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- FIRST
AND MOST IMPORTANT - SLOW DOWN!!!
Traction and visibility is
limited in the fog and rain. Use lights and reflectors whenever
possible. Don't forget, fog can also make street and pathway surfaces
as wet as rainfall.
- Wear bright colors.
They help other riders and motorists see you.
- Braking and stopping
in wet weather, it takes longer to engage, and longer to stop
your bike, and it is much easier to skid or slide your wheels
as you brake. So, start braking earlier and more gradually than
you would on dry ground.
- Beware puddles.
They can be deceiving, you truly have no idea what lies beneath
the surface. You may want to ride around puddles to avoid potholes,
cracks in the pavement or other things that lie hidden underwater.
Even the debris that gathers in these low spots can be dangerous,
or cause unwanted flat tires.
- Get some fenders.
Rain in our area rarely lasts all day, so our rain and fog situations
rarely require a full rain suit. Protecting yourself against water
sprayed up from the streets is the main issue. A light waterproof
jacket and fenders should be all you need. Invest in some removable
fenders that will dramatically help keep you and your bike clean
from the muck and water on the road.
- Ride with a friend or group.
Chatting and drafting helps the miles go by more enjoyably. But
don't let group rides become hammerfests. Avoid hard, fast riding
when the temperature is below 50F degrees (10C). Instead, stay
steady and bank base miles.
- Don't
overdress. You should feel chilly for the first few minutes
before pedaling warms you up. If you start off toasty you'll soon
overheat, sweat can become uncomfortable in damp clothes.
- Beware of tight shoes.
Wearing thick socks can make your cycling shoes too tight. Feet
freeze fast when circulation is reduced. If this is a problem,
buy a larger pair of shoes for winter rides. Roomy booties are
a good idea too.
- Ventilate.
Your jacket should have a front zipper with a large tab that's
easy to find and grip while wearing long-finger gloves. Zip down
when climbing or riding with the wind, and anytime you sense body
heat building up. The drier you stay, the longer you can ride
without a chill setting in.
- Install a taillight.
And carry a pair of reflective ankle bands. The sun sets with
a thud in winter so you might get caught by dusk several miles
from home.
- Carry two tubes.
When your fingers are freezing it's easier to install tubes than
it is to patch them.
- Make stops brief.
The longer you're off the bike, the chillier it feels when you
start riding again.
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