By Tyler Dewey, CLS Marketing Writer
One of the best things about working for UCSF Transportation is the diverse range of ways we support navigating the city. Of course, our Parking and Shuttle teams do incredible work supporting drivers and transit riders, but Transportation also supports biking, walking, scooting, and more!
On my first day at UCSF, I signed up for a bike permit, which included access to our secure bike rooms. I’ve now been a year-round, everyday bike commuter for years. Yes, winter brings cooler temps, early sunsets, and more rain. Some days are a challenge, but with a few tweaks, riding through the winter can be comfortable, safe, and fun.
Dress to Impress (and Stay Warm)
My winter commute prep begins before I get on my bike. Gloves, our UCSF Transportation scarf, and layers are a must. For maximum warmth, I would love to wear mittens, but mittens make it harder to squeeze my brakes. On really cold days, I may double-layer a thick wool glove over a thin cotton glove. Luckily, this type of cold is rare. I am bald (sadly), so I always wear a hat under my helmet. I also recommend boots and thicker socks, if possible. Once I get going, my core stays warm, but my hands and feet are harder to keep cozy. When it rains, I recommend keeping a pair of dry socks in your desk locker or bag. Being able to change out of wet socks is a game-changer!
With my fit selected, I next prep my bike. In the winter, that means a basket (to shed or store extra layers like my rain poncho), fenders (to keep the rain off my legs), and lights (the most important).
Ride Bright
Once we “fall back,” evening commutes are dark. The key is to be seen and to see. This includes brightening both the bike and yourself! California law requires the use of a front light and reflectors when riding at night. Some “blinky” lights are great for being seen. More powerful, steady lights are great for lighting up the road ahead. I have a “dynamo” front light that uses batteries inside the front hub to generate enough electricity to power the front light. However, if I am riding somewhere without many streetlights, I may add a battery light to my handlebars.
Any local bike shop will have a variety of options for handlebar-mounted lights. I recommend USB-rechargeable versions for longevity. Standard lights help provide visibility on the road, but I also recommend personalizing your ride to make it more enjoyable and unique. I have a front white reflector shaped like a little onigiri rice ball. I also bought rolls of white and red reflective tape and cut them into fun shapes. Thus far, I have a Star Wars Rebel Alliance, a Mad Max reference, hearts, and designs from my favorite books.
I like placing lights or reflectors at various heights: reflective ankle bands or pedal reflectors, a rear light near the saddle, and reflective elements on your helmet or bag. to create a clear "human on a bike" outline. You can test the effectiveness of your visibility by having someone take a photo of your lights and reflectors at night with the flash on. The flash will activate the reflectors and allow you to verify that all the reflectors and lights are visible.
With my fit on point and my bike blazing bright, I am ready to roll day or night, rain or shine.
With a little preparation—layers, lights, fenders, and a calmer route—winter bike commuting to UCSF is safe, easy, and enjoyable. If you spot me out there, give a wave!
