18 ways to keep your motivation high this winter - mix up your riding with these top tips

Braving the cold can be satisfying and fun - if you’re in need of a little inspiration, here’s how to keep your riding interesting this winter

Male cyclist riding outside during winter
(Image credit: Future)

Winter riding need not be a chore. The weather conditions may not be ideal for long hours in the saddle, but there’s always a reason to get outside – or into the pain cave – and get pedalling. We’ve compiled 18 varied, affordable ideas to inspire you to keep riding while the wet, grimy roads remain less than enticing – easily enough to carry you through to spring! 

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Chris Marshall-Bell

A freelance sports journalist and podcaster, you'll mostly find Chris's byline attached to news scoops, profile interviews and long reads across a variety of different publications. He has been writing regularly for Cycling Weekly since 2013. In 2024 he released a seven-part podcast documentary, Ghost in the Machine, about motor doping in cycling.

Previously a ski, hiking and cycling guide in the Canadian Rockies and Spanish Pyrenees, he almost certainly holds the record for the most number of interviews conducted from snowy mountains. He lives in Valencia, Spain.