11/02/2010 - Five simple rules for surviving the winter

It can be hard to get out on the trails in the winter as your kit gets filthy and to be honest sitting in watching telly can be so much more appealing. But if you can get out it is great riding the empty trails and there are a few helpful hints to make it that bit easier:

1 - Wear plenty of layers that are easy to remove when you start to get too hot. If you start a ride nice and warm you are likely to be too hot after the first few minutes and sweat loads meaning you will soon get really cold. A hat for when you stop can be invaluable for staying warm while fixing those pesky punctures

2 - Remember even though it is cold you will become dehydrated very easily which can land you in all sorts of trouble. You can keep your drinks pack working by blowing your drink back down the tube to stop it freezing.

3 – Stay nice and smooth on the trails as you will loose traction easily. You will need to over emphasise your movements too, to help keep that grip. Don’t worry about sliding, it is going to happen!!

4 – Reduce the pressure; a small psssst from your tyres can make all the difference, giving you a little bit extra at the expense of rolling resistance. Not much of an issue in deep mud.

5 – If it is really bad you may wish to consider specific mud tyres and mud guards which will keep you drier and warmer making that mud plugging ride that little bit more comfortable