I got back into cycling (mostly gravel and paved multi-use path) about a year and a half ago. Last winter, I more or less put biking aside and just tried to do more walking instead.
This year, I’m trying to continue biking a bit more throughout the winter because firstly, I enjoy it, and second I don’t want to be as out of shape come spring.
I’ve gotten myself some warmer gear (not a ton). I’ve given myself permission to just try to get some seat time in while not really pushing for distance or speed.
Lately the weather has been more of a challenge and I’m feeling myself falling behind.
So, what’s the community’s approach to winter?
Do you suck it up and go for it like it’s still summer? Move into the garage/basement and go 100% indoor trainer?
Lately it’s been cold + actively snowing, so it just hasn’t been appealing to go out and ride. Like another commenter mentioned there’s also the factor of it getting dark early. So, it’s really just been a lack of motivation on my part recently.
I’ve been trying out different layering to try to get temps in the sweet not too hot/not too cold spot. Still got more work to do, but am getting there. One thing I found has helped was to throw a handlebar bag on in colder temps - makes it easier to stash something if I get warmer than expected or have some additional if it’s colder… beats having a backpack that gets my back sweaty.
Ah darkness yes, I have a good headlamp so I have 2 bright spots to see both where I will be in a second and anywhere I look.
How cold is it where you are?