How to Mountain Bike in Snow

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

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

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. Shift into a low gear to make pedaling easier.

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

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

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.

Who Can Help:

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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.

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.