Cycling during months of snow and ice isn’t so scary according to Bikechain, U of T’s free bike repair service. On Wednesday a small group of cyclists nestled among tools and bike parts in Bikechain’s basement office in the International Student Centre. They swapped stories and took tips for winter biking from a volunteer on how to navigate Toronto’s cold, slippery streets.

1. Regular tires are fine. Winter tires may seem like a good idea, but regular street tires are better suited for Toronto’s conditions. Winter tires are studded and can ride on top of snow. They have little use on city roads, where a slender tire is better fitted to cut through the slush. Studded tires also have less traction on asphalt because less of the tire’s surface actually comes into contact with it, whereas a regular tire’s flat surface has full contact with the road.

2. Some days are too cold. Exercising on days when the temperature is -20 degrees Celsius or below can damage your lungs. (The cold crystallizes the cells, which transfer the oxygen from your lungs to your blood stream.) If you have to bike on such days, consider wearing a face mask that covers your mouth and nose. alt text

3. Ride it out. If you hit an ice patch, do not try to brake or turn. If you absolutely have to stop, pumping the brakes will slow down your bicycle.

4. Avoid splashing. Make sure you have fenders that protect you from the rain, snow, and slush. Ideally, your fenders should be as close to the ground as possible to keep water away from your feet. Attaching piece of plastic to the end of your fenders is enough to keep the water at bay.

5. Be prepared to hit the ground. Helmets are extra important when roads are hard and icy. Bike carefully and give yourself extra time to get places. Streetcar tracks get slippery, so make sure to cross them at a 90-degree angle. Also try to avoid snow banks and big puddles of slush: you don’t know how deep they are.

6. Dress appropriately. Layers are the best way to stay warm, and are easy to shed if you get overheated.

7. Be good to your bike. Oil the chain once every couple of weeks, and don’t leave it in a pile of snow for the entire winter—it will rust. Try and keep it warm and dry when you are not using it.