I agree. I prefer to bike in the winter more than the summer. And I do
have a tough time monitoring the conditions... Because I bike commute
to work I never know what the conditions will be out there as well -
overnight weather can really fool you in the morning!

My wardrobe
Very thin base layer
Long sleeve Jersey
Fleece overshirt
wind jacket
thermal pants
wind pants
two pair socks
hiking boots (yep, and sandals in the summer!)
balaclava
crappy gloves

It's pretty much the same if I'm mountain biking although I usually
leave out the fleece overshirt and the wind pants and I trade in the
hiking boots for real bike boots (Lake).

Bikes
Mountain: Trek 6700, yr. 2002-ish
Hybrid: Trek 7500FX, yr. 2004 (my second one. the first was stolen-the
rats)
Road: Specialized Allez Vita, yr. 2003 (dust collector)

I'm finally done buying bikes having bought and sold a few others.
However, if I ever win the lottery I will buy a Santa Cruz Juliana. I
test road one once and thought I'd died and gone to heaven. I still
remember it and I doubt I'll ever forget it.


--- In njmountainbiking@yahoogroups.com, "rtman62701" <ballinhand69@...>
wrote:
>
> I can understand some of these last bitter days not wanting to
> venture outdoors, but for the most part the winter can be some of
> the best rides of the season. You don't necessarily need studded
> tires although they help. The hardest part is to monitor the
> conditions. If the snow is packed - go for it. If there's a couple
> inches of fluffy stuff - go for it. If it's slushy snow or there's
> more than 3" it's going to be rough. When in doubt hit the road and
> get some miles in. I'll ride all winter long and I'll be out even
> in these conditions. Just find a system of layering clothing so
> that you'll stay warm.
>
> Here's what I wear for winter rides:
>
> sleeveless base layer
> long sleeve jersey
> wind jacket
> bib shorts with leg warmers
> thermal tights
> shoe covers
> lobster gloves
> thin ski hat
>
> If it gets into the lower teens or single digits I'll throw on an
> extra layer of tights and a different jacket but that's it. Oh and
> don't underestimate the power of those chemical toe warmers. It's
> all good!!!
>
> Ryan
>




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