Winter Riding: Why The Heck Not?

I've been wondering why most people, riders and non-riders alike, seem so shocked to learn that some of us still ride through the winter months. Questions like "isn't it too cold?" or "do you first warm up?" usually come up. Apparently, the main (or only) factor that keeps most riders off the roads or trails during the winter months is the outdoor temperature. But, when you stop to think about it, it's really not that big a deal.

I'll admit, riding in the cold is not as pleasant as in the warm weather, and you have to dress just right or risk being too cold and hating it, or too warm and hating it, perhaps a little less. And if you're so terrified of feeling cold that you end up dressing way too warm and find yourself sweating profusely, you better not stop for too long because as soon as you pick up some speed all that moisture, with the cold air blowing through it, will feel really cold real quick.

But think about that very popular winter activity: skiing. Alpine skiing, as opposed to the less popular cross-country skiing, if you want to get technical. Snow boarding, thanks to the X-gen crowd, is quickly reaching the same level of popularity as classic Alpine. As far as I can tell, without actually studying any statistics, skiing is hugely popular, even here in the US. Much more so than cycling. Just look at the ski lift lines at any ski park or resort.

My main point here is that skiing/snowboarding typically take place in cold temperatures, with the ground covered in snow and ice. Many people will even go out and hit the slopes while the snow is still falling. After all, if you're on vacation at some ski resort, you've plunked a lot of cash just to be there for a weekend or longer. Perhaps you've rented equipment for your stay. A little nip in the air is not going to keep you tucked indoors.

So what do you do? You dress appropriately and you get out there (duh). And have fun. Cold weather be damned!

Guess what: there are excellent winter riding clothes and accessories made specifically for cycling as well. Sure, you'll be carrying a little more weight (ask Barry, he knows exactly how much more weight), and your freedom of movement won't be quite as extensive as when you're only wearing a single layer of lightweight lycra. But isn't being out there doing what you love so much better than the alternative?

And you don't have to pay a dime for a lift pass, either.

So, what's your excuse?

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