Finding the Winter e-Bike Smile
Updated: Jan 10, 2024
Fat-tire biking, winter biking, snow bike, call it what you like, the e-Bike does not need to hibernate. As snow blankets our region, read on for tips about discovering the e-bike smile in wintery months.
Join a group or community ride.
There are many knowledgeable and fun people riding bikes year-round in the Twin Ports, ask questions and join in the fun!
Follow and tag #ebikeduluth on Instagram for winter events!
Monday Night Fat Bike Rides - https://www.facebook.com/coggstwinports
Cold Front Winter Festival - https://coldfrontduluth.com/
Winter Bike To Work Day Events - Often on the first Friday in February! https://www.perfectduluthday.com/the-event/winter-bike-to-work-day-coffee-and-snacks/
Winter Trail Conditions - https://www.facebook.com/groups/565184807547012
Windsulate - Hands, Head, Toes...
Wind and cold temps have the greatest impact on cheeks and digits. Warm boots, winter gloves (make sure you can still operate your controls), and a face covering and/or goggles will keep you rolling well into the teens.
Dress like an onion, keeping your core warm (but not sweaty) will help. A vest and multiple non-cotton layers with a wind resistant jacket on top can keep you warm and allow to cool down if you work up a sweat pedaling.
Generally if stored inside an e-bike battery will last your entire winter ride. For longer rides or well below 20degreesF, consider insulating the battery to extend the ride time.
Light it up!
High visibility lights, clothing, and/or reflectors are essential for the dark days & nights of winter biking.
At e-Bike Duluth we stock everything from $5 reflective tape to $55 rechargeable high-lumen LED lights. Staying seen and being able to see are two different techniques during the winter (helmet mounted lights help with the later).
Wear bright or neon colored clothing during dusk/dawn & low visibility.
A front and rear facing light come standard on most e-Bikes we sell, we recommend at least one of each for winter time riding.
To Stud or not to stud?
Specially designed studded winter bicycle tires are available. They are pricey $$$, but they provide secure traction especially in the icy early & late winter conditions, and are much cheaper than a trip to the ER! Some people choose only a studded front tire to prevent icy wipeouts.
Tip your local (snow) groomer.
Many local trail networks are built and maintained by volunteer non-profit organizations. Consider chipping in to support winter trail grooming efforts here in Duluth: https://www.coggs.com/donate
Reserve a rental and head to a state park!
Book with e-Bike Duluth or visit a nearby bike shop where helpful employees want to keep you riding all year-round https://www.e-bikeduluth.com/general-5
Some MN State Parks are now open to Fat Bikes, including Jay Cooke SP: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fatbike/index.html
Stop in or call e-Bike Duluth to learn more!
Call us at 218-206-3659 for up-to-date Fat Tire Bike Inventory!
https://www.e-bikeduluth.com/shop
Share the e-bike smile!
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