Fair Weather
It’s almost winter. The weather has been changing and there have been some pretty rainy days. While the weather’s gross and I have other transportation options, I still end up on my bike.
I’ve been told I’m weird, but it’s all relative. Everybody’s bad weather commute has an element of the ridiculous.
And while I don’t really like being out in the elements it still makes the most sense to me. After all, rain is just water and a bike is just the quickest way through the mess. All weather is fair weather if you have a good raincoat.
Yup. Cold rain is actually easier — I can just put the rain gear on over my regular work clothes. Warm rain is annoying. Waterproof bags (I use a SeaLine kayaking duffel) are also key.
I rather enjoy rainy day commutes, except for the days when the temperature is just above freezing and the nasty, gluey, frigid raindrops drill into my face like cold needles. Otherwise, the rain (or snow) is refreshing and puts an entirely different glimmer on the world through which I ride.
Yesterday and today, visiting Seattle, I rode in the region’s hallmark November rain, joining hundreds of other yellow slicker clad cyclists busily making their way through the city. In particular, I was impressed by the sight of scores of blinky-light bikes with yellow-clad riders emerging in a large phalanx from the Seattle ferries through the pre-dawn gloom. Nobody seemed to even notice the rain!
I think wet weather commuting is all relative: relative to your tolerances, safety, bike, clothing, and commute. What works for some doesn’t work for others. I’m glad that Bikeface found her happy gound.