Racking My Bike

It's been awhile, two weeks at least, since I've been on my bike.  All week I had been planning on trying to get in a 20 mile ride, which would be my longest ride to date.  Yesterday I had a chance to get out.  It was windy, and about 45 degrees.  That ride taught me a lot about riding a bike...

1. 45 degrees is cold on a bike.  I would probably still wear shorts to run in 45 degree weather, but I was underdressed for a bike ride (in shorts and compression socks, gloves, and a jacket).  My hands, face, top of my legs, and feet were freezing.

2. I almost scrapped the ride altogether because it was so windy.  But then decided to go for it because it could be windy on race day (that's what I always say about X element: It could be hot on race day, raining on race day, etc), so if you don't practice in it, you won't really be ready.  Wind on my bike makes me a little nervous for a couple of reasons.  First, because I ride on the road, and wind blows me all over the place.  Second, wind gusts make me feel unsteady, and unsteady with my feet clipped to the pedals makes me feel like I could go down.

3. A headwind is basically like riding up the longest hill you can imagine.  I had to ride 3 gears higher on the way back because the wind was so strong.

Basically, I have no idea how to dress for riding in the elements.  I don't know what is proper for cycling.  Running outside is acceptable year round, but I certainly wouldn't dream of taking my bike out if it was snowing, and the cold of yesterday sealed the deal for me.  No need to punish myself by riding outside in freezing cold winter.  I hope to acquire a bike trainer for this winter, and (if the Y would offer a spin class at a normal time) take a spin class or two.  While my bike is up for the winter, I definitely need to take it in for a tune up.  It's always had a rattle in about 3rd gear and it's getting worse, and sometimes feels like it shifts more than one gear going up.  I don't know enough to know if it's a bad part or if I'm doing something wrong.

Tomorrow is race day again...Girls on the Run 5k!