Cycling in Hot Weather: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Riding in the heat? Preparation is everything

Long summer days, clear skies and dry roads – it’s the season many cyclists wait for all year. But riding in high temperatures comes with real risks if you’re not prepared. From heat exhaustion to dehydration, a lack of planning can turn your dream ride into a miserable (or even dangerous) one.

Here are the most common mistakes we see on the road during hot weather, and how to avoid them to stay safe, cool and comfortable.

1. Wearing too many layers

It may seem obvious, but many riders still overdress out of habit or uncertainty. You don’t need thermal protection when it’s 28°C outside. Adding “just in case” layers often leads to overheating, excessive sweating and even dehydration.

Stick to the essentials:

• Lightweight summer jersey (short- or long-sleeved)
• Breathable mesh base layer
• Summer bib shorts
• Light gloves and socks

Avoid:

• Tights, winter jackets, thermal base layers, overshoes or neck warmers. Store them away until the cooler months return.

2. Riding shirtless: Don’t do a ‘Cipo’

Tempted to ride bare-chested like Mario Cipollini in the 90s? Don’t. It might feel liberating, but it's a bad idea for your skin and your safety.

• Sunburn risk is huge
• Your skin is unprotected in case of a crash
• You lose the benefits of sweat-wicking fabrics

Instead, wear a technical summer jersey with a full-length zip for ventilation, and consider a lightweight cap or headband under your helmet for sun protection.

3. Removing your helmet during climbs

Even during slow ascents, your helmet should stay on. It’s a legal and life-saving piece of equipment, and also provides shade and protection from sunstroke.

To keep cool:

• Use a helmet with excellent ventilation
• Avoid aero helmets in summer
• If needed, take a break in the shade — don’t remove your helmet on the move

4. Ignoring water fountains

If you’re unfamiliar with the route, treat every public water fountain like gold. Even if your bottles aren’t empty, top them up when you can — and splash water on your neck, arms and thighs to regulate body temperature.

Just don’t soak yourself completely: wet clothes reduce breathability and cause discomfort. And in humid weather, excess moisture makes cooling down even harder.

5. Fixing mechanical issues in full sun

A roadside repair is never fun — but doing it under direct sunlight is even worse.

Flat tyre? Gear issue? Always look for shade before getting started. Ten minutes exposed on hot tarmac without airflow can be draining. Protect yourself and work smarter: shade equals energy saved.

6. Leaving your bike in direct sun

Quick coffee stop or photo break? Don’t park your bike in full sun. Even 15–20 minutes in direct heat can turn your saddle and bars into a burning hazard — and that’s just the surface.

Prolonged exposure can damage:

• Tyres (heat expansion)
• Cables and housing
• Lubricants and drivetrain components

Find a wall, a tree, or even some partial shade to protect your bike while you rest.

7. Choosing the wrong snacks

Summer heat transforms your jersey pocket into a mini oven. Some snacks simply don’t survive:

Avoid:

• Chocolate (melts)
• Ripe bananas (turn to mush)
• Syrupy bars or sticky dates
• Soft cookies (crumble and stick)
• Peanut butter sandwiches (sticky and dry)

Choose:

• Dried fruit that holds its shape
• Compact, non-sticky energy bars
• Nuts or savoury crackers
• Electrolyte tablets if you’re riding long and sweating heavily

Related: Essential gear for summer gravel riding

Final thoughts: the summer ride is yours to enjoy — if you respect the heat

Cycling in hot weather can be spectacular: longer days, better light, dry roads and a real sense of freedom. But the summer sun demands respect. Plan smart, dress light, hydrate often and listen to your body.

You don’t need to ride like a hero. You just need to ride wisely.

Keep reading:

• What to wear for high-temperature rides
• Our favourite summer gravel trips
• Bikepacking the wild Vicentina Coast

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