1) Prepare your bike for winter riding. For example, run wider tires or studded tires with lower tire pressure. If you are thinking about a second, winter bike, get a cyclocross bike. They can run really wide, very nobby tires and can be ridden off-road, which is a whole lot warmer than road rides.
2) Apparel is key. Think a) Base Layer - This is designed to wick the moisture away from your body. A wet base layer will make you even colder than no base layer. Also, companies such as Craft make these in different levels based on how cold and how long you will be out. b) Thermal Layer - This is what keeps you warm on top of the base layer. This is based solely on how cold it is. c) Element layer will keep the wind and weather outside your body. This is so incredibly important because wind chill makes a huge difference.
3) Winter riding shoes are a killer idea since they are typically a bit bigger to allow thick socks, are weather resistant and can take a beating. Much more pleasant to destroy winter clothing than you shiny riding shoes that you race in.
4) If possible, try to change your work schedule so you can ride mid-day. Light becomes an issue as the days are getting shorter.
5) Here is a good rule of thumb..."there is no such thing as a cold riding day, just poorly chosen apparel.
Happy Winter Riding!!!
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