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

Before The Storm

Got a ride in before the storm. Sanity and safety kept it to 12 miles.

Before

Freezing Drizzle

Only Cyclist

It was a cold start and only got colder.
The only cyclist I saw today.

I expect even less tomorrow!

Winter Woe n Wear

One of the features I love most about recumbent riding is I can wear pretty much anything. No special clothes required. The best is Summer, shorts, t-shirt and sandals. Everyday attire and out the door. Unfortunately, Winter riding requires thought and preparation. It doesn't matter whether you darn Walmart put together or techie bike clothes. It still requires work. You have to check the weather and figure out what layers are best. Do I need the super heavy weight shirt? Wool cap, balaclava and which gloves to wear. No such thing as, I'll hop on the bike for a quick run to the store. Not a big deal for weekend warriors on a club ride, but is, if you use your bike for both sport and errands. Nothing like walking into the local market looking like some alien from outer space. It's a good thing I'm not too shy. The other issue is laundry and plenty of it. After all, I'm wearing two sets of clothes on each ride. It takes a lot to get out and ride but as my son says " it's better than being warm n toasty at work".