Snow Biking Lessons Learned

One of the eye opening experiences for doing the Togwotee Winter Classic was that you got to see lots of snow bikes and there was plenty of opportunity to observer and pick up hints of how to do things better....It got me to thinking about what I learned from the race and other participants, as well as what I have learned along the way via trial and error.  Below is a short list of stuff:

• You can stay warm in surprisingly cold conditions as long as you are moving
• It is all about the layers - for me the upper layers are a base layer to wick moisture, a thermal jersey, and a vest
• Lower layers include bike shorts and craft pants
• Layering is different for everyone based on personal needs.
• Wind resistant & breathable layers are key
• Water sources freeze (even the insulated camel hoses)
• Keep sipping on the camel back hose to move water so it does not freeze as quickly
• Keep the hose under your clothes, close to your skin so body temps keeps it liquid
• PSI PSI PSI...conditions will dictate what pressure to run.  I was running what I thought was low psi at 6 and I should have let more air out for the loose conditions...could have probably even gone down to about 3 or 4!
• 3 layer system for feet...liner, vapor barrier, warmth layer (for me it is a thin liner, a goretex sock, and a wool sock).
• Stay Dry!  anything wet will get COLD
• Bar Mitts rule in cold conditions.  You can wear a light spring glove and your hands will stay plenty warm
• Clean/lube chain often to prevent rust
• Nutrition & Hydration is difficult while riding in snow (for fear of letting one hand off the cockpit and losing control of the bike)
• Balaclavas rock and are very versatile!
• Ski Goggles come in handy with high winds and sideways blowing snow
• Having backup beanie, gloves, etc is good in the event something gets wet/cold
• I had to use clipless pedals - platform pedals and hiking boots did not have enough arch support and creating issues with plantar fasciitis
• Drilling out your rims just looks rad
• Pushing your bike in the snow is hard
• Snow mobile tracks are not optimal for snow biking - they actually loosen the snow up
• Riding your bike in the snow is all about finding the right line
• Riding your bike in the snow is hard
• Riding your snow bike is BIG FUN
• Riding your snow bike with others is BIGGER FUN

I will add to the list as I learn more but figured it is a good start to keep reminding myself of the goodness that is riding obese tires.