In winter it's a good time to do some basic maintenace on your bike. Some people call this 'winterising' your bike.

Here is a basic checklist of things you can do to make your winter riding just as enjoyable as your summer riding:

1. Tyres
Check your tyres - although most bicycle tyres (even slicks) cope very well with wet conditions you still need to make sure that your tyres are in good condition. Some people also like to run different tyres in winter to improve traction. For roadbikes and mountain bikes there are excellent wet weather tyres available. As a bonus we're offering free fitting when you purchase new tyres from Bike Ride for the month of April.

2. Lights
You may not plan to ride the dark BUT in winter with shorter days you can easily get caught riding a twilight and if you don't have lights, front and back, it's not only illegal it's it terribly dangerous if you are on the road. It's easy to become virtually invisible to drivers without adequate lights. There are a huge range of lights available from as little as $10 so there is no excuse for not being prepared. The Basta lights featured at the bottom of this page are an excellent choice.

3. Mud Guards
Ok yes mud guards may seem like they go hand in hand with the 1960's but they are actually really really useful particularly if you are commuting. And they are not just good when it's raining - after the rain they protect you from the water left lying on the ground. PLUS the modern mud guards are easy to fit and they can look really cool - no really they can!

4. Mechanical Service
Nothing ruins a ride like a mechanical breakdown and in winter it is most miserable of all to be stuck by the side of the road with a broken cable. So service your bike! If you don't feel comfortable to do this there are people who can help!

5. Clothing
Two essential items for comfortable winter riding are a windstopper / rain proof vest or jacket (if you get really hot when you ride go for a vest if you feel the cold go for a jacket) AND some good gloves - if you feel the cold go for a full finger windstopper glove. There are plenty to choose from.

6. Get on and ride
And the most important thing is just get your leg over the bike and don't give up just because it's bit chilly! Once you get going it's great out there! If you plan to ride in the morning set your gear out the night before and so you're ready to woof down some coffee and hit the road.