For some people cycling and winter don’t mix. It’s generally cold and wet and if it snows like recently it can make it difficult and tiring. However, it can still be the best way to get around, even in these long dark months of winter, especially when public transport grinds to a halt and the roads are covered in snow.

And I believe it’s also the safest form of transport dispute frost and snow. How many of you have switched to the car instead of the bike in the past week, because it made you feel safer?

In my opinion you would have been safer sticking to the bike. Hear me out on this one. I have some reasons why I think we increase the risk of accidents in snow and ice by getting in the car.

Firstly, if we all switch to the car, we increase the risks of accidents, with more cars on the road.

Secondly, you’re not as careful on four wheels as on two, because you don’t need to balance. You feel invincible right up until that awful moment that innocent wet-looking road turns out to be black ice and you have a hunk of metal to control.

Thirdly, falling off a bike when you are already cycling cautiously shouldn’t do too much harm to you or those around you, but crashing the car in icy conditions could be very bad.

If you’re lucky, you won’t hurt yourself or others but the repair to your car will cost a lot more than a repair to a bike.

If you have switched to your car this winter, consider switching back, even in the snow!

Honestly, I’m not mad. All that is needed is a little preparation and practice and it can even become enjoyable.

Obviously your road bike will be useless in snow and ice but this is where the mountain bike comes into its own.

Thick knobbly tires, either slightly deflated or pumped up to maximum pressure, depending on your preference, should keep you upright and in control.

If you have the cash and are serious about your snow riding get some snow tyres. They have metal studs in them and give you serious grip even on ice.

Once your bike is equipped you need to wrap up warm, but if you’re going some distance, don’t wrap yourself up like an Eskimo. You need to vent moisture or else you will get wind chill.

The hardest part of winter cycling is keeping your fingers and toes warm.

Fingers are easy. Buy the best gloves money can buy; ask your local bike shop about triple-layered gloves and look out for the type that look like a lobster’s claw. They bunch your fingers together, trapping the air to compensate for their lack of fat.

Toes are difficult, some people swear by overshoes, they make you look like the BFG but apparently do the job well, but on a 60-mile cycle even overshoes will let the cold in. Yes, toes are difficult, wear an extra pair of socks if your shoes will allow it or add an extra layer with a liner.

Finally, after taking care of yourself and having fun, don’t forget to look after your bike as well. Give it a clean and oil after a snow attack, as the rust will inevitably set in otherwise.

Happy snow riding everyone.