The 5 Secrets of Winter Cycling

04.11.2025

With Our Tips, You Can Enjoy Cycling Safely All Year Round.

Cycling traditionally divides people into two groups: those who ride through the winter, and those who store their bikes away at the first sign of snow. However, the only real barriers to winter cycling are often our own preconceptions. With the right equipment and attitude, commuting and leisure rides can be enjoyable every day of the year.

Winter cycling offers a unique sense of freshness and accomplishment. We’ve compiled our best tips to get you started safely and joyfully on your winter cycling journey.

1. Safety First

   The most important thing in winter cycling is safety. The biggest challenge isn’t the snow itself, but the constantly changing weather conditions and the slickness they cause. With the right gear, however, cycling can be just as safe as it is in the summer.

   Nearly any bicycle is suitable for winter use, as long as it’s equipped with high-quality studded tires appropriate for the conditions. They provide a sense of confidence, and at its best, riding feels just like it does on a summer road. The benefits of studded tires are especially pronounced when the temperature hovers around freezing, creating treacherous black ice on the roads.

   In addition to tires, it's crucial to ensure your visibility. Make sure your bike has effective, legally compliant front and rear lights.

    

2. The Right Tires for the Right Use

   When choosing studded tires, it’s important to consider your bike type and your typical riding routes. We design and manufacture studded tires in Finland for our challenging conditions, with options for city, gravel, mountain, e-bike, and cargo bikes.

   An e-bike, for example, is heavier and reaches higher speeds, placing special demands on its tires. That's why Suomi Tyres studded tires designed for e-bikes feature a reinforced structure and a stronger tread.

   All our studded tires are manufactured in Lieksa from a unique, softer-than-average rubber compound. This ensures the best possible grip in freezing temperatures and holds the studs firmly in place. The number of studs in our tires varies by intended use. For city commuting, a tire with 100 studs may be sufficient, but for those seeking maximum safety and grip, we offer models with over 400 studs per tire.

    

3. Layering is Key

   Proper clothing significantly enhances riding comfort. A helmet is a cyclist's most important piece of gear regardless of the season. In winter, you can wear a thin skull cap under your helmet to protect your head from the wind.

   Layering is the winning strategy. Instead of one thick jacket, wear several thin layers. This allows you to easily add or remove clothing mid-ride if you get too hot or cold. Warm cycling gloves and shoes suitable for winter use complete the setup. However, you can easily get started with the winter outdoor clothing you already own.

    

4. Attitude is Everything

   Being in a hurry and winter cycling don't mix well. Allow a little extra time for your journeys and enjoy the steady pace. A relaxed attitude, patience, and finding joy in the activity itself are the keys to a successful winter cycling experience.

   Even the most challenging conditions, like a windy, freezing day with sleet, can be overcome with the right mindset. Remember to keep a sparkle in your eye!

    

5. Learn by Doing

   Cycling's popularity has soared, and more and more people want to continue riding year-round after discovering how easy and refreshing it is. Winter cycling saves time as your fitness improves on your commute, eliminating the need for separate trips to the gym.

   While there's plenty of information available, it's best not to over-analyze it. The best way to get into the sport is to simply go out and give it a try.
    

Suomi Tyres – Safety and Grip for Winter Roads

Near production: Our tires are locally produced in Lieksa, Finland, designed specifically for Finnish winter conditions.

Wide Range: Our selection includes suitable studded tires for city, gravel, mountain, e-bike, and cargo bikes.

The Nordic Professional: Our tires are sold in Finland and other Nordic countries—wherever winter conditions are most demanding.

Find your nearest dealer!