Hey folks -
I know that this is an early topic, but I wanted to get some advice on preparing for cold rides and training in the winter.
Season & Temp: First off - how cold is just plain too cold? I am assuming that late November/early December is when the majority of us stop riding early mornings in the park. I think we were in the mid 60's this AM, but I was still fine in cutoff and shorts. At what stage do the headbands and cold weather gear come out?
Gear & Trainer: Second - as I am genetically engineered for the warmer climes, I know I will need to use some indoor trainer of some sort (I shiver in 40's). So, I am checking out some options and wanted some advice. Roller or rear wheel trainer? I am afraid of biking off the roller and smashing up my living room, but I also worry about uneven tire wear because of the trainer. Additionally, any potential damage that I should be aware of before using a skewer from the trainer (if that is the route I go). I am also looking for compatibility for multiple bikes - my wife also is interested in staying in the saddle for the winter (so I don't want to have to swap out skewers and risk throwing off alignment a few mornings/week).
I'd be really interested in hearing what the rest of the NY biking community does, and getting some community advice.
I know that this is an early topic, but I plan on keeping in shape, as I am headed down to Argentina in the off season and plan on seeing a good part of the country on two wheels.
Thanks,
Rob
p.s. Don't blame me for causing you to think about the end of summer too...You can always blame all the designers for packing the stores with fall styles if you find this post ridiculous in late August...
Cold weather preparation
"Everyone is a little different, but you want to keep your knees covered in the cool weather. I'll wear tights if the temp is in the 50s. Leg warmers/arm warmers are good because they can be peeled off as you warm up. A light cycling vest with a windproof front and open mesh back is also a great thing to have.
You should dress so that you're a little cold for the first mile or so. If you're comfortable at the very start, you're over-dressed.
If you keep riding regularly as the weather gets colder you'll adapt to it better than if you stop riding in October, and then go out again in December.
Some folks switch to mountain biking in the winter. Trainers are an ok way to maintain basic fitness if you're disciplined enough to use it regularly. And by using your normal road bike on it, you maintain flexibility and keep your butt toughened.
Use an old worn tire on your trainer, and keep it pumped up to normal pressure.
Hey, Spring will be here soon. Oh, I forgot it's still August!
""Chainwheel"""
Based on everyone's comments so far, I am assuming that the rear wheel trainer is the recommended way to go - NOT the roller. Though I am not 100% sure why - any reasons?
I guess the real pain in the arse for 'off season' cycling is not so much low temperatures, but more later sunrise and earlier sunset...which is a crimp on weekday training before work.
i always preferred rollers. they force you to concentrate, smooth your stroke and don't put undue stress on your knees. you can tell the stationary-trainer folks...they can't hold a line.
;)
don
Layering in the winter months is key!
I don't go out if it's below freezing.
Also those self heating toe and hand warmers work pretty
good. If you are new to riding in cold weather start off
gradually and see how your body reacts. For me my hands
are the first to get cold after an hour or so of riding.
For that I wear two thin layers of gloves on top of my
lobster gloves (which I hate by the way!)
But again if you layer properly the cold will be more
tolerable. Hope this helps!
"...through the winter gives you just enough insulation to keep you warm during those cold rides. the extra body fat cushions your fall when the clown in front of you swerves at the last possible moment to avoid a bfr (big f*****g rock).
don ""hell's kitchen fats"" montalvo"
