The temperature was around -10°C when I hopped on my bike for a 70KM bike ride. It wasn't going to be 70KM straight, but a round trip with a lengthy (and warm) break in the middle. I was biking to a Kelseys at the border of Burlington and Oakville for a Humble and Fred live recording.
With temperatures that low, most would consider me crazy for going on two rides in excess of two hours each. Well, I am a little crazy, because I saw this as a challenge. But I'm not interested in frost bite or losing any valuable appendages, so I did prepare for this long, cold ride west.
- Inside each of my mittens I slid a hotshot packet that provided warmth
- I wore my winter boots
- I wore two balaclavas under my helmet to keep my ears warm
- I layered up with four layers under my jacket
When I arrived at my destination, the only part of my body that felt cold was my toes. On the ride home, everything felt fine. 4+ hours of riding in a deep freeze and I survived to tell the tale.
One obvious thing though.... a 70km ride in 20°C and a 70km ride in -10°C are not the same thing. This 70km ride kicked my ass.
