Road bike modifications necessary?

[ds81]

Hey all,

The winter beat me about 4 months ago, but I have finally worked up the will to get back on the bike.

I have last year's trek2300. Do I need to change anything on it to ride in the winter (i.e., tires, etc.)? It might be a stupid question, but this will be my first winter as a cycling enthusiast. I guess I'm concerned about the massive amounts of salt, sand, and slush on the shoulders of the road. Assuming I go out early enough, though, before all the traffic, I can probably stay off the shoulder for the most part.

Also, are there any specific clothes that you would recommend for road cycling, or do all the clothes already mentioned in the Sticky suffice over all ranges of bikes.

Thanks in advance...

[powers2b]

I think there is a thread about that in the winter cycling forum.
Enjoy

[tulip]

There is lots of info here. Winter cycling is fun if you and your bike are properly outfitted. It also depends on where you live and the severity of your winter.

Not that we don't want to answer your questions, but take a look at the various threads in this forum (winter cycling). I think you will find your answers, and then some.

[halfbiked]

where are you doing your biking?

are you biking for recreation or utility?

[ds81]

Hey Halfbiked,

I don't cycle for race or anything like that...just for fun and to stay fit. I'm on Long Island, so not the greatest of weather. The roads get kind of "pot-hilly" around this time of year, though I will do my best to avoid them. My tires are currently slicks, so I'm concerned that they won't suffice, though I don't plan on riding on ice.

Thanks

[GreyGoat]

save the Trek until the rains have cleaned all the salt away.. pick up an old mt bike cheap somewhere for a winter bike.. thro some fenders on it and have a blast while saving your good bike.. plus the mt bike tires are much nicer on the ruff pot holes... it will be slower, but that's ok.. think about it.. before you let any salt hit that beautiful 2300... I have a 2200 from I think 92, started as a 2100 in 91 but they replaced the frame when lug glue let go in 92 and I also got to up to a 130mm drop out and eventually 8 speed STI from 7 on the down .. I love that frame..