Cycling Weather Index
Weather index for activity planning
What is the Cycling Weather Index?
The Cycling Index evaluates specific weather conditions that significantly impact the safety, comfort, and performance of cyclists on roads and trails. This index carefully considers air temperature (extremes can cause hypothermia or hyperthermia), wind speed and direction (strong winds can make cycling dangerous and exhausting, especially on open routes), precipitation (which reduces tire grip, visibility, and increases accident risk), and visibility (crucial for traffic safety and navigation). Ideal conditions allow cyclists to enjoy safe and pleasant rides, while adverse conditions may require specialized equipment, alternative routes, or postponement of rides to avoid safety risks and extreme discomfort.
How is the Cycling Weather Index calculated?
- Temperature: Temperatures between 15-25°C (59-77°F) are ideal and increase the index. Temperatures below 5°C (41°F) or above 30°C (86°F) reduce the index due to discomfort and risk of hypothermia or hyperthermia during physical exertion.
- Wind speed and direction: Light winds (up to 15 km/h or 9 mph) are ideal and increase the index. Strong winds (above 30 km/h or 18 mph) drastically reduce the index, making cycling dangerous, exhausting, and difficult to control, especially on open routes.
- Precipitation: Rain significantly reduces the index, as it decreases tire grip, reduces visibility, increases hydroplaning risk, and makes cycling dangerous. Dry conditions score highest.
- Visibility: High visibility (above 10 km or 6 miles) increases the index, allowing traffic safety and navigation. Low visibility (below 1 km or 0.6 miles) drastically reduces the index and increases accident risk.
Understanding the Cycling Weather Index Scale (0-10)
0-2
Very Poor - Dangerous
3-4
Poor - Challenging
5-6
Fair - Possible
7-8
Good - Comfortable
9-10
Excellent - Perfect
Cycling Weather Index: Top Cities Comparison
Compare Cycling Weather Index values for the most popular cities ranked by search volume
| City | Country | Today | Tomorrow | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | Japan | 10 / 10 Excellent | 3 / 10 Poor | -7 |
| Osaka | Japan | 8 / 10 Excellent | 3 / 10 Poor | -5 |
| Kyoto | Japan | 8 / 10 Excellent | 4 / 10 Fair | -4 |
| London | United Kingdom | 10 / 10 Excellent | 8 / 10 Excellent | -2 |
| Rome | Italy | 8 / 10 Excellent | 5 / 10 Fair | -3 |
| Paris | France | 9 / 10 Excellent | 7 / 10 Good | -2 |
| Delhi | India | 8 / 10 Excellent | 9 / 10 Excellent | +1 |
| Florence | Italy | 10 / 10 Excellent | 6 / 10 Good | -4 |
| New York City | United States | 9 / 10 Excellent | 7 / 10 Good | -2 |
| Hanoi | Vietnam | 10 / 10 Excellent | 8 / 10 Excellent | -2 |
Cycling Weather Index: Tips & Recommendations
- Always wear safety equipment
- Adjust route to avoid strong winds
- Use lights and reflective clothing in low visibility
- Bring water and sunscreen
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