Riding Through the Furnace: What I Learned About Cycling in Extreme Heat
The day I’ll never forget was the ride from Kingsville to Raymondville. It started off hot and only got hotter. Riviera, a tiny speck of a town 20 miles outside Kingsville, was my last chance for supplies before the 60-mile haul across a scorched and treeless stretch of land. The forecast was already flirting with 110 degrees when I rolled into the gas station. I loaded up—water bottles in both cages, extras stuffed into my trailer and even tucked into my jersey pockets. I knew this stretch was going to hurt.
And I was right.
About 20 miles from Raymondville, I glanced at my cycling computer: 113 degrees. The sun wasn’t just bearing down—it felt like it was sitting on my shoulders. The pavement shimmered. The breeze, when it came, was like standing in front of a giant blow dryer. There was no shade. No stores. No signs of life. Just me, the bike, the road, and the heat.
What saved me that day wasn’t just grit—it was preparation. I had hydrated well the night before. That morning, I began drinking as soon as I started pedaling, even though I wasn’t thirsty yet. When the sun got cruel and the water in my bottles had turned hot, I started pouring it over my head. It wasn’t refreshing at first, but once the hot water evaporated in the breeze, it created an incredible cooling effect. It worked well enough to keep my core temperature in check until I rolled into Raymondville.
I was red-faced and tired when I got to the hotel, but I wasn’t cooked. I didn’t cramp. I didn’t bonk. I drank more fluids, ate bananas, and got ready for the final stretch. By sheer grace, the last day to South Padre Island was 25 degrees cooler—and one of the most enjoyable rides of the trip.
The Science of Surviving Extreme Heat
Riding in extreme heat is not just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. Here's why:
1. Your body becomes a radiator.
When you ride, your muscles generate heat. In cool weather, your body handles this easily. But in extreme temperatures, especially above 100°F, your sweat rate increases, and your body struggles to offload heat fast enough.
2. Dehydration becomes a real threat.
You can lose 1 to 2 liters of fluid per hour through sweat. That means even a two-hour ride can set you back several pounds in water weight. Dehydration reduces blood volume, which in turn limits your body's ability to cool itself. Performance plummets, and the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke rises.
3. Electrolyte imbalance.
Sweat isn’t just water—it’s packed with sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Without replenishment, muscles cramp and nerves misfire. That’s why bananas, electrolyte drinks, and salty snacks matter.
How to Ride Safely in Extreme Heat
If you’re caught in brutal heat—or choose to ride in it—here are some critical steps:
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Preload your hydration. Drink plenty of water the night before and early in the morning. Urine should be pale yellow before you start.
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Start drinking early and often. Don’t wait to get thirsty. Take small sips every 10–15 minutes.
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Carry more water than you think you need. Use every cage, bag, and pocket.
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Pour water on your head and neck. Even warm water cools as it evaporates, especially in dry heat.
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Slow your pace. Your heart is doing double duty—moving blood to muscles and to your skin for cooling.
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Wear light, breathable clothing. White or light colors reflect heat better than dark jerseys.
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Refuel with electrolytes. Use electrolyte tablets or drinks, especially on long rides.
Know the Warning Signs
If you feel:
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Dizzy or nauseous
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Chills or goosebumps in the heat
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Unusually fatigued
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Stopped sweating
Get off the bike immediately, find shade, hydrate, and cool your body. Heat stroke can happen quickly and is life-threatening.
Final Thoughts
That ride from Kingsville to Raymondville was one of the hardest I've ever done—not because of the distance, but because of the oppressive, inescapable heat. But it taught me how resilient the human body is when it’s properly prepared. It also reminded me how unforgiving nature can be when we’re not.
Would I do it again? Not on purpose. But if I get caught out there in the heat again, I know how to handle it.
And always—thank God for cooler weather when it finally comes.
Important Note:
I’m sharing what worked for me on one of the hottest rides of my life, but everyone’s body reacts differently to heat. I’m not a doctor—just a guy who’s done a lot of miles under a lot of skies. If you're planning to ride in extreme temperatures, talk to your doctor, use good judgment, and always err on the side of caution. The road will always be there—your health comes first.
