Riding diminished in the North Country..

Well, winter style weather is here in NH, that means cold and possible snow. This does tend to cut into our riding, especially the LD variety.

My recent Mich. trip was by car and I had not actually taken a ride for over a week. Tuesday, I got home from work and fired up both bikes, taking the Shadow for a short ride before dinner. It was about 40 and I was slightly cold, open helmet, limited wind protection and my lighter gloves. After dinner, I switched to heavier gloves and took the Wing out. I was actually pretty comfortable with the added wind protection and also the heated grips helped.

Today it was 30 deg F when I left for work. I took the Wing, layered up with shirt, sweateshirt, fleece lining and denim jacket. I was actually reasonably comfortable, had my grip heater running with heavier gloves. My lower legs and feet were chilled slightly but I know for a "ride" I can improve that with my boots and heavier hunting socks, thermals etc. Overall , I was pleased with my comfort level, yet also realize that it was NOT a LD ride and also I was averaging around 40 and maxing at about 55 mph, a far cry from the windchill I would face on a longer highway ride.

Why does all this matter??? I am planning on attemping an Iron Butt Association 1000 mile ride the first week of March. In NH, it will NOT be warm and also may have white moisture issues (snow). I am doing this little jaunts to find out how I handle the chills (mental and physical) at various temperatures and speeds. Those in the "know" may start yelling "Gerbings" (heated jacket liner and gloves) and I do plan on getting these heated items before my attempted run. In the meantime, I want to feel the affects of the cold weather and how I can protect now, figuring that with electrics later I will only be better. I already have my bike wired for them and it can easily handle the electrical load.

Enough rambling for today.... Time for me to get back to work... I will likely not be riding the rest of the week as I work a double tomorrow and Saturday I have to pick up my bike trailer in MA and then am attending a Comedy Night with some friends out in Exeter.

Have a great day and as always "Ride Safe"