What special measures do I have to take to commute in frigid temperatures? Until now, I have been an infrequent recreational (summer) cyclist, but this winter I plan to begin commuting to work via bicycle.  It is a relatively short distance, (approx. ten minute ride), but the temperature in winter can get as low as -40°C (-40°F), although more-typical lows are between -25 to -30°C (-13 to -22°F), with the ever-present wind making it feel even colder.

It generally stays below freezing most of the winter, so I'm not particularly concerned about wetness or slushy/icy streets; my primary concern is temperature.

My bicycle is a mid-range mountain bike -- not super fancy, but not the uber-cheap Walmart variety, either.  (I realize it's not the ideal commuting bike, but it's what I have.) It has rim brakes and trigger shifters for the derailleurs.

At home, my bike will typically be stored in an unheated shed.  At work, there is a heated indoor location to store it.

Snow is generally cleared from the streets reasonably quickly, and I have a dedicated bike lane most of the way to work, so I'm not too worried about navigating the streets in the winter.

This is not a duplicate of What are the minimum requirements to commute comfortably through the winter?, since it deals with moderate New York winters, and I'm asking specifically about much colder temperatures.

I want to know:


Is there any special equipment/care/maintenance I need for my bicycle for it to be able to function appropriately in these temperatures (e.g. special lubricant for the chain, special tires that won't crack in the cold, etc.)?  I have little experience with this, so I don't know whether my bicycle will be sufficient as-is or will need special treatment.  
I plan to dress warmly, cover my face, etc., but I'm wondering if there is any special clothing/equipment I need for myself, aside from regular warm winter clothing.
Is there anything else I need to be aware of when commuting in very cold weather?
First of all, I haven’t done anything as extreme as you, only -18°C.

The bike should be fine, maybe use less viscous chain oil and grease. I’ve ridden normal (though quite supple) Michelin Mud2 and Schwalbe Racing Ralph cyclocross tires in -10°C and didn’t notice any difference in their performance. In even colder weather I’ve only ridden studded Nokkian tires. There are special winter tires, e.g. the Conti Top Contact Winter 2 which might be a good idea in any case.

Be aware that cables can freeze and molten snow can form ice on your rims. Regularly check that you are still able to brake, especially before approaching an intersection or the like. Battery powered lights might run into problems (or at least reduced battery run-time).

Regarding clothing: Think about all the contact points between you and the bicycle: Saddle, pedals and handlebar (brakes, shifters). If you can comfortably sit in the saddle with your -40°C winter pants, don’t rub on the crank arms with your -40°C boots and can still shift and brake with your -40°C gloves everything should be fine. For your hands you could get Bar Mitts which allow you to wear thinner gloves. This assumes that your clothing is otherwise suitable for wind and strenuous activity in the cold weather.