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The Senior E-biker Podcast: Episode 13

E-Biking Through the Winter

Welcome back to the Senior E-Biker Podcast! I'm your host, Scott and if you are interested in e-biking, especially if you are 55+ and want to stay active, well this is the right podcast for you and I’m your huckleberry.

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I'm so glad you're joining me today. It’s early November 2025 here in sunny Las Cruces, New Mexico. The pecans are dropping, the chile roasting is done, and those morning temperatures are finally starting to feel a little bit crisp.

As we move toward the end of the year, I want to take a moment to celebrate everything we've accomplished on our e-bikes. But more practically, I want to share my hard-earned tips for staying comfortable and safe on the saddle as the weather cools. Then, we’re going to get inspired and start planning our next big two-wheeled adventure!

Riding Comfortable as the Weather Cools: The Art of Layering

I love fall and winter riding here in Southern New Mexico. The desert air is clean, and the views of the Organ Mountains are crystal clear. However, even Las Cruces can throw some chilly mornings and evenings our way. Where you live, it’s probably even colder so staying warm is critical.

My number one strategy for cold weather riding is the well-worn concept of dressing in layers. But let’s get specific about which layers work best for e-biking:

1. The Base Layer (Moisture Wicking is Key!)

This is the layer right next to your skin, and it is the most important. Sweat is what makes you cold.

• Fabric: Look for a synthetic material or merino wool. I prefer thin, long-sleeve athletic tops.
   
  I prefer the Minus33 Merino Wool Pullover 
  (https://amzn.to/4hIh1LC) It's expensive but it works and it will last.) 
• The Goal: It needs to wick moisture away from your skin so you stay dry, even after that initial warm-up push. Never wear cotton next to your skin; once it gets damp, it stays damp and chills you immediately.

2. The Mid-Layer (Insulation)

This layer is meant to trap heat.

• Fabric: A lightweight fleece, a thermal cycling jersey, or even a puffy vest works great. I like the RISESBIK Men's Thermal Fleece (https://amzn.to/47PxNVL).
• The Goal: To insulate and keep the warmth your body is generating trapped close to you. Vests are wonderful because they keep your core warm while allowing your arms mobility.

3. The Outer Layer (The Wind Barrier)

This is your protective shell against the elements.

• Fabric: A thin, windproof, and water-resistant jacket. It doesn't need to be thick, just effective against the wind. I wear the Bikewa Men's Cycling Rain Jacket (https://amzn.to/47nLv25).
• The Goal: To break the windchill. On an e-bike, even riding at 15 or 20 miles per hour, that wind creates a significant chill factor. A lightweight shell will make a 45 degree morning feel much closer to 65 degrees. You can easily unzip it or tie it around your waist if you get too warm.

A quick note about riding gear in general. Buying this sort of gear from a bicycle shop or bicycle retailer may end up costing you more money than if you just get it at a typical outdoor sports or recreation store. Just an FYI.

Don't Forget the Extremities: Hands, Feet, Ears and Head

Now, let's talk about the parts that get cold first: your hands, feet, ears and head.

• Hands: Skip the thin fashion gloves. You need cycling-specific windproof gloves. For really cold days, I swear by a pair of slightly thicker, insulated gloves with a longer cuff that tucks neatly under my jacket sleeve. Remember, your fingers aren't moving much, so they need extra protection.
   
  If you are going to spend money - spend it here. Good gloves are not inexpensive so be prepared to pay here and save money elsewhere. 
  I like the Giro 100 Proof Adult Unisex Winter Cycling Gloves (https://amzn.to/3JsWRZs).
• Feet: This is tricky. You don't want thick socks that cut off circulation. Instead, try wool or synthetic cycling socks and, if you are really serious about cold-weather riding, consider shoe covers (or "booties"). They are simple neoprene covers that go over your cycling shoes and work wonders at keeping the wind and chill out. I prefer the GripGrab Winter Thermal Merino Wool Cycling Socks (https://amzn.to/4okFYPE).
• Ears: Good old fashioned ear-muffs work great or get a Balaclava. I like the one from ROCKBROS. (https://amzn.to/47BHx4Q)
• Head: A lot of heat escapes through your head. A thin, thermal beanie or skull cap that fits comfortably under your helmet is a must. Here again the balaclava can do two jobs at once - keeping your ears warm and your head warm too. If you wear a balaclava GXCROR, you don't need head protection - but if you do not like to wear balaclavas, then a good alternative is the GXCROR Winter Helmet Liner Skull Cap (https://amzn.to/4qMSxFh).

Safety and Shorter Days

And one final note on preparedness: With shorter daylight hours, you have to prioritize safety. Always, always check your battery levels and make sure your headlights and taillights are charged and functioning. I recommend bright, pulsing tail lights. Visibility is your best defense against the fading light.
 
I just recently switched to the NiteRider Vmax+ and it's superior to anything else I've tested for a rearward facing, blinking (or not) tail light. (https://amzn.to/4hJk5Hp).

I also use the NiteRider Lumina Micro 900 Front Bike Light LED (https://amzn.to/47CcKou)

Maintaining Motivation and Finding Your Next Ride

It takes a little extra push to get out the door when it’s chilly, but remember why you started: freedom and fun.

• Make it Social: Arrange to meet a friend. It’s much harder to bail on a ride when someone is waiting for you!
• Change the Goal: Don't focus on training. Focus on the simple pleasure of movement and the therapeutic benefit of fresh air. It’s okay to turn the motor assist to "Turbo" if you need the boost to get motivated! The goal in the late fall and winter is consistency. (Almost once every week I take a ride for what I call “motion and relaxation.” Usually the day after I feel motivated to push a little further.)

Call to Action: Celebrate Your Year and Set New Targets

As 2025 winds down, I encourage you to pause and appreciate your progress.

First, I want to hear from you! What was your biggest e-bike accomplishment this year? Did you ride more than ever before? Did you finally conquer that hill? Please send me an email to seniorebikerpodcast@gmail.com and share your win!
 
My win this year was breaking the 20 mile mark in one contiguous ride. It may not sound like much to some of you but given the fact that 18 mont...