Summer is fast approaching and our few sunny days are a welcome change, but they can also be misleading. What starts off as a warm sunny ride can be a frigid return trip home. Planning ahead will help you have a pleasant ride, no matter what time of day you’re riding.
JUST PACK THE RAIN GEAR
30% chance of precipitation. Do you risk it and skip the rain gear? NO! Just pack your rain gear. Summery weather inspires us to travel light in flittery skirts and tank tops, but at this transitional time of year you never know when those sunny skies will turn grey and dump rain. Just pack the rain gear and hope you don’t need to put it on.
LONG SLEEVES AT NIGHT
If the day is extremely warm, chances are the nighttime will be, too. But if there’s even a slight breeze, it’ll be chiller than you think. Pack long sleeves for those super hot days that go late. If the day isn’t in the mid 80’s – or if you get cold easily – pack a sweatshirt for your night ride home.
LAYER UP
Start with a base layer of something like a flattering tank top that you don’t mind wearing with nothing over it, and layer up with a t-shirt, a long sleeve, maybe a vest or a jacket. As you ride and warm up, and as the day warms up, you can remove layers until you’re down to what’s hopefully only a summery tank top as you bask in the sun.
If you like biking in skirts, consider bike shorts underneath for extra warmth and secure coverage. On cool mornings, leg warmers or tall socks are a great idea. Sock Dreams, based in Sellwood and online, caters to bikers with warm and cozy cool and funky socks that reach up as far as your thigh – perfect for changing weather..
SUNSCREEN
If you’re removing layers, remember that this may be the first sun those naked arms have seen for quite a while. So if you haven’t spent your winter relaxing in the Riviera, slap on the sunscreen and protect your skin.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO GO BARE
We’re not talking the World Naked Ride here (it’s not until June 8), but on warm days don’t be afraid to take off that neon yellow jacket. Feeling the breeze on your arms and the sun on your skin is good rejuvenating. Oregonian’s don’t get much of that vitamin D, so soak it in while you can.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR SUMMER?
What are your tips for riding in this transitional time of year? Share your ideas below.
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