Caution: Not every winter day is a cycling day. Some days it is better to leave your bicycle at home. Riding in the snow is a challenge even for very highly skilled cyclists. Use discretion.

• If you feel comfortable riding in the snow, remember that drivers can't stop as quickly and the roads may be narrower because of the snow piled at the curb.

• Icy conditions are never recommended for cycling.

If you choose to ride, here are some suggestions:

Caution: Streetcar tracks will be icy when other road surfaces are not. Try to walk your bicycle across streetcar/railway tracks. If you must cycle across, always cross at a right angle.

• Lessen tire pressure to the low end of recommended range (written on tire sidewall) to increase traction.

• Adjust your fenders, if necessary, so that there is lots of room between the fender and tire to avoid snow build up.

• Clips are not recommended in snowy or icy conditions; you may have to put your feet down in a hurry.

• Cyclists are divided in their opinions about what tires work best. Thick-tread mountain bike tires will increase traction/grip on snow (particularly good for hard packed), whereas thin tires will cut through the snow (particularly good for loose snow) to the pavement. Some people use studded tires; these are noisy on dry pavement but particularly good for ice.

• Snow banks may cause you to ride further out in a lane. If you need to move out from the curb be sure to communicate your intentions with other traffic. Shoulder check to make sure it's safe to move out, signal, do a second shoulder check to make sure it's still clear, and then move out.

• Let your bicycle get cold outside before riding-less snow will stick to it if it's already cold.

• Carry either a lighter, WD40, or light machine oil, in case your lock freezes; try adding a drop of oil or graphite lock lubricant in the locking mechanism to prevent freezing.

• Remember to take your water bottle inside to prevent freezing!

• If you encounter black ice, steer straight, don't pedal, and try not to brake as this could cause you to skid and fall.

• Avoid riding over snow--it may hide ice-and avoid riding over snow banks; stay on wet pavement.

• Leave extra room for braking.

• Streetcar tracks will be icy when other road surfaces are not.

• Try to walk your bicycle across streetcar/railway tracks.

• If you must cycle across, always cross at a right angle, stop pedalling, keep your pedals horizontal, flex your arms and legs to absorb the shock and lift off your feet.

• Shift often to prevent snow from jamming up the chain.

• Leave extra time to cycle slower in wet and snowy conditions.

• Plan your route in advance, and have an alternative in mind in case of snow or ice.

• Keeping warm and dry
• Riding tips
• Visibility
• Bicycle choice and equipment
• Maintenance
• Wet weather
• Snow and ice
• Download the Cold weather cycling brochure (PDF 110 Kb)