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Guelph Community for Active Transportation (GCAT)

Winter Cycling in Guelph

Winter cycling in Guelph is not only possible but enjoyable with the right preparation. Many residents cycle year-round, finding that cold weather riding becomes comfortable with proper gear and technique.

Preparing Your Bike

Tires
Wider tires with good tread provide better traction on snow and ice. Some cyclists switch to studded tires for icy conditions, particularly useful on multi-use paths that may not be cleared as quickly as roads.

Fenders
Full fenders front and rear keep road spray and slush off you and your bike. They make a significant difference in staying dry and comfortable.

Lights
Winter’s shorter days mean you’ll likely ride in darkness more often. Ensure your lights are bright and fully charged, and consider adding reflective tape to your bike and clothing.

Lubrication
Salt and moisture accelerate wear on your drivetrain. Clean and lubricate your chain more frequently in winter, and consider using a wet-style lubricant designed for harsh conditions.

Dressing for Cold Weather

Layer System
Dress in layers you can adjust as you warm up. A typical setup includes:

  • Base layer: moisture-wicking material to keep sweat away from skin
  • Mid layer: insulating fleece or wool
  • Outer layer: wind and water-resistant shell

Extremities
Your hands, feet, and head lose heat quickly. Invest in quality winter cycling gloves, insulated shoe covers or winter boots, and a balaclava or headband that fits under your helmet.

Avoid Overdressing
You’ll warm up once you start riding. Dress so you feel slightly cool when you first step outside.

Riding Technique

Slow Down
Give yourself extra time and reduce your speed, especially on corners and when approaching intersections. Braking distances increase significantly on snow and ice.

Stay Visible
Salt spray quickly dulls lights and reflectors. Wipe them clean regularly and wear bright colours that stand out against grey winter conditions.

Choose Your Route
Some routes are cleared and salted more reliably than others. You may find a slightly longer route on well-maintained streets is faster and safer than a direct path on uncleared roads.

Advocacy for Winter Cycling

GCAT advocates for improved winter maintenance on Guelph’s cycling network. Report maintenance issues to the City and let us know about routes that need attention.