Boulder offers winter biking resources
[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIlCTZ5nv7U&feature=youtu.be]
Last week, Boulder residents participated in their 9th annual Winter Walk and Bike Week. Friday, Feb. 9 was also International Bike to Work Day. While biking in the winter might sound unpleasant, local groups offer advice on how to ride safely during colder months.
With 300 days of sunshine, Colorado is undoubtedly a bike-friendly state, but the brutal winter weather can make for a challenging bike ride. Subzero temperatures, snow and ice are all concerns for bikers who brave a chilly commute in the winter months.
“Your bike is probably just fine. It’s probably perfectly suitable for riding in the winter. The clothes that you wear, that you go skiing in, that you shovel your snow with, they’re probably great for riding a bike,” said Dennis Olsen of Community Cycles. Olsen hosts a winter commuting 101 workshop to help people make the seasonal transition.
“And a lot of what it comes down to is having a positive attitude. It is easy to do, and I encourage you to do it. I’m a working professional, I have a lot of places that I need to be, I don’t have a car or drivers license and I get every place just fine,” Olsen added.
In addition to Olsen’s workshop, the University of Colorado also offers winter biking advice. CU’s environmental center recently hosted an event on Friday, Feb. 9 to help show support for Bike to Work Day.
Brandon Smith, the center’s transportation program manager and an avid cyclist for 22 years, said, “It’s really important on the coldest days to just really cover up your skin.” You can easily wear a variety of layers so you have options based on the fluctuating temperatures.
With all of these cycling resources available here in Boulder, Colo. biking in the winter shouldn’t discourage you. Just remember to wear your warm clothes and helmet, and always use your best judgment based on the road conditions.