Since my commute changed from 8 miles to 20 feet, I haven't been out riding for weeks. Maybe longer. This is the first winter that I ever skipped as a bike rider, so I'm a newbie at getting ready for that first ride.

I'm making a list:

• A cycling kit mask. Should it match my socks?
• Do we have a new pandemic-specific callout, like "On your left, six FEET!"
• In group rides do we call out no-mask pedestrians or cyclists? "Maskhole UP"
• I need to do some basic maintenance on that all-important helmet (my brain is WORTH something )
  • Polish it up
  • Make sure the pad strips have 0mm of slide
  • Align the visor
  • Refurb the straps for the proper souplesse. What is the approved chemical for that?
  • Lubricate the strap latches
  • Visual inspection for any nicks or scratches (catastrophic failure from stress risers you know)
  • What else?
• Practice my waving
• wax or oil or bacon grease?
• Should I just buy a new bike?

OK what have I left out, for that first post-winter ride?