As of Wednesday, Hubway will officially close for the season. Boston’s bike-sharing program has been closing several stations per day since Nov. 21.
These stations will not reopen until March. But even without city sanction, some cyclists are determined to keep pedaling through the upcoming winter.
Mark Vautour, store manager of the Landry’s Bicycles near West Campus, said that the store sees a dramatic decrease in business over the winter months.
“We still see repairs, but it’s not more [than in other seasons],” Vautour said. “It’s a select group of the same people. Definitely the number of people that ride is significantly reduced.”
The local cycling blog Boston Biker has been publishing an ongoing series of tips and tricks for the harsh conditions. Some problems bikers face include salt damage and bike paths filled with snow and ice, according to Boston Biker.
Vautour said that for those planning to cycle in the harsh conditions, there are two key points.
“It’s a combination of basic maintenance and proper clothing,” Vautour said.
He also said that it is important to have tools such as fenders to keep things clean and dry, and to use chain lube regularly to avoid rust and salt damage.
A Better City Transportation Management Association published A Bike Commuters Guide to give bike riders tips for preparing for the chilly weather.
The guide suggests that cyclists avoid wearing cotton undershirts and instead choose wicking fabrics such as wool, fleece or silk, which keep riders dry and warm.
“You need warm clothing,” said Morgan, a mechanic at the International Bicycle Center in Boston who asked to keep his last name anonymous. “And if you can keep yourself dry, you can keep yourself warm.”
Cyclists should not bundle up too much around their extremities, according to the Boston Biker. Too many layers on the hands and feet can cut off blood circulation and make riders even colder.
The law requires cyclists to have a white light on the front of their bikes and a red light on the backs, according to ABC TMA.
The type of tire bikers choose is one of the main components that affect winter riding. Except for expensive studded tires, everything is bound to slip at some point, according to the Boston Biker.
But despite all the hassle, biking during the winter has its upsides.
“It can be a lot of fun,” Morgan said. “You’re going to be moving a little bit slower — riding in the snow is different than riding on dry land — but it can be fun.”
Braving wind, snow and bone-chilling temperatures might not be for everyone, but as Morgan said, “even through the winter it beats riding the T.”
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