Which Do You Prefer? Cycling in the Heat or the Cold
Which Do You Prefer? Cycling in the Heat or the Cold?
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☀️ Cycling in the Heat (My Pick!)
Look — I’ve ridden in every kind of weather West Texas can throw at a person. For me, heat wins. My body feels alive, my cadence is smoother, and I don’t spend half the ride wrestling layers.
Pros
- Sunlight boosts mood & energy: A bright sky hits different when you’re grinding out miles.
- No bulky layers: Just bib shorts, a jersey, and that’s it. Freedom.
- Hydration rituals: Cold water on a hot ride is its own religion.
Cons
- Heat sneaks up on you: You don’t feel dehydrated until you’re cooked.
- Sunburn risk: I’ve had some scorchings that taught me hard lessons.
- Chafing/sweat issues: Without good bib shorts, heat can make you miserable.
❄️ Cycling in the Cold
I won’t pretend cold riding is all misery. There’s beauty to it — crisp air, wide-open roads, and a quiet that summer never gives you. But the discomfort is real.
Pros
- Quiet roads: Fewer cars, fewer distractions, more peace.
- Layering strategy: Some riders thrive on solving the “what to wear” puzzle.
- Hot coffee tastes better after a cold ride.
Cons
- Frozen fingers & toes: Nothing kills joy faster.
- Ice and slick roads: One mistake can end your season.
- Bike maintenance headaches: Chains dry, cables freeze, tires soften.
🏁 The Verdict: Heat Wins
At 70, I choose the weather that makes my body feel the best — and that’s heat. I’ve had some heroic cold-weather rides, but I don’t need to “prove” anything anymore. Give me sunshine, sweat, and a hydration stop under a shade tree any day.
🔧 Safety Tips No Matter the Weather
- Dress for the temp, not your ego
- Stay visible — day flashers matter
- Bring more water than you think
- Know when to cut the ride short
⭐ Essential Gear for Heat & Cold
Hot-Weather Must-Haves: I own all of these
Cold-Weather Must-Haves
- Thermal cycling gloves
- Windproof jacket
- Neoprene shoe covers - I bought these in 2018
- Giro Helios Spherical Helmet — premium ventilation for heat
- Castelli Endurance 3 Bib Shorts — chafing killer
- Comfort Saddle — good for long miles
- Magicshine High-Lumen Headlight
- Garmin Varia Smart Brake Light/Radar
❓ FAQ
Is it harder to cycle in heat or cold?
Cold is harder on your extremities. Heat is harder on hydration. Pick your poison.
What temp is unsafe for cycling?
Above 95°F, watch hydration closely. Below 35°F, frostbite risk rises fast.
Should seniors avoid extreme temps?
No — but you need smarter gear, shorter rides, and more hydration breaks.
Your Turn: Are you a heat lover like me, or do you come alive in the cold? Drop your vote in the comments — I’m curious how other riders feel about this one.
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