Winter Riding

Lights

All riders must carry and use sufficient lights, front and rear, for night riding and for those darker days. There are a whole selection of lights with battery packs or USB rechargeable batteries available from your local bike store or online. Many riders tend to carry a small emergency front or rear light just to be able to get home safely in case of flat batteries! The most important thing is to see and be seen, the quiet country lanes we ride do not have street lights or cat’s-eyes.

Clothing

Whilst a matter of personal preference, layering is recommended at day or night. It’s often difficult to determine just which, and how many, layers is appropriate. It’s always better to be too warm than too cold. It may be prudent to carry a lightweight gilet just in case. Importantly, if riding at night do make sure your clothing helps you to be seen. All black may be fashionable but not always helpful to drivers. There are many companies producing reflective clothing such as Proviz. A great idea.

Mudguards

It is common courtesy to use mudguards on any wet, or muddy, club ride during the winter months, normally between October & March. The club asks that you show consideration for your fellow members rather than spraying mud/salt and water over those following. If you are planning on joining the faster close-riding groups, such as the Training Ride or ‘Chaingang’ then you may be politely asked to ride at the back rather than risk causing an accident by unsighting fellow riders. Always allow a little more space in the inclement weather.

Miscellaneous

We all look after each other, particularly on night rides in the winter. This said you need to make sure you carry the basics, tubes, pump/gas, levers just in case. Spare gloves on longer potentially wet rides and don’t forget overshoes. If in any doubt ask those more experience riders around you.