News of the Month October/November
 
In many parts of the country the weather is turning cold, some are thinking snow but others are thinking this is the best time to ride because it is cooler and less humid. It is possible to continue riding no matter what your weather conditions, with some careful planning and a little extra knowledge even as the days grow shorter and colder. Safety should always be your first priority when riding your bicycle but at this time of year when many people hang up their bike shorts for a few months, it is especially important to remember that without a little extra care and effort on your part, you may be setting yourself up for an accident. Let’s start with some basics; Fall has arrived with it’s rain or snow showers and the leaves are falling off the trees and onto the ground. These leaves get wet and become very slippery. The top layer may be dry but the underneath could still be wet and very slippery. No matter how good the grip on your tire is, your bike may slip on wet leaves. Remember not to dive into the corners and slow down whenever there are leaves on the road.   Clothing is an important item to take into consideration at this time of year no matter what part of the country you live in. The temperature can change in some areas as much as 35-40 degrees within a few hours. Just because when you started on your ride it was 75 and sunny, don’t forget that as dusk it is going to be 45 and the sun is going to be diving in to the horizon looking for it’s own warmth. This also is true first thing in the morning but on the reverse. Remember just because it is 45 and foggy at 7am, doesn’t mean that by 10am that it won’t be 75 and sunny. Take a few minutes and check your local weather station when planning your trip. There is nothing worse then to be too hot or too cold or very wet while you are trying to enjoy your ride. Layering is the easiest way to make sure you have all the elements covered.  Don’t forget your gloves, ear warmers and  rain suits. If you are going to still be out at dusk don’t forget to bring along clear eye protection.  Last but not least please remember that drivers are less attentive to the fact that there may be bikes on the road this time of year, so it is important be visible. Extra lighting on your bike, light colored clothing and even reflective stripes are the best way to be seen.  The more visible you are the safer you are !  With the weather conditions turning so quickly this may be the time to change up your workout by digging out that lost exercise bike from your basement or garage and giving it a whirl.  This also is also a good opportunity to try something new like a spin class or a healthy cardio routine at your local gym.  Whatever you decide to do as the cold weather sets in,  just try to remember that it won’t last for long and very soon you can be back on your favorite trails, doing your favorite thing...riding your bike !!

 
Staff Reporter Vikki Leonard