We’re debunking classic myths about winter riding. Hitting you with the truth. Revealing the dos and don’ts of cold-weather cycling. Because we think instead of thinking of riding despite the weather, you should get out because of the weather.
Winter provides new sights to be seen on our favourite loops that can only be enjoyed when we’re properly dressed. We’ve done the trial-and-error part for you. Now, we can pass our knowledge down to you in eight need-to-know hot tips for riding in cold weather.
We are Black Sheep. By definition, we firmly stand against any type of ‘blending in.’ Call us narcissistic, but we love to be seen. Especially by cars. We get to ride through beautiful parts of the world, but that doesn’t mean that we want to camouflage ourselves with these dreamy cycling routes that we frequent. Riding in winter can mean shorter days and more muted light. This isn’t only affecting your motivation to get out of the door, but it also makes you harder to see on the roads. Riding in high visibility kit and with rear lights ensure that you are more likely to be noticed by cars. Our favourite high visibility garment for winter months is the Men’s and Women’s Long Sleeve Thermal Jersey now updated with brilliant neon Thermodream fabric construction and reflective print elements to improve visibility in poor light. Stay safe. Stay bright. Stay seen.
Because of all the extra shit in the roads, your bike tends to pick up additional junk. This doesn’t just make your bike dirty, but it also can reduce the lifespan of components in your drivetrain. Save that extra money for an extra Black Sheep kit at the beginning, middle, end of the season ;)
Winter roads are often more harsh than their summer counterparts. Mud, debris and other unidentified objects often find themselves inconveniently situated in the bike lane after winter storms. This makes flat tyres more common in the winter months, meaning… you have to have a good mate on speed dial or you have to know how to change a flat yourself. As we’re all about being independent these days, we recommend the latter. To be on the safe side, we like carrying two tubes, one hand pump (or two Co2 cartridges) and two tyre levers.
OK, that may be a stretch, but it’s always going to be better to be over prepared. No one wants to be the cold friend that has to turn back because they’re too frozen to shift their bike. Cycling in the winter is tricky because although your body temperature is increasing, wind chill can make all of your hard-earned sweat from the climb transform you into a human popsicle. This is easily avoidable with a few simple layers that absorb sweat and block the wind. Our favourite winter accessory are the Winter Ear Warmers to keep away that brain freeze feeling after you’ve eaten ice cream too quickly.
Ahhh, nothing beats the satisfaction of a perfectly sized pocket to fit all the ‘just in case’ items that make your ride enjoyable. Mother Nature tends to change her mind regularly in winter months, so be prepared to put on / take off garments throughout the ride. Idea to bundle up ahead of a long descent, but the next climb may be too warm for those extra layers.
Being able to regulate body temperature on the bike is a fickle thing. With temperatures changing as often as petrol prices, staying comfortable without burning up like a Jonas brother is a tough ask of your cycling clothing. Vests with insulation are a great option for colder days because they allow more of an opportunity for the garment to breathe than a heavy jacket. Our pick is the North/South Insulated Vest. But, we may be biased.
Even though it may not feel like you need water, your body is still working hard to keep you moving. Make sure to drink plenty of water even if your body isn’t telling you you’re thirsty. Smarter people than us have proven that proper hydration leads to quicker recovery. So, you can get back on the bike in no time. Cheers.
Winter means moist days on the bike. Most people hate the word ‘moist’, but in tandem, we hate being soggy and wet. Packable rain jackets are go-to winter staples. Not only will they keep you dry when the weather reporter calls for precipitation, but it’s also a great top layer to keep you warm when temperatures drop.
PS: If Elvis Presely had found the bike, he may never have died of cheeseburger over-consumption. Just a thought.
© 2026 Black Sheep Cycling
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