Compiled by Janet Buckwalter

Here are some tips from Maricopa Cyclists for those enjoying the desert winter in bicycles:

• Hydrate. It’s way too easy not to drink enough water because you don’t feel hot or exhausted. It will save you from the bonk and make the ride infinitely more enjoyable.‬ – Tyler Jump

• Since it stays dark longer in the winter, make sure to have the lights on your bike fully charged. Wear bright colors. I even wear a reflective vest. On really cold mornings you can place hand warmers in your gloves.  – Jamie Cunningham-Knudsen

• The cardinal rules of cycling remain the same in any season: Be visible; stay hydrated and fueled; wear a helmet; obey the rules of the road (cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as cars).
• With the shorter days of winter, it’s easy to unexpectedly run out of daylight. Always ride with a rear facing red light and, preferably, a white front facing light. – Janet Buckwalter

• Cover your toes.  – Saul Hernandez

• Booties and wool socks work great!‬ If it’s below freezing, watch out for ice. – Kevin Craig

• If you’re comfortable when walking out the door, you’re over dressed. Overheating will cause you to sweat, make you colder and, depending on how long you’re out, even hypothermic. ‬
• Use sunscreen on exposed skin, but not your forehead (will run into your eyes when you sweat).‬
• Use a skull cap but not something so thick that you’ll overheat. You may use a thin shower cap over your helmet to keep your head warm.
• Wear gloves (warm hands go a long way), but don’t use real thick gloves that prevent use of shifters and brakes. – Pete Masiel

Search Maricopa, AZ Cyclists on Facebook
[email protected]

This story was published in the Winter Edition of InMaricopa the Magazine.