Originally Posted by
trackhub
In the Boston area, this can be a tough call. It can be 65 degrees, and feel like's it much colder. Or.. It can be 65 degrees, and feel much warmer. The wind, relative humidity,
etc. can play parts. Wind from the east: Long tights and a jacket. Carry ear protection and warm gloves. You will not regret this. Wind from the west: Even tougher. A west wind
can actually be quite warm, even though the west wind is stronger. i.e. Plastic-trash-cans-in-the-street, lots of airborne pieces of trash.
What it takes: Experience in your given geographic area. But, I basically consider it "winter" until the temps go up to the 70s and stay there.
You make some valid points concerning wind and humidity. Even though the thermometer reads 60F, depending on wind and the direction, clouds, humidity, it can feel much colder.
Just finished a 40 mile ride today, starting out at 47F and finishing at 60F. I know this is where knee or leg warmers come in to adapt to changing temps. But I stuck with bib shorts the whole ride and felt comfortable. I'm beginning to think it's more important to keep the core area properly protected or regulated then the legs.
It does sound like 60F is the breaking point between shorts and tights for most people.
Thanks all!