With the arrival of winter, rainy and snowy weather increases, bringing many inconveniences to cycling enthusiasts. Accidents such as slipping and falling during outdoor rides happen from time to time. In such bad weather, riding cautiously and slowly is key, and mastering some safety techniques is essential. Below are some cycling tips for rainy and snowy conditions.
1. Before setting out, check whether the brakes are functioning properly, and try to lower the saddle to reduce your center of gravity;
2. Increasing the contact area between the wheels and the ground can help prevent slipping, so it’s best to choose thicker tires. Don’t overinflate the tires—reduce the air pressure to about two-thirds of the normal amount.
3. Don’t carry too much or overly heavy gear on the bike, as excess weight increases inertia and makes it harder to stop quickly.
4. Stay highly focused while riding; maintain a distance of more than 3 meters from the vehicle in front to avoid being tripped up if it slips.
5. When cycling, remember not to brake suddenly, as this can cause the wheels to skid and lose balance. In snowy conditions, it’s better to ride slowly.
6. Try to avoid sharp turns, keep your center of gravity aligned vertically with the ground through the bike’s axis, and make wider turns within road limits—larger turning radiuses are safer;
7. Get off the bike as early as possible when encountering potential hazards. Never compete with motor vehicles for road space to avoid being hit by a skidding car. When facing snow-covered roads or bumpy icy surfaces, it’s safest to dismount and walk the bike through.
This article is edited by Outdoor Mall Network                http://www.solvmall.com/    Please credit the source if republishing.