Reflection, Reparation, Repentation, Rejuvination, and Recreation

Reflection, Reparation, Repentation, Rejuvination, and Recreation
Having fun on the Midnight Beast

Sunday, November 10, 2013

Buck Hill Adventures

The Three Hour Tour From Quincy
 Was trying to get some action shots to send to Transition....at Dead Sailors Loop, above, and below....
and,  Buck-in it!



Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Winter layering--don't get caught in the cold!


You ask: Steve, how do you prepare for riding in the cold??
I answer:
I start with a good wicking longsleeve base layer. EMS Techwick works great and you can usually find last years colors on sale or hit one of their sales. Smart wool is even better but pricier. Another breathable shortsleeve layer (bike jersey or tech T) over that and a breathable shell and you're good. Oh yeah, pants. regular bike shorts under long tights or bib tights. Duct tape your vented shoes or get a pair of winter booties to go over them. Winter shoes are also pricey but well worth it. Don't damage your feet like I did kids, keep them warm!  Also, keep the melon covered. Again, a thin wool cap or headsweat under the brain bucket. Wool or tech socks and at least lull fingered gloves if not lightly insulated gloves.  You should feel a little chill in the parking lot. Once you get cranking you'll warm up. May even need to unzip or remove your shell.  If you stop for any length of time you will feel the chill again, which is why I carry an emergency space blanket in my pack .if you are immobilized for some reason it could save your life.
You may find you need another layer at temps below 20 and a neck warmer...general rule is if you keep your core warm, your extremities will stay warm. If your fingers or toes are feeling icy, stop after you ride 20 minutes or so, and you'll feel them warm up. Experiment with layering all parts, this is just what works for me, but I hope it helps!