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Dark, cold, and wet winter\u00a0mornings might not seem like the best time to hop on your bike, but by spending some extra time preparing, your commute might just become the best part of your day! We\u2019ve compiled a list of gear that will keep any winter cyclist warm, dry, and safe, no matter if you are a road warrior or just starting out.<\/p>\n
After your bike, a good helmet is your number one piece of gear. Whether you looking for value or seeking a lightweight or cold-weather specific model, there are helmets for every rider. Remember that you can modify your existing brain bucket for colder days with a liner, or by simply wearing a thin toque or balaclava.<\/p>\n Think about your clothing choices next; your goal is to arrive at your destination warm and dry. Multiple layers of sweat wicking material (like merino wool) are best \u2013 the air trapped in between each garment helps insulate, and you can remove a layer once you\u2019ve warmed up. For rainy weather, get your hands on waterproof and breathable outerwear. Without proper preparations for severe weather conditions you could become at risk of hypothermia.<\/p>\n Unless you plan on doing all your riding in the light of day, you\u2019ll need a set of lights to accommodate for low-light trips.\u00a0Consider if you\u2019ll be riding a route with streetlamps, or along an unlit pathway. Just like a vehicle, a white headlight and red taillight is standard. For general visibility, 20-30 lumens mounted on your handlebars should do the trick, but if you rely on your headlight to see, you\u2019ll want a minimum of 150 lumens mounted on your bars or helmet. Look for rear taillights in the ballpark of 40 lumens. On the road you\u2019ll want to be seen from 360 degrees, so wide-angle coverage is very important.<\/p>\n In wet weather you\u2019ll appreciate fenders, which reduce the spray from your tires and help both you and your bike stay as clean and dry as possible. There are fenders for just about every type of bike so let your local independent bike retailer help choose ones right for your frame and tire size.<\/p>\n![\"HELIUM_FLASH-ORANGE_0\"](\"\/\/livetoplaysports.com\/news-press\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/05\/HELIUM_FLASH-ORANGE_0.jpg\")
<\/a>HELMET:<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/a>CLOTHING:<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/a>LIGHTS:<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/a>FENDERS:<\/strong><\/p>\n