OldsCOOL, Don't I know that! When I first got back on I was working hard and suffering at just 7-8mph. With in a month I had got to 11-12mph. When I got the 1996 H600 that jumped to 14-15mph just from fact the bike was a better bike that rode easier and rolls even better the road bike. With the road bike I'm running 18-19mph on the flats pretty comfortably.
overhtehillmedi, I live smack dab in the middle of Iowa. So I see every possible type of winter conditions. I guess I should have phrased my any tips question to address tires and the bike's needs. I was out last winter before the snow hit and had the RD freeze up so I'm trying to avoid those kinds of issues this year. I'm known as crazy around here for riding my Harley until the snow flies so I know how to deal with the cold. Some of that gear will transfer over to the bike quite nicely. I did have a gander in the Winter forum real quick and found some things that will help on the bike end of things. Thanks
Wogster, But but but.. the chocolate milk is my recovery drink
Bike #3 came with 2.25" tires that I changed out for 1.75" because of flat issues caused by the tire. There is plenty of room for a MTB type tire for sure. One things I've come to terms with is I will need fenders too which will be no problem because the bike is set up for them, I just don't care for the looks... sigh. I'm a auto mechanic by trade so I understand tires and snow. My concern with studded tires is on dry streets. I hate to think I need two sets of wheels and tires to get through the winter. I'm going to go talk to my LBS and see what kind of advice they will have on this subject. Thanks.
gcottay, Thanks. I'm trying to keep the fun going which is why I wanted to try and see if I can continue to commute in the winter. As a kid I remember the snow always being fun because you could slide and spin around. I was always daredevil on bikes as a kid when you crashed it didn't hurt as much. Now though not so much. I remember the first time I hit about 25mph going down hill after getting back on and thinking "please Lord don't let me crash!"
Vertigoflyer, Nice to hear your story too. I've always been a pretty happy person so not much has changed in that regard. However health wise I am defiantly happier about that! Congratulation on the new weigh in. Sub 200 is just around the corner. A few extra laps around the block will get you there. Keep up the great work!
fasthair