Not quite 7k

Today was my last ride of the year. I needed 26 miles to make 6900 for another record breaking year. Normally this would be easy but today's temps were a blustery 25 degrees. To say it was cold would be an understatement. I dressed as warm as possible but keeping fingers and toes toasty is always a challenge. Even the fairing offered little protection on those fast downhill descents. My muscles never warmed and that cold thick air made riding feel like your pedaling through mud and molasses. My wife thinks I'm crazy riding today. Tomorrow promises even colder weather. Riding on New Year's Day, now that would be crazy!

Happy New Year!!!

Balmy Day

Out of the Arctic for a welcomed 50 degree day.  It was still cold in the morning so I opted for a late start. Not trusting our illustrious forecasters, I decided to err on the side of caution and wear my warmest gear. It is better to take away than wish to receive. There was plenty of snow on the ground and I was reluctant to take the 2 wheeler. Fenders on all my bikes is a must and I was more than grateful today. A 30 mile ride seemed just right before a final stop at the store.  The next 2 days promise even warmer weather but unfortunately I have committed to work. My only regret was not adding another 10 miles for this weather might not appear again for some time.

Bike path not cleared

Rest stop

Last stop at the market

Too Much Time On My Hands

3 Wheelin in Winter

In this weather I prefer the stability of 3 wheels. Patches of ice and snow make for great concern of wheels sliding out from under. In addition the roads are more narrow with accumulations left on the shoulder. The Greenway with it's higher stance and road presence provide even greater security. It doesn't offer the weather protection as my rides with fairings, but long rides in sub-freezing temps are just too insane, even for me. It's open cock-pit and easy on/off allow me to bulk dress. This is a very difficult time for me so any way I can get out and ride is good. Today's 22 mile ride was just about right. Only issue, cold toes.

Love my Wool Walz Cap

Fun In The Snow

Technical Difficulties

The other day I went out for a 30 mile ride. 20 miles into the ride I developed chain suck. Not being able to immediately diagnose the problem, I limped home slowly. I did not want to apply any more pedal pressure than absolutely necessary. The last thing I needed was a broken chain. It was a very cold day so I just put the bike away and headed inside. I am fortunate to have other rides so immediate repair was not necessary. I have a great mechanic, Van of Bicycle Rack in Hightstown, but he is a good 20 minute drive. Because of that and the added effort to load bikes on my car, I have learned to do most repairs. The internet, newsgroups and YouTube have proven quite valuable. Further investigation revealed a broken link. An easy fix. I did order some extra spare parts like chain, cassette, quick links and chain wear tool. Nice to have on-hand. Being holiday season I found great prices from JensonUsa.
Today's 30 mile ride proved all is good again.

Feeling Groovy