CYCLING IN INCREMENT WEATHER

Don’t’ let the rain keep you indoors. The right equipment, proper clothing and these few tips will keep your wheels spinning in good weather and in bad.  

WET WEATHER CYCLING

• LIGHTS:  Use a front headlight and a flashing red taillight.
• AVOID PUDDLES:  Puddles can hide potholes and other roadside debris.
• AVOID FOG LINES:  Painted features can be slippery when wet.
• AVOID WET LEAVES:  Wet leaves can cause you to lose control.
• BRAKE EARLY:  Stopping distance while riding (unless you have disc brakes) will be increased. Lightly pulse the brakes to remove water from the rims – avoid breaking hard. Never brake or corner in the center of the roadway at intersections - these are some of the oiliest sections of the road.
• TIRE PRESSURE Check your tire pressure. Proper air pressure is related to the rider, bike weight, road conditions, cycling trails and weather in your area. A cycling coach or cycling vendor/sales representative can help you determine the right tire pressure.
• TAKE YOUR TIME:  Slowing down lets you detect and react to hazard roadways.
• STAY ALERT:  Driver’s see what you see and in increment weather you are equally challenged. Bright clothing and lights aren't always visible in heavy rain and nighttime fog. Be guarded – don’t take chances, be watchful – when things look really bad they are really bad, take cover, be extra cautious 

WET WEATHER GEAR.  

The wetter you get the colder you are going to be. Being cold and wet is a quick way to get sick. Keep your core warm – enjoy the ride regardless of the weather.

• FENDERS:  Protect yourself, your equipment and other cyclist. Reduce road spray kicked up by your bike, while protecting your feet and lower legs. Today’s fenders are an upgrade from earlier fenders. They are versatile, easy to put on, easily removed, and a must have in increment weather.
• WATERPROOF CLOTHING: A waterproof cycling jacket is a must. Pit zips, ventilation, proper cuffs and more are important in choosing the proper jacket.  Waterproof pants are also a must, along with proper socks, booties and shoe covers, waterproof gloves, hand and foot warmers, and a helmet cover - all basic bad weather necessities.  
• REFLECTIVE PRODUCTS AND WEAR:  Yes, it might not be the most appealing for some but it can be a life saver in cloudy, foggy, rainy or snowy weather. Today’s reflective products are easily affixed and just as easily removed. Being seen is a lot more important than looking “Kool”.
• EYEWEAR:  In low light, clear or yellow lenses for eye protection are critical.  When riding in the rain sunglasses will cut out light, making road obstacles hard to see.  Fight the fog with anti-fog drops and lens wipes. Lens wipes vary – tell your sales rep or cycling coach what type of weather you’ll be riding in. 

Cycling as a commuter, a professional cyclist, or as a way to stay fit and healthy can be fun in any kind of weather.  LEGENDS Bicycles and Accessories will meet all of your cycling needs; Bike sales, Bike repair, Bike maintenance, Bike accessories, Bike inspection, Bike training, and Bike Coaching.