Saturday Ride

Out and back on Saxonburg Blvd.

Since I missed the fine weather on Friday, I thought I’d go out in the cold and wind. I just couldn’t muster up the motivation to hit the rollers, and there wouldn’t be snow on the road, so why not. In the spirit of Steevo’s litany of clothing, here’s what I wore (conditions: temperature hovering around 20, with solid winds):

* Synthetic long sleeve top
* Fleece arm warmers
* Short sleeve wool jersey
* Patagonia soft shell jacket
* Bib shorts
* Fleece knee warmers
* Wind-proof, fleece-lined tights
* Two pairs wool socks
* Shoe covers
* Two pairs of gloves

The first half of the 90 minute was comfortable. Of course, I was also chugging up a slight rise most of the way. I need new shoe covers, as the BellWeathers I have don’t cover the bottom of the shoes, and the carbon-soled road shoes don’t offer much insulation. Coming back along the lower part of Saxonburg was fairly painful, given the downhill (meaning higher speeds with less effort), massive headwind, and freezer-like effect of the narrow run (there was still snow on part of the road). The rest of kit performed well, though. This was the first time I wore the Patagonia jacket for a recreational ride (I wear it for the commute) and it worked very well.

I see, however, that I missed my opportunity to get outside today, as the road is now snow-covered, and I don’t have enough time to get to Frick on the mountain bike.