At the beginning of Autumn, it feels much like summer, and if it wasn't for the date we couldn't exactly tell when the season changes. But by mid-October the temperature plummets and will hover in the mid 50s for highs - that's when Autumn truly begins in Vermont.
On the same note, I've noticed bicycle-related seasonal shifts, those signs that a commuter cyclist deals with when the weather takes a dive.
Sadly, I can no longer wear sandals, even with socks. I rummage in the closet and dig out my hiking footwear.
I wear a head band beneath my helmet to keep my ears warm.
I don fleece gloves, daily, and sometimes windproof mittens.
I need a windproof jacket, every day, and often on the ride home.
Shorts? Brrrr. I can't imagine wearing shorts until next May. Under Armour cold weather tights are essential.
A cold cable lock is stiff. I struggle to unwind it to wrap it around my bicycle.
I no longer need sunglasses for either direction of my commute. The sun is so low in the sky that I wear clear safety glasses for eye protection.
Lights! Gotta have 'em and prepare to keep the USB headlight charged. And with a cloudy sky today, I used my headlight for the first time, as I pedaled home.
And lastly, with snow flurries forecast this week, I am wondering how long I can keep commuting this year...and on weekends for pleasure, hopefully at least through the coffeeneuring challenge!
As I was reading through your list I realized I was a spoiled citizen of a temperate city and fair weather commuter when the subject of cable locks being hard to use in the cold....never had that issue although in my defense I use U-Locks in combo with a cable to secure my wheels.
ReplyDeleteI learned how to bike commute year-round in Portland Oregon, where my husband and I lived for 10 years so I understand the rain issue - I rode in LL Bean boots to keep my feet dry!
DeleteWhen I moved back here, the thought of riding in the winter, where it's pretty dang cold, was the furthest thing from my mind...until last winter's mildness and 5 mile commute had me thinking otherwise. I'm hoping for a normal winter this year though - I love to crosscountry ski - but if the conditions are just right, I'll squeeze in a few rides, just because I know I can do it. You can teach an old dog new tricks!
I have been retired for a few years and the only thing I miss about work is the bike commute. But I do commute to the coffee shop every day.
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