Originally Posted by
downtube42
With a headwind it's just a matter of gearing down,
ignoring the speedometer, and managing expectations. Water and food can become a problem eventually though
Crosswinds are a whole 'nother story. I have on occasion enjoyed the challenge and unique experience of cycling not perpendicular to the ground, marveling at the odd noises wind can make when rushing around telephone poles and wires and helmet vents and such. But throw in gusts and some traffic, and I think it's time to do something different - as long as it doesn't involve setting up a tent.
Somewhere on Youtube is a humorous video of some Dutch cyclists attempting to ride in a ridiculous crosswind. One poor skinny fellow I think has to be rescued by the team car.
^^^^ This. Headwinds are too strong when I have to walk the bike 100' into the wind, turn around, and ride downwind to get any starting headway.
Which I've had to do only once. I got a mile into the ride, turned around, and called it a day. It was insane to even try, but you know, rule
#5 and all that stuff.
Crosswinds are a whole 'nother matter. If you're riding with your downwind hand on the hoods or tops, and your upwind hand on the drops, to kind of lean into it while trying to track straight, it's too windy.