| Icebiking or snowbiking is a winter sport that | | | | better handled without the spiked tires, in general. |
| many cyclists choose to partake in, partly | | | | Other concerns, besides the tires, is how easily |
| because they don't want to stop biking just | | | | road salt can corrode the bike itself. And because |
| because the weather changed, but also, because | | | | bikes aren't as solid as automobiles, the damage |
| some enjoy the challenges. And there are many | | | | can be more significant. Many icebikers and |
| challenges the icebiker faces - beyond snow and | | | | snowbikers decide to use cheap or older bikes for |
| ice, there is also salt and sand on roads that can | | | | this sort of activity, as it puts the bike at risk for |
| make navigating things even more difficult for the | | | | significantly more damage than normal biking |
| rider. | | | | conditions would. Many bikers choose aluminum |
| Given that icebiking is done in cold weather, it is | | | | bike frames, as they hold up better under the |
| important for the rider to keep warm. The rider | | | | stressful winter weather when compared to steel |
| will need a lot of protective gear, including layers, | | | | frames. Either way, it is important for the icebiker |
| vests, and other insulated clothing. The feet need | | | | or snowbiker to wash the bike thoroughly when |
| protection in the form of many layers of socks, | | | | returning from a ride. |
| as conventional boots will often interfere with | | | | Icebiking and snowbiking can be done on roads, |
| pedaling. Gloves are also a challenge, as the rider | | | | though it is not the safest option available. If one |
| needs to have a tight grip on the handlebars of | | | | is to ice or snowbike in heavily trafficked areas, it |
| the bike, and bulky gloves or mittens, which can | | | | is important to wear reflective tape or even a |
| be worn for sports like skiing or snowboarding | | | | helmet light, to notify vehicles of your presence, |
| won't work for this sport. Head gear, including a | | | | as visibility is compromised in snow and ice |
| hat and helmet, and goggles, are also essential. | | | | conditions, as is vehicle stop time. As such, many |
| Face masks are preferred by some icebikers. It's | | | | icebikers and snowbikers choose to use off-road |
| all a matter of personal preference. | | | | trails, which are safer, because they don't run the |
| Because riding on ice is difficult, many icebikers | | | | risk of encountering a vehicle. |
| buy special tires that will give them more control. | | | | When icebiking or snowbiking, the most important |
| These tires have "studs" that help keep the bike | | | | things to do are stay warm, stay safe, and be |
| from sliding, and the rider falling off. These tires | | | | careful. And finally, have fun! |
| are used almost exclusively for ice; snow is be | | | | |