Today's picture: My workhorse is cleaned up and ready for winter weather. But first, let's enjoy the crisp autumn air.
If your bike is equipped with lots of lights, as mine is, riding in the chill of autumn mornings can be a whole lot of fun. This morning I was out on the streets before dawn and rode home under the full moon. With perfectly clear skies and no sloppy puddles to dampen my cuffs, these are the days that invite one to throw on a dark wool suit, white shirt, and striped silk tie as you might in Copenhagen or New York.
While many sport cyclists are hanging up their bikes for the winter, I find autumn to be perfect weather for cycling. This morning I woke up to temperatures near 40 and no wind. The ride home was in the 50s.
With the heat of your own internal combustion engine pounding in your chest, 50 degrees feels more like 70. I barely break a sweat. It's a whole lot easier to ride dressed for the day, rather than hauling clothes on the bike, showering and changing downtown. In the heat of summer I have little choice. And on sloppy winter days I'm more likely to carry my suit just in case of foul weather. But autumn days are some of the best days for biking in the city.
Even in the worst weather, if you're prepared for it and can transport a change of clothes, the worst days shouldn't pose an obstacle unless there's ice on the ground. You can adapt.
I put the rain shield on my helmet today. The winter kit blocks the helmet's vents. Ear flaps block harsh winds. I'm ready for the worst and hoping for the best.
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PS: Remember, every lane is a bike lane. Share the road.
freewheelin
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Enjoy the ride home.
Today's picture: My workhorse is cleaned up and ready for winter weather. But first, let's enjoy the crisp autumn air.
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