures. To avoid being stranded with a flat tyre on a cold, dark evening, consider switching to wider, puncture-resistant tyres.
Wider tyres provide extra grip and protection, making them a great investment for winter riding. For even more security, go tubeless. Tubeless tyres, paired with sealant, can self-repair small punctures, keeping you rolling without hassle.
Above Image: Schwalbe Marathon tyres (like those pictured on this CGR AL) have established a reputation for being exceptionally puncture-resistant and highly visible, thanks to their reflective sidewalls.
4. Bigger is Better: Consider Wider Tyres
If you're thinking about switching to wider tyres, make sure your bike can accommodate them. Wider tyres add grip and comfort but be cautious—adding mudguards can reduce tyre clearance.
For specific guidance on what the tyre clearance is across our range, check the FAQ section of your bike’s page or contact us.
Above Image: Large-volume tyres like those featured on this CGR SL add comfort as well as enhanced grip on slick surfaces.
5. Keep it Clean
Winter weather and road grime can quickly wear down your bike’s working parts. Regular maintenance is key. After every wet ride, give your bike a quick rinse, wash it with soapy water, and apply lubricant to the chain once it’s dry.
Top Tip: Always ensure your chain is dry before applying lube to avoid water trapping dirt inside.
Above Image: Bike cleaners are a great way to clean your bike with little mess. Simply spray onto a frame like the Endurance SL R Disc pictured here, leave for 30 seconds and wipe off.
6. Smooth is Best: Chain and Drivetrain Care
Your drivetrain takes the brunt of winter riding, especially with rain, road salt, and grime clogging up the works. Clean and lubricate your chain more frequently to ensure smooth shifting. Use a chain cleaner and opt for a high-quality wet lube that withstands wet conditions.
Top Tip: While wet lubes offer great protection, they attract dirt faster than dry lubes, so regular cleaning is essential.
7. Take Care of Your Cables
Water and dirt can creep into your cables during wet rides, affecting your ability to shift and brake. A quick lubricant spray on your cables will help them stay smooth and responsive throughout the winter months.
Keep Riding, Stay Smiling
We hope this guide motivates you to keep cycling through the colder months. After all, winter miles equal summer smiles! Have a winter cycling tip of your own? Share it in the comments below and help your fellow cyclists make the most of the season.
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The Allroad Ti may be the ultimate N+1 or winter training bike, blending exceptional resilience with a corrosion-resistant finish and mudguard compatibility. Check out our latest blog to discover the cutting-edge technology that goes into crafting the world's most aerodynamic titanium bike.
