Outside of a couple of flats, and my cleat trouble (leading to a very entertaining dismount at the shop!) it was a good ride.
Weather reports keep changing for this Saturday. If we are able to ride, we'll head out to REI. Clear or not, it's supposed to be chilly, and what better place to warm up than at Starbucks! Be sure to dress in warm layers, and check back here and/or our Facebook Page to see whether or not the ride has been cancelled. The plan is to update both by 8:30am on Saturdays IF WE CANCEL. If it's really ugly out, we'll update Friday evening.
Just a couple of tips for cool weather riding:
Dress in layers - you'll warm up as you ride, so wear something that's easy to take off and store while on the trail. Leg/arm warmers are great, as they come in many different levels of "warm", and they are easy to remove, store, or adjust on the ride.
Wear breathable, moisture wicking materials. Merino Wool is especially good in the cold as it moves the perspiration off of you before it turns to sweat. This helps maintain your body temperature, and keeps you dry - we've all experienced that clammy feeling you get when you work out in the cold; you start to warm up, sweat, and then your shirt sticks to your back and suddenly you're shivering. The proper clothing can help with this (and it doesn't have to be "cycling specific" - regular, cold weather base layers are just fine; just make sure they're long enough to cover your back while you ride).
Don't forget your head, ears and neck. Wear a lightweight beanie under your helmet (they make thin ones just for cycling), grab your ear-cover-headband-thing, and make sure your jersey or baselayer comes up high enough on your neck to keep you comfortable.
Gloves - our hands are right out there in front taking a lot of COLD wind on them, and those summer, mesh gloves aren't going to cut it. Make sure you have gloves that keep you warm enough to be responsive. We've all experienced hands so cold that you can't even move your fingers, you don't even know if you actually shifted, and they hurt when you try to force them to do something like squeeze your brakes. Keep them warm!!
When it comes to the legs, make sure whatever you wear isn't going to get caught in your chain - long socks help a lot, and compression socks will help keep the blood moving; really cold and I'm wearing tights; you may even wish to try embrocation (WARNING - do not do this for the first time at a ride!!! Also, do it after you put your shorts on).
Lastly, just because it's cold outside, doesn't mean you won't dehydrate. Bring your fluids just like you would any other time of year, and remind yourself to drink it even if you don't feel thirsty.
Personally, I love those crisp, winter rides. You often have the trail all to yourself cutting a new path in the snow!! Then you happen upon the guy walking his dog who looks at you like you're crazy....
Until then, enjoy some more pictures from last Saturday's ride. Hope to see you all this weekend!
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