Keeping the dream alive

Susan Swarbrick

Columnist and Senior Features Writer

Saturday 13 October 2012

Riding through autumn and winter keeps the blues – and sweat – at bay.

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Susan Swarbrick

Here, some of cycling's top names give their best advice for pedalling through the coming months.

* Make sure your bike is fit for purpose

"During winter this means using slightly wider and heavier tyres with full-length mudguards and having carrying capacity for spare clothes," says Graeme Obree, the former world pursuit champion and twice holder of the hour record. "Inspect your tyres regularly because grit, rather than giving an instant puncture, slowly works its way in. Look out for the sharp, almost glass-like pieces and pick them out before they get a chance to do any real damage."

* Stand out from the crowd"Ensure you can be seen on dark nights," says Inverness-based mountain biker and British under-23 cross-country champion Kenta Gallagher. "While it's often tempting to buy lights at £5, it is worth investing in a decent set. For £50 you can get a good pair of front and rear lights."Regularly check battery life or make sure they are properly charged. Not only is it important for people to see you, but should you end up on an unlit road, you can get home safely."* Choose your clothing wiselyErick Rowsell, a pro cyclist with Livingston-based Endura Racing, says, "Cycling with cold hands is just not fun, so get a good pair of gloves."* Be prepared"Get good mudguards to stop spray and waterproof overshoes, gloves and a helmet liner to help stay warm and dry," says Scottish track cyclist John Paul. "Carry a plastic bag to put over your saddle to keep it dry during coffee breaks. Stay hydrated, even if it's cold, and carry snacks so you don't 'bonk' – cycling parlance for running on empty – on longer rides."* Adapt to conditions"Cycle a bit further from the verge than in summer," says round-the-world explorer Mark Beaumont. "You want to stay out of that margin of grit and dirt that can easily cause a slip and fall. The rules of the road ask cars to overtake cyclists with the same space as they would other vehicles, which is why cyclists are allowed to ride two abreast, so don't feel obliged to hug the edge."* Outsmart the elements"There is a lot of enjoyment in cycling year round. Sure, it's cold, but you don't end up with midges in your eyes," says Obree, who recently published his own training and preparation manual for cyclists, The Obree Way (£30, www.obree.com). "In winter I wouldn't leave home without my touring cape, which is worn like poncho. "I've been in the middle of moors in Ayrshire with a broken chain, heavy snow falling and using my touring cape like a survival suit as I fix it. Make sure you have a tool kit – and know how to use it."* But don't play the hero"If it's icy, stick to the bigger roads," says Gallagher. "Not necessarily busy routes, but those you know will be well gritted and try to avoid side streets which can be more treacherous."* If all else fails, take your cycling indoors Use a turbo trainer during winter, says Jonathan Tiernan-Locke, pro cyclist with Endura Racing and winner of the 2012 Tour of Britain. "You can get a lot done in an hour on the turbo trainer as there's no traffic lights or downhill sections to give you a rest. It's the best way to do interval training as you can give 100% effort – which isn't always possible or safe on the road."

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