How to Prep Your Bike for Cold Weather Riding

Olle Spegel
Sep 28, 2025
2 min read

For some riders in La Crosse, the biking season ends when the leaves drop. But others keep pedaling through late fall and even into winter. If you’re planning to extend your season, your gear isn’t the only thing that needs adjusting—your bike does too. Cold weather brings new challenges: slick leaves, road salt, shorter days, and frozen components.

Here’s how to prep your bike for cold weather so it stays safe, reliable, and fun to ride.

Tires and Traction Matter More in the Cold

Cooler temps and wet roads reduce grip. Swapping to wider tires with deeper tread helps with stability on slippery surfaces. For riders who stick to snow and slush, fat tires—like those on Addmotor e-trikes—are unbeatable.

Road riders: consider all-weather tires.
Commuters: add puncture-resistant options.
Trail riders: a knobby tread helps cut through wet leaves and mud.

We can help you pick the right setup on our sales floor.

Brakes Need Extra Attention

Cold weather accelerates brake wear, especially in hilly La Crosse terrain. Rim brakes lose power when wet, and disc brakes need clean pads to grab effectively.

Check pad thickness weekly.
Tighten stretched cables.
Clean rims and rotors after wet rides.

If your brakes feel soft or squeaky, it’s time for a tune-up.

Protect the Chain and Drivetrain

Cold weather means more grit, salt, and moisture—all enemies of your drivetrain. Chains wear faster in the fall and winter unless you stay on top of maintenance.

Wipe your chain after every ride.
Switch to a heavier “wet lube” that resists moisture.
Check for chain stretch monthly.

If shifting feels rough or noisy, it may be time for a new chain before winter riding really starts.

Stay Visible in Shorter Days

With the sun setting earlier, visibility is critical. Even afternoon rides can end in the dark.

Invest in a bright front light and a rear blinky.
Rechargeable models work well with e-bikes.
Add reflective gear for extra safety.

We carry lights that mount securely to e-bikes, trikes, and standard rides. Ask us to show you what we use ourselves.

E-Bike Battery Care in Cold Weather

For Aventon, Velotric, and Addmotor e-bike riders, remember that battery performance drops in cooler temps. A ride that normally lasts 50 miles might only get 40 in the cold.

Charge batteries indoors at room temperature.
Store batteries inside when not riding.
Don’t leave your e-bike outside overnight in freezing conditions.

We offer battery diagnostics and replacements if your range isn’t what it used to be.

Stop by Wrench & Roll Bikes in La Crosse for cold-weather gear, lighting, and a seasonal tune-up. We’ll get your bike ready for late fall rides and make sure you’re prepared when the temperatures drop.