Winter is coming
 

I know.. Not even August but for some of us who lives close to 60° North, August is usually the last month of warm weather (and by warm I mean 60+). So the time has come for starting to think about something elsa than just short sleeved jerseyes and bib shorts. This is my first season on a bike so I have literally no idea what Im looking for. Im looking for a new bib and some jerseys anyway, but what else do I need? How cold does it get before you guys starts wearing tights in stead of shorts+legs, and jackets instead of jerseys+arms? Is legs and arms plus a solid jacket (vest?) enough to keep me warm most of the fall? Whats your choice during the colder part of the year?

Critical for winter riding:

Excellent gloves
Booties (preferably thick neoprene type)
Gator or balaclava that covers neck, head, most of your face
Tights (normal as well as the thick wind proof type for that special Norway cold)
Good jacket and under layers
Glasses that keep as much wind out as possible
Helmet cover

Wind stopping vests and knickers are good for moderately cool weather, but in my Scandinavian experience it goes from tolerably cool to downright cold there pretty quickly. I love the challenge of beating the weather with proper attire.

A good rule of thumb is that if you don't feel a little chilled when you start your ride, you're probably dressed too warmly. You will warm up quite a bit once you really get going, that is, everything except your fingers and toes!

I thought, with the title to this thread, that the OP was talking about Game of Thrones which is being filmed in Iceland . . .

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winter_Is_Coming

Thanks :thumb:

When the winter really kicks in, Im having trouble seeing myself on a saddle. Riding in icy/snowy conditions isnt really my thing. I believe spiky tires aren't the best option to fit a road bike. :p A lot of positive reviews about the Castelli Gabba jacket. With layers underneath and some tights will probably get me a long way? I know it isnt really comparable, but Im used to playing football, Im sorry soccer, all year with longsleeves and shorts, I think we northerners are pretty decent in keeping warm in terrible conditions.

As far as the GoT reference, that was intentional.

Yeah, any ice at all and normal road bike tires are a deadly combination. Those that bike regularly in snowy conditions often ride mountain bikes with extremely fat low pressure tires, where speed takes a back seat to just staying upright.

The clothing you need is highly variable depending on your age and how fit or fat you are, and how acclimated to cold weather you are, also depends on how long you're going to be out. Down to around 65 degrees F, I'm good with regular shorts and short-sleeve jersey. Down to around 55 degrees F, I can still use shorts with long-sleeve jersey or maybe two jerseys. Below that, I'll be wearing tights and however many jerseys it takes to stay warm. Experiment and see what works for you.

It is a bit early for these threads here (even if it is actually winter right now ... 1 month till spring!)


So ... check out the Winter Cycling forum ... lots of winter clothing discussions there.

http://www.bikeforums.net/forumdispl...Winter-Cycling