it's going too be -25C tonight in Toronto (at least that's what the radio says), and I need to go and meet with some friends, it's like a 5-6 km ride, but right now I'm feeling more and more tempted to take the subway!! Please!! Someone tell me to get on my freakin' bike and do it!!!

it's going too be -25C tonight in Toronto (at least that's what the radio says), and I need to go and meet with some friends, it's like a 5-6 km ride, but right now I'm feeling more and more tempted to take the subway!! Please!! Someone tell me to get on my freakin' bike and do it!!!

Sorry, no encouragement here, Environment Canada forecast windchill temp of -32C (-25F) is just too friggin cold to be out riding. (WeatherNetwork says only -25C windchill - still too friggin' cold!) Stay home!

"get on your freakin' bike and do it!!!"

;)

"get on your freakin' bike and do it!!!"

;)

Thanks dude, I'll do it... Now that I know that I can't get frostbites on my eyeballs (which is the only exposed part of my body when I ride), I've got no excuse...

Yea, get out there! Just make sure your prepared for the cold. :)

Don't go unless you're completely prepared for it. I read somewhere that it takes less than 10 minutes for frostbite to hit, and that's some nasty stuff, man. Be careful.

Koffee

One nice aspect about riding in the cold in a city is that there are many bail-out options. Just be aware of your "vital signs" and stop if you feel your legs, feet, fingers, face... are too cold.

Sometimes, walking 1-2 minutes is all it takes to get warm; other times, a coffee or hot chocolate at a convenience store (inside) does wonders. And worst comes to worst, it's easy to lock up the bike and continue your journey by bus.

Regards,

You can do it, just keep your parts covered (sounds like you've got that taken care of). 5-6k shouldn't be much of a problem.

Well, I did it...
I just looked at the forecast, and it's saying that tomorrow the windchill will make it -39C!!! It's going to feel like I'm training for the Iditarod... Plus, we're getting some serious snow right now. Good thing my ride to school is only a couple of kilometers.

I hope you have a balaclava. I bet you do since you live in Canada. I will NOT get on my bicycle in weather like this without my balaclava.

4130phile

I once had a wool balaclava and I happily rode in almost any winter condition

If the Toronto subway will allow you to take your bike on the train - do both. Go by subway and bring your bike.

I hope you have a balaclava. I bet you do since you live in Canada. I will NOT get on my bicycle in weather like this without my balaclava.

4130phile

Yes I do, and I use it sometimes, but I find that it usually makes my head really warm and my brain feels like it's boiling under the helmet! But it's great to keep other parts of your face from freezing.

I just saw a mask in general sports goods store that was apparently designed to cover neck and lower part of face. It had little holes for mouth & nose. I too think balaclava is a bit too warm for the rest of the head, even though my balaclava is very thin. Maybe I should go back there and give it a go.

Of course I don't remember the brandname or price. Doubt this helps. :D

--J

I once had a wool balaclava and I happily rode in almost any winter condition

I'd like to get a wool balaclava -do you remember the brand?