Top 5 Winter Essentials

Most cyclists will stay inside when the weather turns bad, but some cyclists would rather go out whatever the weather. For the rest of us, sometimes you cant avoid getting caught out in it... But as anyone who has ridden in the rain can attest to, it imparts its own kind of pleasure. It’s cold, it’s wet, and it’s miserable, but it also comes with a feeling of toughness and the kind of pride that can only come with facing down the elements.It can be quite enjoyable if you’re properly prepared. Here are our Top 5 Essentials For Riding In The Rain

Rain Jacket: Choosing the right jacket can be a daunting task, with waterproof lightweight jackets, which are great for storing and rain protection, and a heavy breathable warm waterproof jackets all thrown into the equation. However the Madison Stellar jacket is a great compromise of both water resistance and breathable material.

MUDGUARDS: If you're out in the rain, the last thing you want is to be covered in water from the road as well as the rainfall. Prevent the dirty stripe up your back, by having a set of mudguards, from a simple "crud guard" clamped on the rear, to a full guard set fixed onto the bike, its the best way to prevent unwanted spray in an already wet condition.

LIGHTS: Lights are one of the most important part of a bike when riding in winter, although you may be riding in the few hours of light we get, if you get caught in a shower visibility is low, and light levels are not the same as summer. Keep yourself safe with a simple strap on unit, or further enhance your visibility with a usb rechargeable high power light.

CYCLING CAP: A cycling skull cap is essentially a thermal hat, that you can wear with a helmet, the best way to be warm and safe, as well as dry.

LUBRICANT: Wet conditions attract dirt, and we all know dirt is terrible for deteriorating transmission. Keep you gears running slick, by cleaning your chain after every ride, and applying some wet weather lube, which is great for protecting against unwanted wear caused by bad riding conditions.