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| I set out for a reconnaissance at lunchtime to check bike path conditions. |
It always takes me by surprise: the first snow storm, plummeting temperatures, a low pressure system that lingers for days. A depressive mood marks the end of safe, regular bike commutes.
The transition is difficult, especially in early to mid-November, to give up commuting to work. For the second year in a row I will struggle to complete the
Coffeeneuring Challenge, but if I manage the final stop will be a special one, a culmination of sorts!
The double-whammy: the time change and weather patterns are occurring -
much like last year - at the same time this November. Transition to navigating with lights, body rhythms in flux, all while adjusting mindset to taking the bus and/or driving more.
But though the shift has been abrupt, I'll walk more and set up indoor projects. I have mini panniers to finish for the Dahon, research to do on new handlebars for Miss Clementine, other sewing projects, cleaning closets, painting of rooms...
I'll get there, physically and emotionally, just a little earlier than I expected.
Cycling on hard packed snow and ice is not for me, even if I had studded tyres I dont think I would do it.
ReplyDeleteI have a pair of studded tires, a holdover from when my son loved to ride to school, but I won't put them on my bike. I don't want to be tempted into false security. I will still ride sporadically throughout the winter when the weather is just right - everyday riding is definitely over until spring.
DeleteYou have my sympathy. The difficulty of cycling in icy conditions always makes the onset of winter weather more painful than if you are just a walker.
ReplyDeleteSounds like someone needs a fat bike .... (says the enabler)
ReplyDeleteNext year's cold weather riding will require an adjustment, that's for sure, because my bike commute will be 9.5 miles! Also, we'll be two miles from the nearest bus... May swap the Trek Antelope for a mountain bike!
DeleteThat's 9.5 miles each way. Maybe I'll need those studded tires after all.
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