Riding while it's snowing
#1
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Riding while it's snowing
I went out today with heavy, wet snow coming down, temp about 28 F. On my road bike (my new 'cross bike is on order; should get it in a couple of days). Only lasted 15 minutes, after realizing that my bib tights are windproof but not waterproof, and having my cycling glasses get covered in wet snow. Traction was a bit slippery but not too bad. But my wet legs and inability to see well sent me back inside.
Any suggestions for riding while it's snowing, or should I call it a trainer day?
Any suggestions for riding while it's snowing, or should I call it a trainer day?
#2
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I went out today with heavy, wet snow coming down, temp about 28 F. On my road bike (my new 'cross bike is on order; should get it in a couple of days). Only lasted 15 minutes, after realizing that my bib tights are windproof but not waterproof, and having my cycling glasses get covered in wet snow. Traction was a bit slippery but not too bad. But my wet legs and inability to see well sent me back inside.
Any suggestions for riding while it's snowing, or should I call it a trainer day?
Any suggestions for riding while it's snowing, or should I call it a trainer day?
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Being dressed properly and having the right bike make riding in snow a blast! Waterproof pants, goggles/eye protection, and traction make it enjoyable.
#4
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At 28 degrees the snow is gonna melt when it gets on your body. Wool will keep you warm when it's wet; that poly stuff will get cold on you. Snow in the eyes is definitely a problem and eyewear will fog up if you get heated up.
I would not call it a trainer day - I'd call it a suffer-fest and bang it out.
I would not call it a trainer day - I'd call it a suffer-fest and bang it out.
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I rode up on a bobcat that was trying to tear open a muskrat den while it was snowing heavily. We just stared at each other for what seemed like a long time from about 50 feet apart. That is something I'll never forget.
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its unexpected conditions like that is why I always pack my rain gear. In that situation I would've put on my rain pants. And in this kind of weather I wear goggles. Sure the snow is still going to stick to the goggles, but that's just the way it is. You just wipe it off with your finger. The goggles keep the wind out of my eyes, even tho I wear eyeglasses, and they keep my face warm.
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I put my studded tires on after Thanksgiving and keep them on until the end of Feb. I also always pack a rain jacket and rain pants during the winter month. If it keep water out, it usually keep with wind out too.
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Close to 0C you need waterproof clothing. Prepare for a sweaty ride though as truly waterproof stuff doesn't ventilate very well. Armpit zippers etc. help. When it's colder, windproof is the key. Add layers as needed, wool is definitely good.
You said you didn't have problems traction wise... should that situation ever change, your new CX bike will likely have enough clearance for studded tyres.
You said you didn't have problems traction wise... should that situation ever change, your new CX bike will likely have enough clearance for studded tyres.
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To err is human. To moo is bovine.
Who is this General Failure anyway, and why is he reading my drive?
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#9
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I think visibility is a serious concern during snow. Not for you to see, but whether you can be seen. I tried once during the beginning of a snow storm and had to get off after less than 1 block because the flurries must have made me very invisible to drivers.