Winter cyclist is not afraid of cold

In Oulu there are many people who don't cycle only in summer but also during winter. Winter riding is a great form of exercise, and very enjoyable as well.

No matter how cold and how much snow there is, Finns still use their bicycles not caring about the cold and wind.

Cycling is faster way to move from a place to another in a town than a car. Cycling doesn't cost a thing which is good when you are student. Usually in winter the air is crisp and clear (except when it is snowing) and you can go to classes brisk and awakened. Cycling in falling snow or on snowcovered cycle path is quiet and peaceful.

Many people think that cycling in winter is dangerous because of the icy roads. Crashing or slipping on ice can happen, but it's quite easy to learn to handle your bike. In Oulu the cycle paths are usually well sanded. Of course you can also use studded tyres if you want to. Tyre studs are small metal pieces inserted into tyres to improve tyre-road friction in snow or ice conditions. However it's smart to not hurry when you're cycling from a place to another.

The biggest problem with winter cycling is not keeping warm. On the contrary the hard part is keeping cool enough. Especially when you have to push your way through thick and wet snowdrift it's obvious that you get sweaty. However it's smart to dress warmly when it's cold and windy. Usually layered look is good way to keep warm. Long johns, hooded jacket, mittens and scarf are useful.

Darkness comes early in winter so in Oulu and in Finland you have to have headlamp on when you're biking. If you don't the police may fine you.

All in all winter cycling may offer you great experiences. Certainly you stay in shape and brisk through the long period of darkness.

Separate winter tyres are not a necessary, but studded tyres do give extra grip on ice glazed roads. For normal road use they are noisy and increase rolling resistance.