Originally Posted by
ginsoakedboy
I've done a bit of winter riding here in Minneapolis, but am looking to get serious about it this winter.
I've read some of the recent posts on cold-weather riding, studded tires, etc., and it has raised some particular questions for me -- I would appreciate the input of those of you veterans out there:
1) I think I want to invest in a set of studded tires. Assuming that I'm too lazy to swap tires often, and that I don't have an extra bike that I could set up with studs, will it work ok to put on a set of studded tires when the first snow hits, and leave them on until the spring thaw?
Another thing you can do is have a spare wheelset with studded tires on. It's much faster and easier to swap wheels than to swap tires.
5) Dressing for it. I'll probably invest in some better cold-weather clothing, and would probably be inclined to get stuff that I can layer up (rather than, say, a set of thick neoprene tights that will only be good for conditions that only occur a few days a year). What works well (winter-specific cycling boots vs. toe or shoe covers over regular shoes)(base layers under a set of loose-fitting tights or wind pants vs. a warm single layer)(arm, leg, and knee warmers)(gloves). Please include some particular product recommendations if you have found some things that work well.
Check out Winter cycling, and particularly the "Today I wore" thread. Tons of useful info there.