ccinnz

Hi All

I have a 160km cycle event this weekend, the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge in NZ.

I completed it last year on a nice sunny day, but this year they are forecasting rain.

I'm a bit undecided on what to wear/take... I tend to avoid the rain when training and when commuting it's not really much of an issue.

I've been thinking just a light waterproof jacket, pocket stowable, for the top half and not to worry about the bottom half! Though have considered wearing my leg skins as well!

Any pointers would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

C

Elvo

Disc brakes, fenders, waterproof layer, water proof shoe covers, waterproof bibs, lights

fietsbob

Analogy; NASCAR stops the races if it rains, F1 just changes the tires..


In Belgium, I was told, when there, the young racers in training,
don't fit mudguards on their bikes,

Just so they are not mistaken for bike tourists.. like I was..



...




....

RShantz

If it's going to be really raining and not just occasional showers, I wouldn't worry about any waterproof stuff. You'll be wet anyway. I'd just put on a wool base/under layer and something to block the wind just to keep body heat.

What I really hate is my feet getting wet, but I haven't found a realistic way to keep them dry. If it's really raining, the water will run down your leg and get into your shoes regardless of the shoe cover used in my experience. One thing I do is take a fresh pair of socks in a Ziploc in case it stops raining and I have time to change.

ccinnz

I'm totally on board with the change of socks... thanks, great idea.

CliffordK

What are the temperatures like in New Zealand? What is it like when it rains?

I've been caught in light summer rain when I might throw on a jacket, but the legs hardly get wet, or at least they evaporate as quick as it rains.

Oh, then there have been those rides where one puts on the rain gear for 10 minutes, then the sun comes out and off it comes for the next 10 minutes, then rain again.



I'd probably bring the jacket, bike tights, and perhaps my water-resistant shoes (Shimano MW-81)

ccinnz

Thanks
They're forecasting 19 degrees (C) approx 70 F... So nice cycling temp... won't be getting cold.
Unfortunately my current road shoes are a pair of very nice leather Viittoria Legends... may have to take my Botranger MTB shoes and change the pedals and duct tape the mesh toe vent!

Carbonfiberboy 

70°! Bare legs, warm poly undershirt, SS jersey, wind vest, arm warmers, wool socks. Bring a change of gloves and socks if you can. Shoe covers won't do much because the water will run down your legs - UNLESS you put dry suit leg seals on your bare ankles above your socks. Then booties will be very nice. And of course fenders, poly beanie under the helmet.

Jofu

At 70 degrees F, I would literally do nothing, just be careful while cornering and braking, but otherwise enjoy the rain I mean it, it can be quite fun once you get over the fact you're wet!

Wet and cold, now that's just plain annoying haha.


Geoff

Dean V

Sounds like it was wet and cold (10 deg C).
Hope you got through it ok.

atwl77

The advice on spare set of dry socks is the most important thing. I went through a 400km brevet where it rained for about half the day, was a really unpleasant experience even after the ride was over.
Also if it gets cold, a plastic bag tucked under your jersey covering your chest works wonders.

Caliper

I'd grab a waterproof helmet cover. Either a cycling specific one, or just a simple plastic shower cap. Keeping your head dry is really nice.

Some sort of waterproof layer for your feet also, especially if your shoes have heavy ventilation. The "free" option is a plastic bag inside the shoes over your socks. There are also cycling overshoes that will keep your entire shoe dry.

Like others, I'd only bother with this if it's really pouring. If it's a mix of rain and sun and the temps are warm, just roll with it. Don't forget to clean the bike and relube the chain after!

chicagogal

How did it go?

Reynolds 

Late I know, but for long distance in the rain I'd bring some kind of "butt cream".

ccinnz

All good thanks, rain pretty much the whole day... apart from my feet I stayed warm and dry with undervest, arm warmers and a shower proof jacket.
Time of just shy of 7 hours which was my target