In the Sacramento area winter can be a very enjoyable cycling season. Rain is generally the exception and temperatures seldom drop below freezing. The key to extending your cycling season through the winter months is to dress properly.
Different parts of your body need different types of protection. Your head, even with a helmet, accounts for a large percent of your heat loss so it is important to keep your head warm. Your torso or core can warm up and cool down quickly so layering is important. Your hands and feet don't generate much heat so they need special protection. Your legs generate a lot of heat but still need a little protection.
Cyclists have many options for cold weather cycling and at times the choices can be confusing. So below we've outlined a "typical" setup for a "typical" winter's day. It's by no means the only setup. Many cyclist have their own preferences as to the exact gear that they wear. You may want to check out the winter gear pages at the top of this page for more information.
This clothing list should be a good starting point for winter riding. From this starting point you can add or subtract layers depending on your tolerance to cold and the weather conditions. There are many gear options so please check out the winter gear pages for more information.
Remember staying comfortable is a balancing act between regulating your temperature and managing your perspiration. An old cross-country ski adage says "Stay cool and stay dry". This applies equally to cycling. So to "Stay cool and stay dry" dress a little lighter than you think you should. IF YOU ARE WARM IN THE PARKING LOT, YOU ARE OVERDRESSED. You will normally be cold for the first 15-20 minutes of riding but after that you should be cool and comfortable.
See what other Bike Hikers think about winter riding ... Riders Comments
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Different parts of your body need different types of protection. Your head, even with a helmet, accounts for a large percent of your heat loss so it is important to keep your head warm. Your torso or core can warm up and cool down quickly so layering is important. Your hands and feet don't generate much heat so they need special protection. Your legs generate a lot of heat but still need a little protection.
Cyclists have many options for cold weather cycling and at times the choices can be confusing. So below we've outlined a "typical" setup for a "typical" winter's day. It's by no means the only setup. Many cyclist have their own preferences as to the exact gear that they wear. You may want to check out the winter gear pages at the top of this page for more information.
| Head | - | Skullcap + Helmet |
| Torso & Arms | - | Arm-Warmers + Lightweight Jersey + Windbreaker |
| Legs | - | Cycling Shorts + Leg-Warmers |
| Feet | - | Sox + Shoes + Toe Covers |
| Hands | - | Lightweight Long-fingered Gloves |
| Base Layer (Option) |
- | A lightweight thermal base layer is a popular addition to the above clothing |
Remember staying comfortable is a balancing act between regulating your temperature and managing your perspiration. An old cross-country ski adage says "Stay cool and stay dry". This applies equally to cycling. So to "Stay cool and stay dry" dress a little lighter than you think you should. IF YOU ARE WARM IN THE PARKING LOT, YOU ARE OVERDRESSED. You will normally be cold for the first 15-20 minutes of riding but after that you should be cool and comfortable.
See what other Bike Hikers think about winter riding ... Riders Comments
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