Why do we make excuses in winter?
Because we confuse weather with discomfort. Discomfort can be managed: breathable layers, protected extremities, adapted tires, lighting visible from afar. We also overestimate the amount of time lost, even though bicycles remain fast on journeys of less than 5 to 8 km and avoid traffic jams. Finally, we forget that a well-maintained bike rides better in the rain than one that has been neglected (cleaning, lubrication, minor adjustments). To prolong the life of your transmission and avoid squeaking after a shower, see our tips formaintenance in the rain at Lokki - practical and reassuring.
👉 Maintaining your bike after the rain
The 10 excuses that keep coming back (and how to dismantle them)
1. "It's too cold."
The cold bites especially at the start. tip: set off slightly cool (not overheated) and rely on 3 layers: breathable, insulating, water-repellent. Cover extremities (gloves, neck strap, underhelmet). After 5 minutes, you're up to temperature.
2. "I'll arrive soaked if it rains."
Cape or waterproof jacket, light overtrousers and overshoes work miracles. A well-adjusted front mudguard prevents a head-on shower; the rear one saves... your back. Quick storage: a raincoat bag rolls up and fits into a pannier.
3. "It's dangerous, no one can see me."
Night amplifies doubts, not risks, if you equip yourself well. Fixed front light to see, flashing rear light to be seen, plus a reflective accessory on the move (wristbands, valves, spokes). Set the front light to illuminate the road, not other people's eyes.
4. "What if my bike is stolen?"
An approved U (high level) + a secondary cable for the wheel, a solid fixed point, and you greatly reduce the risk. Add and/or tracer to find your bike. Our Lokki guide takes a look at identification.
👉 Bike marking: instructions for use
5. "I'm exhausted, winter's sucking the energy out of me."
Cycling wakes you up without "burning out": smooth cadence, moderate intensity. 10 to 20 minutes are enough for a real boost (and better sleep). On sluggish days, think VAE or a flatter route: what's important is regularity.
6. "I don't have the equipment."
No need to buy the whole rack. Start with gloves, thin beanie under helmet, water-repellent jacket, proper lights. Add the rest as you go. A trailer can turn winter errands into stable, serene rides.
👉 Choosing the right bike trailer
7. "The streets are slippery."
Adapt pressure and tire section: a little less inflation to increase footprint, correct tread pattern, smooth trajectories. Brake early, straighten the bike before the turn, avoid wet painted stripes.
8. "I'm going to spend more time than in the car."
On 5 to 8 km urban, cycling often wins out during rush hour. Avoid saturated roads, preferring continuous cycle links and calmer neighborhoods. Consistent journey times (no traffic jams, no searching for parking) make all the difference.
9. "My transmission will suffer."
Dirt is what wears it out. Rinse it off quickly after a rain, + drop of oil, and off you go again. Plan a mini-check every 200 to 300 km (chain/cable tension, pads/pads). In winter, simple, regular maintenance is worth its weight in gold.
10. "I don't have the motivation."
Set yourself a concrete goal (3 journeys/week, a ritual coffee at the finish line), prepare your gear the day before, add a ally (colleague, neighbor). The first pedal stroke is the hardest; after 5 minutes, the smile does the rest. And if the break drags on, start again gently.
👉 Managing the "winter break" by bike
Winter equipment checklist, simple and effective
- See & be seen: powerful front light, flashing rear light, reflective elements on the move.
- Stay dry: water-repellent jacket/cape, lightweight overtrousers, overshoes, long mudguards.
- Keeping warm: suitable gloves, thin under-gloves if necessary, neck strap, under-helmet.
- Riding with peace of mind: tires a little less inflated, puncture kit ready, multi-tool.
- Secure: U-shaped anti-theft device + cable, fixed point, habit of attaching everywhere (even for 2 minutes).
- Maintenance in 3 easy steps: wipe, lubricate chain, check pressure. A 5-minute ritual .
Need a hand after a shower or to make your transmission more reliable? Ourmaintenance tips are here to extend the life of components and keep your bike running smoothly all season long.
