Winter Cycling: More Preparation, More Fun Written by Dale Garrison A
lthough it might look simple, winter cycling can be among the most challenging outdoor pursuits available in the Midwest. Consider a raw, windy morning; it’s 35°F outside and the humidity gives the air a bitter edge. There’s a 10-mph north wind, something you’d hardly notice in July but potentially miserable from November to March. Add 20 or 30 mph going downhill and you could face single-digit wind chills. With the sweat you generated climbing that hill, you could be a candidate for hypothermia. But winter riding offers everything from stunning beauty to a great way to maintain off-season fitness. It’s also a way to hone old skills or develop new ones while building strengths that will pay dividends the rest of the year. Winter cycling definitely involves
some challenges. The biggest is the clothing you put on before leaving your home. The answers involve layering, not overdressing, and covering those areas where you get chilled easily. Fortunately, clothing and equipment manufacturers offer a lot of answers. “It’s amazing what they’ve come up with,” explained Christina Decker of Midwest Cyclery. She recommends starting with gloves, perhaps a neck gaiter, leg warmers or tights, and a thin skullcap under the helmet. “Then upgrade as you go. Start with what you need the most and add layers.” Many cyclists overlook their knees, which may not feel that cold but can be damaged if unprotected. The heaviest items may even be counterproductive. “I’ve found that by buying the thinner options, you have a lot more temperatures you can dress
for,” noted Jason Starforth of the Bicycle Shack in Lee’s Summit. “That’s usually better than one thick garment. Multiple layers are a key.” Nearly everyone who exercises in winter now knows something about layering. You start with a warm, moisture-wicking layer next to your skin—usually a synthetic underwear top and cycling shorts. Depending on conditions, you may add additional insulation like a fleece pullover. If it’s still colder, a breathable outer windbreaker may be needed. Your extremities may need special attention. Are your head or ears easily chilled? Your hands or feet turn to ice blocks? You’ll likely need some special equipment, like “lobster claw” mittens that let you brake safely while keeping your hands warm. Biking gear comes in
A group of hardy cyclists leave Wyandotte County Lake Park in Kansas City, Kansas en route for Weston, Missouri. Held the third Saturday of every month, George’s Weston Ride covers 58 miles of challenging hills and long flats, and welcomes riders of all levels.
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WINTER 2019
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