Fatbikes
Fat bikes with their 4' wide tires are the ultimate in winter commuting technology. You will be able to ride places you couldn't possibly ride with any other bike and the extremely low tire pressure will also make the bike more comfortable because the suspension of a normal bike usually freezes up at cold temperatures.
We sell 9Zero7 fatbikes. The company is a small bike company in Alaska that specializes in fat bikes and brings them to the next level of performance with light-wieght hydro-formed aluminum frames and forks. Visit their website at 907bikes.com or come in and check them out in person.
Winter Biking Equipment
You will see people riding their bikes to work or for recreation all winter in Saskatoon, and for good reason. With the right equipment it is good for your health, fun, convenient, and safe. This guide will help you get started on the path to becoming a year-round cyclist.
Your bike doesn't actually need much modification to be winterized. The tires are the biggest switch you will need to make. Studded tires will provide traction on ice and keep the bike upright. Studded tires are available for moutain bikes in both 26" and 29" sizes, and for hybrids or cyclo-cross bikes with the 700C wheel size. Beyond switching your tires, the other change to your bike is to use an oil based lube for the chain instead of the standard wax lube that most people use in the summer. This will protect the chain from rust.
Clothing is crucial to your comfort while riding in the winter. Your biggest enemy is the windchill factor because of your constant motion through the air so what works to keep your head, feet and hands on a winter walk, won't be warm enough for winter riding. But the winter jacket you wear walking will be too hot for riding in. Exposed skin will risk frost bite so everything must be covered. We sell winter cycling helmets, ski goggles, balaclavas, toques, gloves and mitts, jackets, pants, and even shoes that are suitable for winter riding.
Other factors to remember are that you will generally be riding in low light or night conditions so bike lights are a must. Remember that winter riding can be hard on your bike so if you have the option, use an older beater bike for the winter. The snow, ice, sand and salt on the roads will cause your bike parts to wear quicker and corrode or rust from the moisture and salt.