The 'net ruined cycling
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: Minneapolis, MN USA
Posts: 257
Bikes: Steelman Eurocross, Peugeot U08 fixie, Specialized Expidition, Raleigh Sprite 27, Serotta CDA
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I've been successful with a thin pearl izumi balaclava below 20 F or so. Below zero I add a thin hat over it. No problem. Perhaps you should grow some facial hair, especially if you're of the gender that typically has some? I've been known to carry a scarf on the -15 F days, but haven't needed to use one yet. Plugging up some of the vents on your helmet with cling wrap can help a little, especially on those nasty Northwesterly days.
It seems that everyone is a little different about subzero. I'm essentially fine except for my feet with what others would consider relatively little clothing (ie. two layers for the legs and torso, one for the head, and four for the feet). You can expect to have to experiment a bit.
The duration of your ride is also, IMHO, very important in the cold. How long are you usually out and what's your pace like?