Originally Posted by
xyntiacat
So this seems like a weird question, but believe me there is logic. I live in a place that has pretty unpredictable weather in the springtime (tornado alley) and unbelievably hot in the summertime. I am just starting a 15 mile RT commute to my workplace that is pretty easy, but my main concern is that I don't want to get caught out when a rain storm suddenly turns nasty beyond redemption or I'm likely to get heat stroke. Are there any rules you guys have self imposed on when to ride versus not? Have you noticed that you bodily adapt to the weather while commuting?
I've been commuting by bike for about 3 years now (21 miles round trip). I'm getting up there in age (close to 50) so I try to be more careful these days and prepare each night. Get panniers for your bike.
I usually check the weather the night before and also in the morning. I carry a second set of clothes for the afternoon as temperatures here can go from 30 F in the morning and 60 F in the afternoon. If its cloudy, I'll carry my waterproof gear even if the forecast says no rain. It's saved me many times.
I didn't ride one time when there was 60 mph wind gusts with heavy rain. It was dangerous enough that the Federal Government closed as a result.
On the bridges, I do experience 40+ mph wind gusts. You learn to lean your bike into the wind the entire time to not get blown over. Sometime I have to lean in quite a bit because I weight about 140 lbs. I never think what I am I doing. It's more, WOW! this is crazy funny and I'm laughing as the wind is trying to blow me over.
In the winter, the same cold winds on the bridge can get painful even with the face mask. It cuts right though the holes like pins. Thankfully the time on the bridge is less than 5 minutes.
That said, I do enjoy the days when its raining or sub freezing temperatures. It's quiet and I only see at most 1-2 cyclists.
I recommend getting a waterproof shell (top/bottom) and waterproof shoes. Shoe covers don't work as well. Try to get a shell that comes with a hood that can fit under your helmet. That will keep you dry in all rain conditions. The shells are thin enough that you can roll them up and very light to carry.
For the winter, layer up in fleece and get bar mitts for your bike. Invest in a few pairs of Heat Holder thermal socks. (That will keep you comfortable in freezing temps. I've tested them in 15 deg F commutes. You may have to get a shoe 1/2 to 1 size up though because they are thick)
Commuting by bike can get pretty expensive. I'm sure I've spent at least $1000 in clothes and gear. But I've made all that back in gas saving from not commuting by car within the first year.
I enjoy not having to deal with heavy car traffic but have new dangers to deal with in the city; metro buses flying by you just inches away, cars that don't stop at cross walks, cars going in and out of bike lanes, etc.
Its like that squirrel that you see near a MUP and bikes are flying by. Only now you are the squirrel in the city LOL.
Enjoy!