While Truckee’s multi-use trails are bustling with bicyclists all summer, many residents put their bikes into hibernation for the winter months. Just because the temperatures have dropped, doesn’t mean you need to stop biking. With the right gear, you can keep enjoying your rides year-round and best of all, bypass ski traffic when you’re getting around town!

Biking is a great way to enjoy Truckee’s paved multi-use trail network that is plowed all winter long, providing a great way to get around town in winter while staying out of traffic. You can check trail conditions on the Town’s Where’s My Plow? map by selecting the “Trails and Sidewalks” tab. Many runners and dog walkers may not expect to see a cyclist on the trails in winter, though, so slow down and be sure to announce yourself before you pass.

If you’re considering giving winter biking a try, the most important thing is to take it slow! Just like your car, your bicycle needs a longer stopping distance when there is ice and snow on the road and can’t take turns as quickly as you may be used to. Snow berms can reduce visibility and significantly narrow roads, so be extra cautious and always stay well out of the way of snow removal equipment.

If you’re new to winter biking, the best place to start is your local bike shop! They can answer all your questions on how to keep your bike running year-round, but here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

  • Winter tires. Just like your car, your bike needs winter-appropriate tires if you’ll be riding on ice or snow. Talk with your local bike shop about what kind of tires are appropriate for your bike and the type of conditions you’ll be riding in. Check your tire pressure regularly, and keep them on the lower end of the recommended range.
  • Layer up! Don’t underestimate the wind chill, especially if you’re riding an e-bike. Your face, feet, and hands will likely get colder than you expect even if you’re used to being outdoors in winter. You will want a good liner underneath your regular bike helmet, or a helmet designed for winter biking (if using a ski helmet, make sure it’s certified for biking!). You might also consider gloves specifically made for winter biking to keep your hands toasty while still providing good control for brakes and shifters.
  • Stay dry. Winter biking means lots of contact with snowmelt and slush, so wear a water-resistant outer layer. Fenders can also help keep slush off your clothing and gear.
  • Light up! While lights and reflective gear are important year-round, nights are longer this time of year and visibility is reduced in winter conditions. It may be worth investing in better high-visibility gear to make sure you can be seen clearly by drivers.

If you do get out on the roads or trails this winter, make sure to keep your bike clean and dry. Grime and road salt can build up quickly and can cause damage, so clean it off regularly. You may want to park your bike indoors to help keep it protected from winter weather, especially if it’s an e-bike. While most e-bikes work fine in Truckee’s relatively mild winter temperatures (be sure to consult the manufacturer recommendations), being left outside in the cold can drain e-bike batteries quickly.

We hope you give winter biking a try, and enjoy this well-kept secret to avoiding ski traffic as much as we do. See you out on the trails this winter!