How I Set Up My Winter Cycling Training Space
Chris Opie - 23 Sept 2025
Here’s how I prepare my winter cycling setup. It’s not a huge change from summer, but a few smart tweaks make training smoother, cleaner, and more enjoyable even in a small space.
Switching Bike Order for Winter Rides
The first thing I do is change the order of the bikes on the rack. In winter I ride different bikes more often, so it makes sense to have them in easy reach. Last year I added mudguards for the first time and it made a massive difference to how clean and dry I stayed on wet rides. Because of that my gravel bike with mudguards is now the most accessible bike to grab and go. For me, it’s the ultimate winter bike storage hack.
Keeping the Indoor Trainer Ready
Another change I’m making this year is keeping my indoor trainer setup permanently ready. Whether it’s for me or for someone else in the house, it means there’s always a bike ready for a turbo session. If the weather stops you from heading out, you can just adjust the saddle height, clip in, and get the workout done. No excuses, no setup faff, just consistent indoor training sessions that make winter miles easier.
Adding Strength Work to the Routine
Winter isn’t just about cycling mileage. Over the past few years I’ve added more gym work to my routine and it’s been a game changer. Having a dedicated spot in the training area for weights means I can easily fit in strength sessions around three times a week. It keeps the routine consistent and makes the most of limited space, creating a combined home gym and cycling setup that works year round.
Making Space Work Harder with Stashed
The biggest upgrade to my training area has been the Stashed SpaceRail. Before, bikes lived on the floor, took up room, and blocked access. With the SpaceRail I can angle the bikes on hooks and slide them around to create space exactly where it’s needed. In real terms it’s gained us over a meter of usable floor space, probably more. For a small training room that’s been transformational.
If you’re looking for garage bike storage solutions, the SpaceRail is one of the best ways to maximise every inch of space. It’s not just about neatness, it’s about making the room work better for training.
Keeping Bikes and Space Clean
Another key part of winter cycling is keeping the bikes clean before they come inside. I always leave a hose ready outside so I can give the bike a quick rinse after a muddy ride. It doesn’t need to be a full deep clean every time, but rinsing and then drying with a towel keeps things tidy and stops dirt being dragged indoors.
Creating the Right Atmosphere
Training isn’t just about equipment, it’s about motivation too. Good lighting makes a huge difference and I always like having music while I train. Headphones usually work best so I don’t disturb the neighbours, but sometimes a small speaker is enough. I also keep a few motivating photos around the cabin to remind me of the goals ahead. Together these little details make the space somewhere I actually want to spend time in.
A Shared Space That Works for Everyone
What I love most is that the room works for all of us. The bikes are easy to move, the gym kit is central, and there’s even a corner set up for my wife’s pottery. Every inch of space gets used properly and nothing feels cluttered. It proves you don’t need a huge garage. Even with a small space bike storage system you can create a flexible, inspiring training area.
Final Thoughts
Winter training doesn’t have to feel cramped or complicated. With a little planning, the right bike accessible, an indoor trainer ready to go, space for gym work, a quick clean routine, and a storage system that keeps everything flexible, you can make even the smallest room work harder.
Life stored better really does mean training better.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you set up a winter cycling training space at home?
Start by choosing the right bike for winter, ideally with mudguards, and make it the most accessible on your storage system. Keep an indoor trainer permanently ready, add space for weights or strength training, and make sure your bikes are stored clean and dry. Good lighting, music, and a motivating setup make a big difference too.
What is the best way to store bikes in small spaces during winter?
A sliding system like the Stashed SpaceRail is ideal. It lets you angle bikes on hooks, move them aside when not in use, and frees up over a meter of usable floor space. This means you can store multiple bikes neatly, even in compact garages or training rooms.
How do I keep my bike clean in winter?
Leave a hose and towel ready by the door so you can give your bike a quick rinse before bringing it inside. It doesn’t need a full deep clean every time, but removing mud and water helps protect your components and keeps your training space tidy.
Do I need a home gym for winter cycling training?
You don’t need a full setup, but adding a small space for weights or bodyweight exercises can massively improve strength and overall performance. Even a simple routine, three times a week, can help you ride stronger and avoid injury.
