Icy challenge: Wismar cyclists conquer the A14 in winter!

Icy challenge: Wismar cyclists conquer the A14 in winter!

Amid icy temperatures and cold wind, the members of the Wismar regional group of the General German Bicycle Club (ADFC) set out to initiate an adventure tour on the last section of the A14. Today, January 18, 2026, five brave cyclists, led by the committed group leader and nurse Marie-Anne Schlaberg, set out from Jesendorf to the feeder road near Cambs, just 14 kilometers away. Despite the frigid conditions, which dropped to minus 15 degrees Celsius on December 20, 2009, the mood among the group was remarkably positive.

The starting shot was fired at 9 a.m. in front of the town hall of the Hanseatic city of Wismar. The cyclists first set off for a distance of around 20 kilometers via Lübow and Schimm before reaching the A14 entrance near Jesendorf. After a good 90-minute drive, they were finally able to reach the new A14 junction. In keeping with the wintry atmosphere, a senior from Wismar joined the group on his recumbent bike, while ADFC friends from Schwerin cycled in the opposite direction and a meeting was planned halfway. A master mechanic from Hohen Viecheln, who appeared in Santa Claus' outfit, took on the role of breakdown helper - a beautiful moment of community and solidarity.

Winter safety and preparation

The success of this undertaking was not only due to the determination of the participants, but also to their respectful approach to the winter conditions. After all, cyclists are unprotected road users who have no crumple zone whatsoever. According to ADFC recommendations, careful behavior is essential, which is why participants adapted their driving behavior to the respective conditions. Anticipatory driving was emphasized and turns were announced using hand signals to increase the safety of everyone involved.

Winter-proof bicycles, protective clothing and appropriate riding behavior are particularly important in winter. The ADAC points out that good winter tires and functioning lighting are essential. It is recommended to wear weatherproof and light-colored clothing, which increases visibility in traffic. At temperatures around freezing point, the onion principle is quite helpful when dressing so that you can react quickly to temperature changes. E-bikes and Pedelecs also require special attention, especially when caring for the battery, which should always be charged at room temperature.

A positive conclusion

The cyclists enjoyed the ride on the fresh asphalt that was available to them without any obstructions. Fortunately, everyone returned safely and participants paid each other great respect for the physical feat achieved in such challenging winter conditions. Supported by the employees of the Schwerin Road Construction Authority, the implementation of this tour was not only a further step towards the completion of the A14, which connects the state capital continuously with the A20 and A24, but also gave a strong signal for the cycling community in the region.

This shows that even when it gets cold, there is always something to gain for passionate cyclists - be it the feeling of freedom on two wheels or the experience of putting your fitness to the test even in the coldest season.