How To

How to Mountain Bike in Snow

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(7 Ratings)

If you live in a place where winter brings snow, you probably wonder if it means an end to mountain biking season. The answer: no way.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • All-purpose Bike Tools
  • Bike Helmets
  • Bike Tires
  • Mountain Bikes
  1. Step 1

    Prepare your bike for winter conditions - see "Prep a Mountain Bike for Winter," under Related eHows.

  2. Step 2

    Choose the proper tires. The knobbier they are, the better traction you'll have.

  3. Step 3

    Move your weight to the back of your bike as you approach the snow. The more you can weigh down your rear tire, the better traction you'll have.

  4. Step 4

    Shift into a low gear to make pedaling easier.

  5. Step 5

    Lift your front wheel off the ground just before you hit the snow.

  6. Step 6

    Keep your momentum and continue to pedal the entire time you are in the snow - especially if the snow is deep or soft.

  7. Step 7

    Brake early. Your brakes won't work as well in cold weather as they do when it's warm.

  8. Step 8

    Watch out for slippery sections and try not to brake when you hit ice.

Tips & Warnings
  • Dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
  • Mountain biking is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

Comments  

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 1/9/2006 Studded tires are the best thing to ride in snow or on ice - The best brand (IMHO): Nokian as they are using carbide steel studs that will not fade away on pavement.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 For riding on ice and hard pack snow, you're going to need studs in a pair of knobby, mountain bike tires. The type of tire that was recomended to me was the Velocirapter. Have your local bike shop put the studs in for you.

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