Frigid temps and frosty conditions don’t mean you have to let your two-wheeler hibernate until spring. Sarah Zoey Sturm, a professional off-road cyclist who lives in Durango and frequently trains during the mountain town’s snowiest season, says the tricks to riding during winter are tweaking your gear and staying alert on the road.

1. No matter the bike—mountain, gravel, road, or hybrid—upping traction where the rubber meets the icy road will help you steer clear of slips and spills. Let out air from fully inflated tires until “they feel like a soft orange,” Sturm says. The slight deflation provides a larger surface area for gripping the ground.

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2. Spot a patch of ice ahead? Brake before your front tire comes into contact with the slippery surface. If you’re already in the spill zone, “you can decelerate moderately—just no sudden movements” such as slamming on the brakes or turning too quickly, Sturm says.

3. While a blanket of fresh powder beckons skiers and snowboarders to play outside, road cyclists should keep their wheels locked up for the day. “It’s gonna piss off drivers and put your life at risk,” Sturm says. If you must hit the streets, increase your visibility by wearing bright colors and turning your bike lights on.

4. If a pair of insulated neoprene riding shoes, which can cost as much as $200, is outside your budget, keep your toes warm and the wind off your feet by sliding plastic liners (fresh dog poop bags work surprisingly well) over your socks before putting on your cleats.

5. Dehydration is a threat even in winter, so don’t leave your emotional support water bottle at home. To prevent H₂O from freezing on the go, Sturm recommends filling your cup with warm water and adding a packet of electrolytes. The salt content of the mix and higher starting temp will stave off freezing.

Read More: How to Ride Your Mountain Bike in the Snow This Winter