6 Tips for Fun Winter Family Bike Rides
The temperatures have dropped and the mornings are frosty, but that doesn't mean family cycling has to hibernate! Winter can be one of the most rewarding times for family bike rides. The air is fresh and invigorating, the roads are quieter, and there's something magical about exploring sparkling frosty landscapes and the quiet of winter paths.
Here are our top tips to help you and your family make the most of winter cycling.
1. Give Your Bikes Some Winter Love ❤️
Cold weather means your bikes need a bit of extra attention to keep running smoothly.
Quick checks to keep you rolling:
Tyres: Check pressure regularly—cold weather can reduce tyre pressure. Firm tyres with good tread give better grip.
Brakes: Test them before every ride. Winter conditions mean you'll need reliable stopping power.
Chain: Winter riding means more moisture and grit. Wipe your chain down regularly and add lubricant to keep it running smoothly. We like GT85 multi-purpose spray. DON'T FORGET: Spray away from brake pads, discs and rims.
Mudguards: If your bikes don't have them already, mudguards are brilliant for winter riding—they keep road spray off you and your bike.
Quick win: Keep a cloth handy to wipe down bikes after winter rides—it'll help prevent rust and keep everything in top condition.
2. Light Up and Be Seen 💡
With shorter days, you'll often be cycling in low light or darkness—so being visible is essential.
You need a white light on the front and a red light on the back. It's the law between sunset and sunrise, and it keeps your family visible and confident.
Modern bike lights are affordable and easy to use. Add reflective bits to bags, clothing, or helmets for extra visibility.
Top tip: Reflective ankle bands are brilliant for making children more visible—they catch drivers' attention as the pedals move.
3. Dress Like an Onion (Layers!) 🧅
The secret to comfortable winter cycling? Layers you can adjust as you warm up!
The simple formula:
Base layer - wicks moisture away and keeps you dry
Mid layer - insulates and keeps you warm
Outer layer - windproof and waterproof jacket
Add gloves, a warm hat or headband under your helmet, and a neck warmer or buff. Thermal socks make a huge difference on cold days too! Don't worry if you feel a bit chilly at the start—you'll warm up quickly once you're pedalling!
Parent tip: Pack spare gloves in your bag. Cold, damp hands can turn a brilliant ride into a miserable one. Dry backup gloves are absolute lifesavers!
4. Plan Your Routes Thoughtfully 🛤️
Winter cycling just needs a bit of clever planning to make it comfortable and enjoyable.
Smart route planning:
Stick to gritted roads: Main roads and cycle paths are usually gritted and cleared first. Check your local council website to see gritting routes.
Choose sunny spots: Routes that catch the sun are more pleasant on cold days and warm up faster in the mornings.
Stick to routes you know well: Familiar paths mean more confidence and fewer surprises in winter conditions.
Plan for daylight: Check sunset times and aim to complete your ride with plenty of daylight to spare.
Take it steady on frosty mornings: If it's been a cold night, give the roads time to warm up—mid-morning rides are perfect!
Weekend tip: Late morning rides on sunny winter days are ideal—roads have warmed up and you'll catch the best of the winter sunshine!
5. Turn Rides into Winter Adventures ❄️
Winter cycling offers unique opportunities for family fun that other seasons can't match! Embrace the tranquillity of less crowded paths and the unique beauty of landscapes transformed by winter.
Try these ideas:
Frosty treasure hunts: Challenge kids to spot the most interesting frost patterns or winter flowers like snowdrops
Wildlife watching: Winter is brilliant for spotting birds, and bare trees make it easier to see them
Hot chocolate missions: Ride to a local café for the ultimate warming winter treat—it tastes even better when you've earned it!
Seasonal challenges: Count how many robins you can spot, or see who can find the most unusual ice patterns
You're combining fresh air, exercise, and quality family time all in one. Children who cycle regularly develop confidence, resilience, and independence that lasts a lifetime.
Family bike rides give you focused time with your children without the distraction of mobile phones—for everyone!
6. Stay Fuelled and Warm 🥤
Don't forget that cycling in cold weather still requires plenty of fuel and hydration!
Keep energy levels up:
Carry warm drinks: An insulated bottle with warm squash or hot chocolate keeps everyone hydrated and adds a warm boost during your ride.
Pack energy-boosting snacks: Nuts, dried fruits, granola bars, or flapjacks are easy to eat on the go and provide the fuel your family needs for winter adventures.
Even in cold weather, your body needs regular hydration and energy—especially when you're working hard to stay warm!
Why We Love Winter Cycling
At Pedal Power Training, we're passionate about getting families cycling throughout the year. Winter brings crisp, invigorating air, quieter roads, and the satisfaction of staying active when others are hibernating indoors!
We believe cycling is brilliant for three simple reasons: it's good for your health, great for the environment, and it saves you money.
Through our cycle training, we help children and adults build the skills and confidence to enjoy cycling all year round. If your child's school offers cycle training, we'd love to welcome them. And if you're a parent who'd like to feel more confident cycling in winter conditions, get in touch—we work with all ages and abilities.
Get Out There and Enjoy!
Don't let Winter weather keep your family indoors. With the right preparation and a positive attitude, winter can be one of the most beautiful times to cycle together.
Remember: you don't need perfect weather for a perfect ride. Some of the best family cycling memories happen on frosty afternoons with rosy cheeks, muddy wheels, and big smiles.
So grab those warm layers, pump up those tyres, and head out for an Winter adventure!
