Winter in Ohio may bring frigid temperatures and snowy conditions, but for the most dedicated cyclists—whether they’re training or commuting—nothing aside from severe conditions will keep them from their outdoor cycling.
If you’re braving the elements to continue with winter riding, it’s essential to be prepared with proper gear. To help you navigate cold temperatures and snowy streets with confidence and safety, here are some expert tips (and safety requirements!) for cycling through Ohio’s winter weather.
- Use lights and reflectors; it’s the law: Ensure you are visible to other road users with bike lights, i.e., bright headlights and taillights. Ohio Revised Code § 4511.56 requires (1) A lamp mounted on the front of either the bicycle or electric bicycle or the operator that shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least five hundred feet to the front and three hundred feet to the sides. (2) A red reflector on the rear that shall be visible from all distances from one hundred feet to six hundred feet to the rear. Lights and reflective elements are a must for legal cycling!
- Strategic layering: Wear multiple layers of clothing to adjust to changing temperatures and prevent overheating; consider wearing a waterproof outer layer, warm gloves, a hat, and thick socks. A dry base layer of merino wool never hurts!
- Winter rain happens: Be sure to have dependable rain gear in case the snow turns to rain.
- Wear a helmet: Ohio law does not mandate the wearing of a helmet, but some cities can and do regulate the wearing of a helmet, especially for minors. Know your local Ordinances!
- Choose your route carefully: Opt for well-plowed roads with minimal ice and shade, avoiding steep inclines and sharp corners. Avoid barriers to safety such as slick leaf-covered surfaces and slushy surfaces.
- Ride slowly and cautiously: Reduce your speed significantly during cold weather riding, especially on icy patches, and give yourself extra time to brake and maneuver.
- Adjust tire pressure: Slightly lower your tire air pressure to increase traction on snow and ice.
- Proper bike maintenance: Regularly clean and lubricate your bike, checking for any damage caused by salt and slush. Remember ABC: Check the air in your tires and make sure the thru-axle or quick release in the hub is tightened and secured; check the brakes; check the chain alignment in the chain rings and cassette.
- Stay aware of your surroundings: Be extra vigilant about potential hazards like black ice, snow drifts, and slippery surfaces.
- Practice good braking techniques: Apply brakes smoothly and gradually, avoiding sudden hard braking.
- Lower your seat slightly: This can help you maintain balance and stability in slippery conditions.
- Be prepared for unexpected situations: Plan your route, check weather conditions, and carry necessary emergency supplies.
- In Case of Emergency (ICE): Be sure to have a road ID or other form of identification and include emergency contact info.
Take it from an experienced bicycle accident lawyer who is also an avid year-round cyclist, a solid strategy for winter cycling can help keep you safe and legal as well as comfortable!
Kenneth Knabe
Ken Knabe, Greater Cleveland’s Bike Attorney promoting cycling safety and representing cyclists injured by careless drivers. 14222 Madison Avenue Lakewood, OH 44107 (216) 228-7200
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Section 4511.56 | Bicycle signal devices.
Effective: March 8, 2019
(A) Every bicycle or electric bicycle when in use at the times specified in section 4513.03 of the Revised Code, shall be equipped with the following:
(1) A lamp mounted on the front of either the bicycle or electric bicycle or the operator that shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least five hundred feet to the front and three hundred feet to the sides. A generator-powered lamp that emits light only when the bicycle or electric bicycle is moving may be used to meet this requirement.
(2) A red reflector on the rear that shall be visible from all distances from one hundred feet to six hundred feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful lower beams of head lamps on a motor vehicle;
(3) A lamp emitting either flashing or steady red light visible from a distance of five hundred feet to the rear shall be used in addition to the red reflector. If the red lamp performs as a reflector in that it is visible as specified in division (A)(2) of this section, the red lamp may serve as the reflector and a separate reflector is not required.
(B) Additional lamps and reflectors may be used in addition to those required under division (A) of this section, except that red lamps and red reflectors shall not be used on the front of the bicycle or electric bicycle and white lamps and white reflectors shall not be used on the rear of the bicycle or electric bicycle.
(C) A bicycle or electric bicycle may be equipped with a device capable of giving an audible signal, except that a bicycle or electric bicycle shall not be equipped with nor shall any person use upon a bicycle or electric bicycle any siren or whistle.
(D) Every bicycle and electric bicycle shall be equipped with an adequate brake when used on a street or highway.
(E) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
