I lift a lot in the winter and only legs. Cycling goes to hell as soon as I start but I make sure I keep riding throughout the winter as well.

Starting March 1st I shift from heavy max loads (not much for me!) to lighter weights with higher reps while at the same time start a more aggressive cycling schedule with a lot of climbing. By April 1st I'll be done with the gym until November.

Within a week of stopping the weights, I feel much better on the bike - faster and stronger.

Being 55 years old, can't help thinking the lifting has some benefits away from just a way to get stronger through the winter.