Originally Posted by
billmc40
I have noticed that when it is 60 degrees out you stay perty warm while moving. Since I really love to ride my bike, I am wanting to comtinue to ride this winter and keep losing some weight or at least not put any back on. I plan on riding mainly on the weekeneds and only if it is dry. I am so confused over what to buy. I am in Kansas and proballly more then likely won't ride below 35 degrees and and only when dry. I have learn from this summer's heat I need to wear bike shorts, so I dont want to go with out them or pants. I have heard everything from go to Wal-Mart and buy under armour tights to wear over the shorts to pants so please help me.
BillMc
You can get by with cheap everyday clothing if you are riding short rides and not sweating much. However, if you are getting sweaty and riding far enough away from home to not easily be able to walk home you need to dress properly. You will be most comfortable if you buy a Goretex or equivalent cycling jacket and some medium weight winter cycling tights. I would stay away from non-cycling tights. They do not perform properly while cycling. An inexpensive helmet cover and cycling specific skull cap are nice to have. For most people, when it gets down around freezing the feet and hands are the hardest thing to keep warm on rides over 20-30 minutes in length.
Unfortunately, cycling jackets are not real cheap and start at around 110 USD for one that will work well. Though sometimes you can get them for less on sale. Medium weight winter cycling tights start at around 40-50 USD. You can layer cheaper discount clothing or things you already have under the cycling jacket.