Winter Bike to Work Day nothing special for Saskatoon's Jeff Hehn

Today is International Winter Bike to Work Day, but for Saskatoon's Jeff Hehn, his bike ride this morning was just another trip to the office.

Hehn says he's been commuting to work on his bike for a decade, including during the coldest months of the year.

"I think at that time, ten years ago, there were a lot less people riding in the winter and, yeah, you stood out a lot more," said Hehn during an interview on Saskatoon Morning. "Now you see quite a few more people doing it."

It's super hard on the equipment, so using a really nice bike is not really advisable.- Jeff Hehn

Hehn said he started cycling to work out of necessity because his wife needed their shared car for work.

The biggest obstacle budding winter bikers need to overcome is their initial fear of the cold and dark mornings, said Hehn.

"That's what scares them, and really once you get out there and get going it's no different," he said.

To protect his face from the cold Hehn wears a balaclava, and keeps a pair goggles handy, although he said he doesn't use them very often. Instead of a parka, he wears a light wool under-layer and a windbreaker.

Studded tires give you a little more confidence...- Jeff Hehn

"Certainly it takes some time to figure out what layers to wear in what conditions and most people tend to overdress to start with," said Hehn.

As for what bike to use, Hehn suggested going with an inexpensive mountain bike.

"It's super hard on the equipment, so using a really nice bike is not really advisable," said Hehn.

Studded tires are another must-have accessory for Hehn. He said they are especially helpful when riding in icier conditions.

"Studded tires give you a little more confidence on some of those surfaces."