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Riding while it's snowing

Old 01-17-14, 07:17 PM
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Riding while it's snowing

I went out today with heavy, wet snow coming down, temp about 28 F. On my road bike (my new 'cross bike is on order; should get it in a couple of days). Only lasted 15 minutes, after realizing that my bib tights are windproof but not waterproof, and having my cycling glasses get covered in wet snow. Traction was a bit slippery but not too bad. But my wet legs and inability to see well sent me back inside.

Any suggestions for riding while it's snowing, or should I call it a trainer day?
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Old 01-17-14, 08:40 PM
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Originally Posted by climberguy
I went out today with heavy, wet snow coming down, temp about 28 F. On my road bike (my new 'cross bike is on order; should get it in a couple of days). Only lasted 15 minutes, after realizing that my bib tights are windproof but not waterproof, and having my cycling glasses get covered in wet snow. Traction was a bit slippery but not too bad. But my wet legs and inability to see well sent me back inside.

Any suggestions for riding while it's snowing, or should I call it a trainer day?
Water/windproof running pants like SportHill XC, water resistant windbreaker over wool long-sleeve jersey, wool socks, shoe covers, fenders, helmet with a visor or a cycling cap under your helmet. Rain cover for helmet also a plus. CX tires for wet snow, studded tires for ice.
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Old 01-17-14, 09:38 PM
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Being dressed properly and having the right bike make riding in snow a blast! Waterproof pants, goggles/eye protection, and traction make it enjoyable.
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Old 01-17-14, 09:52 PM
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At 28 degrees the snow is gonna melt when it gets on your body. Wool will keep you warm when it's wet; that poly stuff will get cold on you. Snow in the eyes is definitely a problem and eyewear will fog up if you get heated up.

I would not call it a trainer day - I'd call it a suffer-fest and bang it out.
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Old 01-17-14, 10:10 PM
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I rode up on a bobcat that was trying to tear open a muskrat den while it was snowing heavily. We just stared at each other for what seemed like a long time from about 50 feet apart. That is something I'll never forget.
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Old 01-18-14, 06:36 PM
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its unexpected conditions like that is why I always pack my rain gear. In that situation I would've put on my rain pants. And in this kind of weather I wear goggles. Sure the snow is still going to stick to the goggles, but that's just the way it is. You just wipe it off with your finger. The goggles keep the wind out of my eyes, even tho I wear eyeglasses, and they keep my face warm.
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Old 01-19-14, 07:23 PM
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I put my studded tires on after Thanksgiving and keep them on until the end of Feb. I also always pack a rain jacket and rain pants during the winter month. If it keep water out, it usually keep with wind out too.
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Old 01-20-14, 11:14 PM
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Close to 0C you need waterproof clothing. Prepare for a sweaty ride though as truly waterproof stuff doesn't ventilate very well. Armpit zippers etc. help. When it's colder, windproof is the key. Add layers as needed, wool is definitely good.

You said you didn't have problems traction wise... should that situation ever change, your new CX bike will likely have enough clearance for studded tyres.
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Old 01-21-14, 04:37 PM
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I think visibility is a serious concern during snow. Not for you to see, but whether you can be seen. I tried once during the beginning of a snow storm and had to get off after less than 1 block because the flurries must have made me very invisible to drivers.
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