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Bicycle Rides, Rambles and Blogs

January 1, 2014 – My First Ride of 2014

With a winter storm predicted for January 2nd and 3rd, I decided to take advantage of the clear roads and get in a ride for January.  I want to keep my string of riding at least one day per month.  Well, that string is not in danger until at least February 28th.   So I ventured out on my ride.

I got off to a later start than I wanted.  I rolled out at about 1:30 p.m. heading on a southwest route to Upton, Mass.  I planned a 33 mile loop.  I was fighting the low winter sun, in my eyes, while heading southwest.   When I looped back towards home it was not a problem.

My biggest problem was a stupid mistake on my part.  I didn’t wear booties.  I thought two pair of wool socks under my cycling shoes would be adequate.  I was wrong.  Your body does not produce enough circulation in cold weather to reach the extremities.  Also if you have aluminum pedals they act as heat sinks in that they draw heat away.  So my feet were damn cold by the time I got home.  I warm otherwise in the 23 degree weather.

Overall I did 33 miles in a little over 2:30 minutes  By the time I was rolling into my driveway my lights were working well and I am glad I had them.

Stay safe out there in the cold weather.

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