I started this virtual  in June 13, 2023 and I started riding outside forgetting to finish this up. The virtual tours were used to motivate my exercise during the COVID time.  I have just been busy riding outside and not interested in doing it again.   Because I need to get excited to ride the trainers now that the temperatures are below freezing, I decided to finish this Atlantic route going north. If you want to look at the earlier segments go back to June 13, 2023 and scroll earlier.

Part way through the day's ride I go through Danbury, CT which used to be called "Hat City" for centuries. Mercuric nitrate was used in the process and it was discovered that as it was absorbed into the skin of the workers they  developed shakes and other issues that were called, "Mad hatter disease."  Finally in 1941 the state banned the use of mercury in the processing of hats.  Stetson hats were the last major hat manufacturer to close their factory in 1964, by the late 1980s there were no hat factories in town.

These are also known as the Enfield Falls Canal.  It was constructed in the 19th century to go around rapids in the Connecticut River.  It is no longer in use, but there is a state park trail for  us to enjoy.

My last outside ride  was November 13th. I am making the transition to rides on the trainers and look forward to a good day to go outside for a short ride of  one to two hours through the next months.  

My cut off for riding outside is 50 degrees F and I chose to wear these items so I enjoy my time outside. Not all 50s are the same. The wind makes it colder due to the windchill. The items in the photo were comfortable with conditions in the upper 30s.  For weather below freezing I would add a leg base layer, a second long sleeve layer and windproof gloves.

I consider the jacket and the fleece neck gaiter to be the keys.  The jacket is windproof to 30 mph winds with pit zips that help keep my inside free of sweat.  The neck gaiter allows the incoming air to warm up to help my lungs and having a toasty neck really helps with comfort.

The legs will do fine with just sweatpants.  I do have winter fleece lined cycling pants, but the sweatpants work great for the winter short daily rides.

Your body may handle the cold differently, but most people complain about cold hands or feet. Trail and error is how we find what works best for our thermostat.  If your first few minutes feel cold you may have the layers right. 

I found that regular cycling or hiking shoes work great for about an hour and after that my toes get cold.  I already had the winter outdoor boots and they work great on my flat pedals. You will find some winter specific items that will work on your winter rides, but you might find effective items already in your closet.  For awhile I just used my Carhart winter hooded jacket.

Enjoy your winter rides.

Around this time in 2010 I started thinking about preparing for a long tour, which became Trace the Mitten.

The upcoming cold and snowy months do not make for good training weather, but I know from experience that there is enough to occupy you. What do I need for getting ready physically? What equipment do I have and what do I need to purchase or borrow?  Where would I ride and when do I want to go?  Do I need to include anyone else in my planning?

There are many details to start thinking about. The Adventure Cycling Association is a tremendous source of information about touring. That was one of the first places I searched.   adventurecycling.org   I also checked out my local library and found several books on cycle touring.   bikepacking.com is another wonderful source of information.

This is a time when many take a break from heavy training and it is a good time to make plans for the warm weather trips.

What good resources have you used?

This week looks iffy for riding outside with rain predictions and temperatures in the 40s.

I will take care of this  bike first.  I store the bikes in an unheated garage to keep the wet weather off.  I place cardboard under the tires to provide a buffer between the cold cement.  I also set out a disposable dampness collectors from the hardware store. Throughout the winter I would add air to the tires as needed.  These precautions worked last year and the bike was ready when in the spring.

General battery awareness leads me take the it inside for the winter, because the temperature is warmer and better for battery life.

What else should I do?  I found out to only
1. charge the battery to 60-70% .
2. Store in a cool, dry place and out of the sun. Regular house temperatures would be safe.
3. The battery may lose some charge, so check the loss during the winter.  Recharge to 60-70%. Do not let the battery totally discharge. 
4. When you are ready to ride that is the time to charge the battery to full 100%.

The fields will have corn, soybeans, wheat,  and hay.

I find a peace in riding these roads through the year.  I know that I am not alone. I hope that you enjoyed this three part series on riding the country roads.

Part of the enjoyment of the country roads is that they are different every ride.  You may have to look very closely, but there are changes;  animals may be by the road, and there are beautiful wild flowers.

Usually the flower gardens are not close to the road, but wildflowers add colors at different months.

This entry will finish up with some unusual animals for the Midwest states.

Look for part 3 soon.