Handling High Winds When Riding a Bicycle

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Wind is part of cycling — especially where I live. I’ve ridden through West Texas headwinds that would stop most cyclists in their tracks. Here’s what I’ve learned about staying safe, staying upright, and sometimes knowing when to stay home.

Handling High Winds When Riding a Bicycle

I live in Lubbock, Texas — the third windiest city in America. And I ride a lot in Amarillo too, which tops the list as the windiest. Between those two places, I’ve learned how to ride in conditions most cyclists try to avoid.

I’m not exaggerating when I say I’ve battled headwinds that felt like trying to climb a hill that never ends. I’ve pedaled through gusts that pushed me sideways, across open farmland where there’s nothing to block the blast. I’ve finished rides with grit in my teeth and dust in my ears. And yes — I still love it.

But even I have my limits. When the wind hits 35 mph sustained — and I know that means 45 to 50 mph gusts — I don’t try to be a hero. I ride indoors. If the sky turns that deep West Texas brown from all the stirred-up dirt, I stay home. That kind of air isn’t good for your lungs, no matter how tough you think you are.

That said, wind doesn’t have to ruin your ride. With some preparation and a few smart adjustments, you can ride safely, build strength, and learn to embrace the wind — or at least ride through it with a grin instead of a grimace.

Why Wind Is So Tough on a Bicycle

• It fights you every inch of the way. A strong headwind can feel like a hill that never ends — you’ll work harder and go slower.
• Gusts can throw you around. Crosswinds can shove your front wheel or even blow you toward traffic if you’re not ready for them.
• Dust can be dangerous. Out here, the wind stirs up farmland dirt. It’s not just uncomfortable — it’s unhealthy to breathe.

How to Ride Smarter in High Winds

• ✅ Check the wind forecast before every ride. I don’t just check the speed — I look for direction, gusts, and sky color. If it says 35 mph or more, I move my ride indoors. You can’t fight a freight train.
• ✅ Adjust your route, not just your gear. If you can, ride out into a headwind and come back with a tailwind. Plan routes with trees, buildings, or canyons for shelter. On canyon rides near Amarillo, the landscape can work with you or against you — depending on which way the wind is blowing.
• ✅ Tuck in and lower your profile. Bend your elbows, keep your chest low, and stay relaxed. Don’t fight the wind — flow through it.
• ✅ Gear matters. I wear cooling arm and leg sleeves(links below to the ones I use) that keep the dust off my skin and help with sun and wind protection. (#ad) I also avoid deep rim wheels — they catch too much wind.
• ✅ Watch for road debris. I’ve seen cardboard, tumbleweeds, even irrigation pipe on the shoulder after a big gust. Wind doesn't just blow — it moves stuff.
• ✅ Don’t white-knuckle your bars. Stay firm but loose enough to correct if a gust hits. Keep your eyes ahead and anticipate sudden shifts.

Real Talk from a Wind-Tested Cyclist: I’ve spent decades riding in Lubbock and Amarillo — two of the windiest cities in America. I don’t recommend gear lightly. Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you buy something. I only share what I actually use or trust on the road.

Gear I Recommend for Windy Rides:
Cooling Arm Sleeves on Amazon & Cooling Leg Sleeves— They protect against dust, sun, and wind chill. 

When to Skip the Ride

This might be the most important advice I can give: sometimes the best choice is not to ride. I’ve trained hard, logged over 6,000 miles in one year, and I still bail when it’s too windy. If you’re riding into a wall of 40+ mph gusts or the air’s full of blowing dirt, you’re not tough — you’re smart for staying safe.

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• Smart Cycling Clothing: The Best Gear for Seniors Who Want to Ride Safer

FAQs: Riding in High Winds

Q: What wind speed is too dangerous to ride in?
A: Anything over 30 mph sustained or 40 mph gusts can be dangerous — especially in open areas or with strong crosswinds. I cut it off at 35 mph sustained.

Q: How do I know if the dust is too bad?
A: If the sky turns brown and you can taste the dirt, it’s too much. That stuff gets in your lungs, your gears, and your eyes.

Q: Should I train in the wind anyway?
A: Absolutely — within reason. Wind builds mental toughness and strength. I often say wind is the “West Texas hill,” because we don’t have many climbs, but the wind gives you resistance training every time.

Final Thoughts

Wind is just part of the cycling life out here — and I’ve learned to respect it without fearing it. It humbles you. It strengthens you. It teaches you when to push and when to pause.

If you want to keep riding strong in windy places, learn how to listen to the forecast, read the road, and know yourself. And when the wind is just too much — there’s no shame in spinning indoors and saving your lungs for another day.

🚴 Gear I Personally Use

• Renpho Smart Scale
  Lost 17 lbs since buying — motivating and full of great info.
  👉 See the One I Have
• Giro Fixture MIPS II Helmet
  My most important piece of gear — a must-have for every ride.
  👉 Lots of Colors
• Outdoor Cooling Arm Sleeves
  I wear these every ride to protect my skin from cancer.
  👉 Check Price
• Cosmos Cooling Leg Sleeves
  I had cancer cut off my leg — I refuse to have more problems and wear these now.
  👉 See Them
• Przewalski Bib Shorts
  I have multiple pairs — more comfortable and last longer.
  👉 See Them
• Premier Protein Shakes
  I drink one after every ride — low sugar, high protein.
  👉 Amazon Price

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