Tomorrow it should be about 45F when I start my bike commute. That's not cold for some of you commuters, but for me, it's chilly. I've been waffling back and forth between going or not, even considering hauling my bike to work in the back of my truck, and commuting home when it's a much warmer 65F. But I really want to get the full 30 mile round trip under my belt.
I'll dress warmly, and layered so I'll have a cooler clothing option for the ride home. And I'll try really hard not to think about it tonight, as there's still time for me to change my mind.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
8 comments:
My biggest problem on cold weather rides is keeping my hands and feet warm.
On my hands, I wear a thin glove liner, a fingerless glove over that, and (when it's really cold) a wind-blocking snowboarding overglove. It has enough layers that it's very adjustable as conditions change. This works really well for me.
On my feet, I usually wear a thin sock liner, a wool hiking sock, and a pair of winter (waterproof, windproof) cycling shoes. This usually works, but doesn't quite cut it on really cold days or long all-day rides.
Good luck!
I've got an 8 mile one-way commute around I10 and Hwy 6. I get out of the cold quickly and that makes a huge difference. My problem is always toes and fingers, not core temperature. I got a pair of electric socks (D-cell) that I use below 30 F. I also have trouble with my eyes watering; I use ski goggles.
Above freezing I don't do anything special..hope you make the ride tomorrow..
I'd say suck it up and do it but at 45° things are already sucking up. Go by Academy and get some chemical toe warmers. 6 hours of toasty comfort.
After you've pedaled a mile or so I bet you'll be surprised how warm you are. Be prepared to take off some layers, especially if you are wearing anything windproof. Keep your ears and toes covered and you will have fun.
Work gloves will keep your hands warmer and you can use them to garden with when spring gets here. A pair of wool socks will also make a big difference. Safety goggles are just right at 45. Other than that, the layered approach is perfect.
Actually, I find the above stuff works down to even a bit below freezing.
When I have the problem of cool morning to warm afternoon, I just through on leg warmers, arm warmers, and a wind layer, then stuff all the extra stuff in the saddle bags on the way home. And don't forget a thin beanie under your helmet.
And here I was, gushing to a friend of mine that the morning rides were really starting to warm up...because it's been in the high-20s, or low 30s the past few days.
But, 45 can be quite uncomfortable if the humidity is high, or you aren't dressed for it.
Cry me a river :)
Post a Comment