Headwind? Keep Road Cycling Fun

Headwind? How to keep cycling enjoyable when it’s windy

One look at the trees is usually enough to know what kind of ride it is going to be. The branches are moving, the flags are stretched out and as soon as you turn out of your street, you know for sure: headwind. Especially in autumn, wind is simply part of the ride. Sometimes it pushes you along from behind. Sometimes it seems to follow you around and stay right in your face. Luckily, a headwind does not have to ruin your ride. With a smart route, the right pace and the right clothing, you can still enjoy your time on the bike.

Start into the headwind

If you can choose which direction to ride, check the wind direction before you set off. It often feels better to ride into the headwind during the first part of your route. Your legs are still fresh and, with a bit of luck, you will have the wind behind you on the way home. Especially on longer rides, that is a nice thought. Put in the work first, then enjoy an easier ride back.

Forget about your average speed

Maybe you normally cruise along at 28 km/h, but today your speed refuses to go much above 23. That does not suddenly mean you are having a bad day on the bike. Riding into a headwind simply requires more effort. So do not force yourself to maintain your usual speed. Shift into an easier gear, find a comfortable rhythm and focus on how the effort feels. Not every kilometre has to be fast to be a good one. That applies to every ride, but on a windy day it can be worth reminding yourself.

Make things a little easier

You do not have to turn yourself into a time trial rider, but a slightly more compact riding position can help. Get a little lower and keep your elbows closer to your body to reduce how much wind you catch. Riding with others? Headwinds instantly become a little more enjoyable. The rider at the front takes most of the wind, so swap positions regularly and share the work. Your route can make a difference too. Roads through trees or built-up areas often feel much more comfortable than kilometres of completely exposed countryside. In strong crosswinds, take extra care when moving from a sheltered section into an open area.

Dress for the wind

Wind does not just make an autumn ride harder. It can also cool you down quickly. On milder days, a cycling gilet is a useful extra layer. It protects your upper body from the wind without feeling as warm as a full jacket. If it gets colder or the wind picks up, a windproof cycling jacket gives you more protection. Wear it over your jersey or combine it with other layers as temperatures drop. These are especially useful pieces in autumn, when conditions can change quickly during a ride and an extra layer can easily be packed into a rear pocket.

What if it is really windy?

A little wind is part of autumn riding. Strong gusts and heavy crosswinds are a different story. Keep a firm grip on the handlebars, give yourself enough space and reduce your speed when needed. And sometimes choosing a shorter or more sheltered route is simply the better option. You do not have to beat every wind forecast.

Tailwind

Headwinds will probably never become your favourite part of cycling. But with a smart route, a comfortable pace and clothing that protects you from the wind, they do not have to spoil your ride either. And eventually, there is always that moment when you turn around: tailwind.