Cycling in winter can be invigorating and a lot of fun, but staying warm is essential to ensure comfort and safety. Here’s how to keep the chill at bay while enjoying your winter rides.

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Layer Up for Optimal Warmth

The key to staying warm cycling in winter is dressing in layers. This not only traps heat but also allows you to adjust as your body warms up:

– Base Layer: A moisture-wicking thermal top is crucial to keep sweat off your skin. Materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics work best.

– Mid Layer: This is your insulating layer, often a fleece or lightly insulated jacket.

– Outer Layer: Choose a windproof or waterproof cycling jacket to protect against rain and wind chill. Wearing a waterproof jacket when it’s not raining can often feel like wearing a bin bag, with copious amounts of sweat building up inside. For that reason, a windproof or softshell layer may be more appropriate as it allows more vapour to escape than a waterproof.

– Legs: Wear full-length or three-quarter leggings to keep your legs warm. These either come with an in-built chamois pad or without. Leggings without a pad are designed to be worn over the top of a normal pair of bib shorts.

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 Keep Extremities Protected

Your hands, feet, and head lose heat quickly, so ensure they’re adequately covered:

– Gloves: Insulated, waterproof gloves keep hands warm while maintaining dexterity. If you want to simply improve a pair you already have, buy a pair of waterproof outers to go over the top to keep rain and wind out. If you still have cold hands, consider buying some mountaineering gloves that also covers your wrists in addition to your hands.

– Footwear: Use thermal socks and consider waterproof socks in wet weather.

– Overshoes or winter-specific cycling shoes: If you have winter-specific cycling shoes then great. If not, get some overshoes or ‘booties’. The best for winter are made of neoprene (wetsuit material) and should be a snug fit.

– Headwear: A thermal skull cap or headband under your helmet can make a big difference. We prefer merino wool for both warmth and breathability.

– Buff / snood: A simple tube of stretchy material that keeps your neck warm. A great deal of heat loss occurs from the neck so these are essential in cold weather.

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 Stay Dry

Moisture is your enemy in the cold. Whether it’s sweat or rain, staying dry helps maintain body temperature:

– Opt for breathable fabrics that wick moisture away. We prefer merino wool but there are also some fantastic synthetic materials out there too.

– Carry a lightweight waterproof jacket in case of unexpected rain. Get one that folds up to the size of a tennis ball, that way you can always carry it just in case.

– Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and can lead to rapid cooling. Again, merino wool or breathable synthetics are best.

Adjust Your Ride

Shorten your rides or plan routes with shelter or plenty of potential coffee shops if the weather is particularly harsh. Ensure your bike is equipped for winter conditions by checking tyre tread and installing mudguards to prevent spray from soaking your clothes.

For more tips on how to winterise your bike, see our blog Keeping your bike happy over winter: https://www.moreadventure.co.uk/keeping-your-bike-happy-over-winter/ 

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Stay Fueled and Hydrated

Cold weather burns more calories, so keep energy levels up:

– Pack high-energy snacks like energy bars or trail mix.

– Stay hydrated with an insulated water bottle to prevent freezing.

 Visibility Matters

Shorter daylight hours and poor weather mean reduced visibility. Equip your bike with:

– Bright front and rear lights.

– Reflective clothing and accessories.

Conclusion

With the right gear and preparation, winter cycling can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. For more adventures and expert advice, visit our Adventures page and discover a range of cycling trips and tips to keep you riding all year round.

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Techtip Thursday – send your location on Whatsapp!

Sending your location on WhatsApp is a great feature of WhatsApp and here’s how to do it. We use WhatsApp a lot when cycling, not only to track riders in real time but also to quickly locate and navigate to riders that need assistance.

The only difference on an iPhone or on IOS is the paperclip symbol is a cross, not a paperclip.

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Clipped-in road cycling pedals are essential for avid cyclists seeking enhanced efficiency, power transfer, and control during their rides. While they can seem intimidating to newcomers, mastering the use of clipped-in pedals can greatly enhance your cycling experience. In this article, we’ll explore some valuable tips to help you get the most out of your clipped-in road cycling pedals and enjoy a smoother and more efficient ride.

1. Choose the Right Pedals and Cleats

Before diving into using clipped-in pedals, it’s crucial to select the right ones for your needs. Different pedal systems and cleat styles exist, each with its unique features. Some popular options include Look Keo, Shimano SPD-SL, and Speedplay. Consider factors like ease of entry and exit, float (the degree of lateral movement allowed), and pedal weight. Additionally, ensure compatibility between your chosen pedals and cycling shoes.

2. Practice Unclipping

One of the most intimidating aspects of clipped-in pedals is the fear of getting stuck. To overcome this, practice unclipping your shoes from the pedals while stationary. Start by using a wall or a sturdy object for support, then gradually move to unclipping on the go. Begin by practising away from traffic on a quiet car park or similar paved area, the flatter the better. This skill will become second nature with practice, reducing the anxiety of being unable to release your foot from the pedal when needed.

3. Set the Proper Release Tension

Most clipped-in pedals allow you to adjust the release tension to your preference. Beginners often benefit from setting the tension on the loose side, making it easier to unclip. As you gain confidence and experience, gradually increase the tension to find the perfect balance between secure attachment and ease of release.

4. Learn to Clip In Quickly

Efficiency is key in road cycling, and clipping in quickly after a stop or start can save valuable time and energy. Practice smoothly engaging your cleats into the pedals while on the move. Focus on aligning the cleats with the pedal, and with practice, you’ll master the art of swift clipping in.

5. Pedal Technique

Proper pedal technique is essential for utilising the benefits of clipped-in pedals. Maintain a smooth and circular pedalling motion to distribute power evenly throughout your pedal stroke. Avoid “mashing” the pedals, which can lead to discomfort and decreased efficiency. Concentrate on pulling up as well as pushing down, making the most of the full revolution.

6. Start with Short Rides

If you’re new to clipped-in pedals, it’s a good idea to start with shorter rides to build your confidence and adapt to the new setup. Gradually increase the ride duration as you become more comfortable. Remember that there is a learning curve, and it’s normal to have a few awkward moments initially.

7. Use Float to Your Advantage

Float refers to the amount of lateral movement allowed by the cleats in the pedals. Having a little float can reduce the risk of knee strain and make your pedal stroke feel more natural. Experiment with different float settings to find what works best for your riding style and comfort.

8. Regular Maintenance

To ensure your clipped-in pedals continue to function optimally, perform regular maintenance. Keep the pedal and cleat contact points clean, and lubricate them as recommended by the manufacturer. Inspect cleats for wear and replace them when necessary to maintain a secure connection.

Conclusion

Clipped-in road cycling pedals offer numerous advantages for cyclists, but they require some practice to master. By choosing the right pedals and cleats, practising unclipping, setting the proper release tension, and focusing on pedal technique, you can unlock the full potential of these pedals. With patience and persistence, you’ll enjoy a smoother, more efficient, and ultimately more enjoyable cycling experience. So, clip in and pedal your way to cycling greatness!

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Every road cyclist knows that being prepared for the unexpected is essential when you’re out on the open road. Whether it’s a sudden flat tyre, a loose bolt, or a minor mechanical issue, having the right tools at your disposal can mean the difference between a smooth ride and a frustrating experience. That’s where multitools come in.

These compact, versatile gadgets are like Swiss Army knives for cyclists, offering a variety of essential tools in a single package. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best multitools for road cycling, ensuring you’re always ready to tackle whatever the road throws your way.

Topeak Mini 20 Pro

The Topeak Mini 20 Pro is a top choice for many road cyclists. Despite its small size, it boasts an impressive array of functions, including a chain tool, multiple Allen wrenches, a Phillips screwdriver, and a Torx wrench. The tools are made of high-quality materials and are designed for ease of use. Plus, it comes with a neoprene pouch to keep everything organized and protected from the elements.

Crank Brothers M20

The Crank Brothers M20 is another excellent multitool known for its durability and versatility. It features 19 tools, including a chain tool, spoke wrenches, various Allen and Torx wrenches, and even a handy bottle opener. The M19’s slim profile and lightweight design make it easy to carry on your rides, and it comes with a stainless steel carrying case for added protection.

Lezyne V-11

The Lezyne V-11 is a minimalist’s dream multitool. Despite its compact size, it offers 11 high-quality functions, including a chain breaker, tire lever, and a variety of Allen and Torx wrenches. It’s designed with a lightweight aluminum body and is known for its durability. The V-11’s simple, elegant design makes it a favorite among road cyclists who appreciate simplicity.

Park Tool IB-3

Park Tool is a trusted name in cycling tools, and the IB-3 is no exception. This multitool is designed with cyclists in mind, featuring 10 essential tools, including tire levers, chain breaker, and multiple wrenches. The IB-3’s unique three-sided design makes it comfortable to hold and easy to use, even for tough tasks like removing stubborn pedals.

Blackburn Switch Multi-Tool

The Blackburn Switch Multi-Tool stands out for its innovative design. It features 19 functions, including a CO2 inflator, chain breaker, and a disc pad spreader. What sets it apart is its unique removable bits, allowing you to customize your tool based on your specific needs. It’s a great choice for cyclists who want flexibility and functionality in one package.

Conclusion

A high-quality multitool is a must-have for any road cyclist. It provides peace of mind knowing that you’re prepared for minor repairs and adjustments during your rides. When choosing a multitool, consider the number and types of functions you need, the tool’s build quality, and its ease of use. Whichever multitool you choose from our list, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the unexpected challenges of the road, ensuring that your cycling adventures are enjoyable and hassle-free. So, before your next ride, don’t forget to tuck one of these multitools into your jersey pocket or saddlebag – you’ll thank yourself later!

The post The Swiss Army Knives of Cycling: Best Multitools for Road Cyclists appeared first on More Adventure.

Cycling in California is an absolute delight. Jaw dropping coastal scenery, incredible food and fantastic cycling roads.

If you’re interested in joining us here in 2024, check out what you can expect in the video above.

The post Cycle California Video appeared first on More Adventure.

Here’s six reasons why we love Italy so much:

1. Diversity. Italy really has it all, from snowy mountain peaks to warm sandy beaches.
2. Food & wine. World renowned cuisine and wine. Plus plenty of tasty carbs to fuel your days in the saddle.
3. A cycling country. Italians absolutely love to pedal and their cycling culture is unrivalled throughout the world..
4. Jaw-dropping landscapes. Everywhere you look you’ll be blown away. The natural beauty of Italy is truly mesmerising.
5. Art & Culture. The birthplace of countless artists, musicians and mind-blowing architecture.
6. Epic roads. From challenging mountain climbs, to undulating coastline, to tree-lined time trial sections, there are roads for every rider.

And here are four trips that showcase this incredible country:

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You will need a waterproof jacket, waterproof trousers, extra warm layer (jumper/fleece), warm hat and a warm pair of gloves in your mountain rucksack regardless of the forecast. It doesn’t matter what time of year it is, it can always be cold on the summit of a mountain and we need to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances.

We recommend our partner Cotswold Outdoor for outdoor equipment. 

	Rucksack – Needs to be around 30 litres in capacity so that you can get all your spare kit, water, food, hats, gloves etc in. This is the rucksack that you will wear when on the mountain, so it must be comfortable and preferably with padded shoulder straps and waist belt. Rucksacks aren’t waterproof so make sure you have a rucksack liner or multiple waterproof bags for waterproofing your kit.
	Waterproof walking boots or shoes – Walking boots or walking shoes. If you’re happy in trainers then that’s fine but they must be sturdy and waterproof. If you want more support in rough ground then walking boots are better. Please ensure you have worn the boots in and tested them out before the trip begins to prevent blisters.
	Waterproof jacket with a hood – Hardshell type waterproof jacket (not Softshell ski jacket). There are plenty of brands available, seams should be taped and you must have a hood.
	Waterproof trousers – Waterproof over trousers; try to get ones with a side zip to make putting them on over boots easier.
	Headtorch – A good quality head torch and spare batteries are essential.
	Sunglasses – Sunglasses should be packed – fingers crossed it will be sunny.
	Sunhat – a wide-brimmed hat that covers your ears and neck is best.
	Suncream – Good quality suncream that has a high UV protection rating. Lip balm with sun protection is also a great thing to have.
	Woolly hat – A warm and comfortable hat.
	Gloves – Two pairs of gloves – one thick pair and one thin pair.
	Thick walking socks – Try Thorlo or Smartwool walking sock brands. Wearing two thin pairs works for some people. Try out your boots and socks before turning up on the trip to prevent blisters.
	Baselayer – Wicking base layer. This is worn next to the skin and should not be cotton. Smartwool, Helly Hansen, Icebreaker, Paramo etc.
	Fleece – A midweight long sleeved fleece is a must for extra warmth. Again, avoid cotton.
	Trousers – Generic walking trousers, no jeans or heavy tracksuit bottoms.
	First aid kit & personal medicine – A small personal first aid kit. Blister patches are a good thing to carry too. The leader will be carrying a group first aid kit.
	Water bottles and/or flask – Carrying enough water in the mountains is essential. A water bottle for cold water and a flask for a hot drink is the best setup on colder days. Carrying three litres in total is the minimum required.
	Phone/camera – A good quality camera is very important to snap those moments. A phone these days works just as well but consider keeping it waterproof in a ziplock or phone bag and ensure it has enough battery.
	Waterproof bags – Waterproof bags or stuff sacks are very useful for keeping things dry and organised. Ziplock bags or rubble sacks are excellent choices.
	Walking poles – Some people like to use walking poles. They can make walking on rough terrain easier, particularly going downhill.

If you’d like further information about climbing Snowdon or would like to hire a guide to ensure your safety and enjoyment, please get in touch below:

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But what could go wrong?

The list of things that could go wrong with a bicycle is seemingly endless, with so many moving parts and numerous components to wear out and fail. However, in my many years of guiding hundreds of people throughout the world, I’ve found that there are a few essential items that can get you out of most of the more common issues. Almost all of them are relatively inexpensive and don’t weigh a great deal.

• Pump. The lighter the better. I prefer ones with a flexible hose (not the technical name) to avoid bending or damaging the valve. Check out this one.

• Tyre levers. These vary hugely in quality. My preferred brand is Park Tools and I always carry two, here they are.

• Multitool. These are not all equal. At my last count I own six multitools that I’ve accrued over the years, some now don’t get much use, others are favourites. It’s definitely worth checking your multitool to see if it can do what you want it to do. A classic example are torx (or star) ended wrenches. If you discover mid ride that your bike has these and you don’t have them on your multitool, it can be a day-ender. This one from Topeak is great.

• Inner tubes. I ride with two inner tubes. Even if you have tubeless (a debate we won’t get into here) you’ll need to carry at least one.

• Emergency inner tube patch. These are for when you’ve used both your inner tubes (trust me it can happen) and allow you to temporarily fix a puncture without messy glue and faff. Get them here.

• Emergency tyre boot. When a tyre fails and develops a larger hole, this forms a barrier to prevent the inner tube from ballooning out of the tyre. Usually a temporary fix but essential to get you home. Get them here.

• Chainlink remover. Some multitools have a chainlink remover included but I’ve yet to find one I 100% trust so I carry a lightweight one.

• Speedlink. This makes a broken chain far more convenient. Check that your speedlink is compatible with your chain (based upon the brand and the number of gears you have). Find one here.

• Derailleur hanger. This is the piece of metal that connects your rear derailleur to your frame. If you fall off your bike or even if it accidentally falls over, there’s a chance you could bend this piece of metal which can be catastrophic. If gone unnoticed, this could cause your derailleur to end up in your spokes which makes a big (and expensive) mess. These hangers are bike-specific so even if you visit a bike shop there’s a big chance they won’t be able to help. They weigh next to nothing and are tiny so I carry mine with me everywhere.

• Lights. Even if it’s a bright sunny day I will ride with at least a rear light. Anything at all to improve your visibility on the road and warn drivers of your presence is justifiable weight in my opinion. Here are some.

• Cable ties. Just a few small cable ties are fine, they can get you out of a surprising number of problems.

• Gaffa tape. Not a whole roll, I have about a metre length wrapped around an old credit card. Again, takes up virtually no space and can be a lifesaver for fixing things (and body parts!).

• Spare gear cable. Unplanned riding in one gear is no joke. Weighs next to nothing and takes up very little space. 

• Small zip lock bag. If you get caught out in the rain then a small zip lock bag can be useful to pop your phone in.

Believe it or not, it is possible to cram all of the above (except the lights) into a small saddle bag.

What to add for longer rides

For longer more remote rides I’d also consider taking the following:

• Leatherman multitool. This may seem excessive but these really are a useful bit of kit. The pliers are particularly useful for managing cables. I have this one. 

• Spare spoke. These are wheel-specific so you’ll need to contact your bicycle shop. You’ll also need a spoke tool for this, many are included on good multitools so it’s worth checking.

• Small first aid kit. Ensure to include some large self-adhesive patches and antibacterial wipes for larger cuts and abrasions. Tubigrip and physio/kinesiology tape are also very useful for keeping dressings where you want them to be.

• Portable battery. If you’re relying upon technology for navigation and emergency use then you’ll want to avoid dead batteries. This extremely portable battery from Anker gives my phone a full charge. I also have a super short USB cable like these for this very purpose.

I hope the above helps you to avoid sticky roadside situations!

Do you carry anything different? What would you change? Please comment below, we’d love to hear from you!

Want to learn more about how to use it all?

If you’re interested in learning more about all of the items above and how to use them, we’re going to be publishing brand new videos on YouTube about exactly that in the coming months. Make sure you’re subscribed to our YouTube Channel here to get the latest updates.

The post What to carry when cycling appeared first on More Adventure.

23-year-old Ibrahim Cam, final-year Industrial Design and Technology student at Brunel University London has created Laser Lane.

“I saw drivers overtaking cyclists around corners and not giving them the 1.5m that’s required. Many drivers don’t respect the 1.5m rule, and the wind of a vehicle alone can be detrimental.”

Ibrahim Cam

Two lights that are inserted into your handlebars project two lines onto the road indicating the safe space a cyclist requires and the length of your bicycle. They increase the visibility of the rider with front and rear lights and include touch-activated indicators for making turns.

#cyclinglife #roadcycling #commute #travelsafety #roadsafety #cycling

https://www.brunel.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/articles/New-touch-activated-laser-lane-to-keep-cyclists-safeUntitled

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Despite the fact that many bicycle production companies do not publish their carbon footprint date, it is estimated that the production and shipping associated with an average bicycle produces 530 pounds (240 kilograms) of CO2 emissions. This is roughly 75 times less than the production of a car. However, this does not paint the whole picture. When compared to car travel (assuming you’re replacing car travel with bike travel), there’s also a reduction in road surface degradation and minimal ongoing pollution in the favour of bicycle travel.

That’s not to say that bicycles are of course maintenance free. New inner tubes, tyres, brake pads, oil and cables all cost the earth. However it’s estimated that the environmental cost of these over a number of years equates to less than one-sixteenth of the demands of a car.

Enter secondhand bicycles

The secondhand bicycle market has blossomed over the last few years, partly because of the hindered availability of new bikes on the market. But, if you’ve ever ventured into the world of buying secondhand bikes, it can be a daunting prospect and, as with any secondhand purchase, being absolutely sure of what you’re buying is essential.

Many companies have jumped onto the secondhand bandwagon as consumer attitudes change towards pre-used items. Admittedly with bicycles there are inherent risks and you’ve got to be confident you know what to look for when forking out cash for an item you have limited historical knowledge. One crash on a bike can render it extremely problematic at best, or worse a health hazard.

Luckily some companies have responded, one of the first being Decathlon who have launched a ‘Second Life’ website selling refurbished bikes. They hope to save 40,000kg of CO2 in 12 months while also making bikes available at more affordable prices.

This sounds like a win-win for everyone! Reducing the carbon footprint of production and transport, providing competitively priced bikes, offering assurance to consumers, and preventing bikes from going to landfill.

We hope to see more of this movement in coming years and feel it’s definitely a sector to keep an eye on.

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