Toronto’s first major snowfall of 2010 may be on the roads, but that doesn’t mean cyclists must pack it in for the winter. With the right clothing, gear and techniques, even the most casual cyclist can keep rolling all year round.

You may look a bit funny. Your friends and colleagues will call you crazy. But it’s warmer than walking, and best of all you won’t feel guilty when you reach for seconds from the holiday dessert tray.

Herein, everything you need to know about winter cycling in the GTA.

Winter riding safety tips

Courtesy of Shah Mohamed, bike educator at the Evergreen Brickworks, where he teaches workshops on safe winter cycling

• Ride slower

Give yourself up to double the time to get to your destination. A slower, more controlled pace gives you more ability to react and recover. You should also allow more space between you and other cyclists.

• Anticipate stops

Braking will be more difficult in icy conditions, especially if snow cakes on to your wheels or brake pads. Anticipate stops by gradually reducing speed and giving yourself twice the stopping distance than you normally would.

• Be aware

You should be checking over your shoulders two to three times more often when riding in the winter, and in general should be more aware of your surroundings.

Reduce tire pressure

Drop tire pressure by 10 to 20 PSI (pounds per square inch). “It does slow you down,” Mohamed says. “But it gives you way better traction.”

• Turn safely

In particularly snowy or icy conditions, lateral force will not take as strongly to the road, so make sure to slow down and turn with as much of your weight on top of the bike as possible (as opposed to simply leaning into turns). For left turns in busy intersections, Mohamed recommends getting off the bike and crossing by foot.

• Know the conditions

Pavement conditions will change day to day — depending on factors like snow, rain and frost— and will change how you ride. Have a look at the weather before you go out and be prepared to adjust your speed and travel time.

For your bike

• Tires: Depending on your preference and where you ride, you may want to change the style of tire you use in winter, but there is little consensus among cyclists. Steel-studded tires are good for digging into snow and ice, but many cyclists argue they are rarely necessary for riding on city streets. Some cyclists prefer a wider tire with thicker tread in the winter months to better grip the road and provide more balance; others prefer to keep narrower slicks, which cut through snow and slush. Experiment to find out what works best for you.

• Full fenders for both your front and back wheels will block snow and water from whipping up at you.

• Double the number of lights and reflectors on your bike. It’s darker earlier and drivers’ overall visibility is down.

• Be more diligent with cleaning and lubing your moving parts. Snow, slush and salt will conspire to wear down your bike’s most important parts. You should clean and lube your drive chain and derailleur as often as possible and after any particularly dirty ride. Be sure to use a low-temperature grease (-10C or better).

For serious protection, you may want to consider installing an enclosing case around your chain and derailleur.

• Brakes: Disc brakes will work better than rim brakes if you want to fully winterize your bike. Otherwise, clean your brakes after each ride and gently squeeze them every so often when riding to prevent icing.

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Keep your lock’s keyhole oiled to prevent freezing. Carry a lighter in case it does.

• Winter tuneup: Bike shops like Urbane Cyclist and The Bike Joint can help you winterize your bike with a specific winter tuneup, which may involve swapping in fresh brake and shifter cables or installing a Teflon liner.

• Or get a winter beater. Many year-round riders like to use an inexpensive “beater” in the winter months so their favoured bike isn’t ruined by the tougher conditions. The Community Bicycle Network, Bike Pirates and Set Me Free, among others, sell used and refurbished bikes for less than $200.

For your body

• Wool socks to keep your feet warm and dry

• Waterproof shoe covers or “booties” to keep snow and water from getting into your shoes

• Layered tights or long-johns that can wick sweat

Wind-breaking or waterproof jacket and pants

If your outerwear does not already have reflective markings, get a fluorescent safety vest or reflective stickers

• “Lobster claw” mitts to keep your fingers warm while still allowing enough dexterity to maneuver gears and hand brakes

• Balaclava or facemask: You might look freaky, but it’s essential to stay warm

• Ski goggles are rarely necessary, but come in handy on days with blowing snow.

Items are available at most bicycle shops, some sporting goods stores and Mountain Equipment Co-op.

For the third season in a row the city will plow and maintain the Martin Goodman Trail along the waterfront, from the Humber River to Ashbridge’s Bay, through the winter. If the trail has not been cleared or you would like to report uncleared bike lanes anywhere in the city, call 311.

For more tips on winter cycling safety, comfort and maintenance see the city’s cold-weather cycling guide at Toronto.ca.