How to Continue Riding in Winter (and Enjoy It): Advice from Manon Llo – Le Col

How to Continue Riding in Winter (and Actually Enjoy It)

Advice from Ambassador Manon Lloyd

Winter and cycling have a complicated relationship. I’ll be honest I used to dread winter riding. The cold mornings, the rain, the endless cleaning of bikes… it’s not exactly glamorous, is it?

But over time, I’ve learned to see winter as one of the most rewarding seasons to ride. There’s a quiet satisfaction in getting out there when most people stay indoors.

Here’s how I keep riding when the temperature drops and how you can too.

Mix Indoor and Outdoor Training

Some days are made for crisp outdoor miles. Others call for the turbo.

I like to balance both. When it’s dry and bright, I’ll head outside for a few hours and keep it steady. When it’s dark and raining sideways, let’s be honest no one really wants to be riding outside. Luckily we now have the option of riding indoors and stay dry, I will often jump on Rouvy for a quick 45 minutes to an hour ride with some structured intervals thrown in there too.

Bike selfie of five cyclists on a country road.

Dress for the Ride

Getting your clothing right is half the battle. Layers are your best friend.

A good base layer is non-negotiable for me, in the winter I use the Le Col Deep Winter Base Layer, then add the Pro Aqua Zero Jersey, and finish with Waterproof Overshoes for warm, dry feet. Gloves and a neck warmer they make even the coldest morning feel manageable.

Once you’re comfortable, the weather stops being a reason not to ride.

Motivation Comes and Goes Ride Anyway

Even the most dedicated riders have days when they’d rather stay on the sofa. So don’t go thinking you’re on your own when motivation gets a bit low in the winter.

I aim for three quality sessions a week, whether inside, out or the gym. Some weeks it’s more, some less and that’s okay. Having a friend to ride with helps too. If someone’s waiting for you, you’re definitely not cancelling….

Don’t Forget the Mudguards

It might not sound glamorous, and they can be a bit of a hassle but mudguards are the unsung heroes of winter riding. They keep the spray off your back, protect your kit, and maybe most importantly keep your riding mates happy.

If you’re riding through country lanes or training with others, fitting a good set of full-length guards makes a world of difference. Your bike stays cleaner, your legs stay drier.

Trust me, once you’ve used them, you’ll never go back.

Manon unzipping jersey with turtle neck base layer underneath.

Remember Why You Ride

Winter riding strips everything back to the basics no race numbers, no pressure, just you and your bike. Those quiet miles make spring feel effortless.

You come out of winter stronger, both physically and mentally. And when everyone else is finding their legs again, you’re already rolling.

Final Thoughts...

Winter doesn’t have to mean hanging up the bike. With a mix of indoor sessions, good layers, and a flexible mindset, it can become one of the most rewarding times of the year.