Bicycle Commuting Mama: A Little Wind?
I’ve been bicycle commuting through all weathers this winter in Portland, Oregon. In December we had a week of sub-freezing temperatures, as well as the usual rain. A snowfall, fortunately, came while I was on winter break, and I didn’t have to ride in it. Last week, we had the rain that wouldn’t quit. Today it was a house-shaking, window-rattling east wind.
So what do you need to know about bicycle commuting in the wind?
Dress for cold. Even if weather.com says it’s in the high 40s, you’ll probably feel cold, and even more so if it’s raining at all. So wear your woollens, hat, scarf, gloves, etc.
Tuck your scarf in. You don’t want that thing blowing around. Put your scarf on first, then your coat. If you like , pull the scarf over your mouth. But do you remember this from the Little House books?
Laura’s veil was a slab of frost against her mouth that made speaking uncomfortable…
–These Happy Golden Years, Laura Ingalls Wilder
If it’s cold enough, and your scarf is over your mouth, you too will have a slab of frost. But if it’s not cold enough, your scarf may just get slimy! Yum!
Wear pants. Well, there are probably people who can and will wear a skirt anyway. I’m not one of them. A straight skirt that won’t fly up at all might work. But pants are warmer.
Wear your leg bands. Even if you have an effective chain guard like I do, the leg bands will keep your pants from blowing around and will keep cold air out.
Tie everything down. Make sure your belongings are secure. If you’re an Xtracycle rider, tighten up your Freeloader bags so that everything inside is secure.
Yell into the wind. I do.
“Howl! blast you! howl!” he shouted. “We’re all here safe! You can’t get at us! You’ve tried all winter but we’ll beat you yet!”
–Pa Ingalls, The Long Winter, Laura Ingalls Wilder
OK, I don’t yell that. But I do sometimes let out an “Aaaaaarrrrrgh!” when the wind is pushing me back. It helps.
Other helpful posts on bicycle commuting:
Photo by Sarah McDevitt http://www.flickr.com/photos/smcdevitt/ / CC BY 2.0
