CYCLING strengthens the heart and lungs, burns fat and helps maintain muscle mass.
But heading out on a bitter winter’s day could leave you feeling like death warmed up if you don’t have the right gear.
I’ve tested out some of the latest equipment to help you get on your bike, no matter what the weather.
BIKE
WITH its sleek, black steel frame and colourful trim, the Quella Nero Classic commuter bike is certainly visually appealing, but does it have the pedal power to get me from A to B on a chilly day?
The answer is a resounding yes.
I was amazed at how light this bike is, making it perfect for a tough climb.
The classic version is single speed but still suited to most urban terrains.
And the slimline saddle is comfy, too
It’s also compatible with racks, bottle cages and mudguards.
JACKET
A GOOD jacket is essential to shield you from the howling wind and driving rain, and the Boardman range at Halfords is a smart option for both practicality and price.
I tried the Boardman ladies’ windproof removable sleeve jacket.
It was comfortingly warm and in the summer it can be easily converted into a gilet.
With four pockets, there are plenty of options for storing your keys, and those odds and ends for work.
I really appreciated the taped seams that both keep you dry and insulate you from the cold.
And the reflective material made me feel safer out and about as the nights drew in.
It’s suitable for both the winter and the summer months, so you can keep cycling all year round.
BAG
I DIDN’T realise how essential a good bag would be until I started cycling.
It’s not just handy for storing your lock and chain, you will need it to carry extra layers during winter.
I opted for Decathlon’s double pannier rack reflective bag from Argos.
Its 27-litre volume means there’s plenty of space to store your boots.
And it has lots of handy pockets for headphones and wallets.
The only downside is there are so many pockets that you might end up forgetting where you put your things.
The bag has two compartments, and reflective material for night-time visibility.
It can also be converted from a backpack to a saddlebag, which can be clamped to your saddle rail.
