Riding in the rain and cold

Just read and commented on a post from the fat cyclist. One thing lead to another so here are some more thoughts.

The question comes up now and again: why do you ride in the rain? Why do you ride when it is so cold? The simple answer: because I can and I want to.

When I started commuting by bicycle 8 years ago, I only do it 2-3 times a week when it is not raining. I don't have the appropriate rain gear nor was I prepared to deal with cars and splashes and other problems. This went on for about 2 years. Then a new colleague who also commutes showed me what gear to get and soon I ride more and more. Now it is just natural to wake up, check the weather report and outside conditions, put on the right gear and go.

Riding in the cold is actually not hard. The body just naturally generates heat to keep you warm. The next issue to deal with is keeping your fingers, toes and ears warm.

Ice remains my biggest enemy. I generally stop riding for about 10-15 days during dead winter to avoid hitting ice. A few years back I spilled a few times. That's why I haven't conquered it. I still see commuters on the road and sometimes wonder how they can do it. Then again I watch racers go and also wonder how they can do it.