~SPIN~4130~

Tools For Routes & Weather

*Google Earth your possible route options. This can save you a lot of heartache. It’s not fun to waste your energy away on your way to work for a double shift in morning rain.

     -when you have the time, its still good to explore possible route options. alleyways, certain bike paths, and some other infrastructure can be that “shortcut” you’ve been dreaming of and might not be so visible on Google Earth.

*@ Weather.com : I always check the hourly details. You might have to be willing to schedule your commute around weather a little bit. DO NOT RIDE YOUR BIKE NEAR AREAS OF LIGHTNING!!!!!! other than that, you may find yourself riding on your merry way, geared up comfortably in the middle of a snow downpour, the only person who braved the snow and ice. Some of my best times on the bike are when the town shuts down due to snow in particular, and there i am, riding with a grin from ear to ear as i notice im the only person out doors. As far as the rain, just know it’s coming.

*Summer rain tip- dress down. I know it’s not usually the cool thing to do in town, but lycra kits are the way to go. If your adding waterproof layers in the summer, you are going to suffocate yourself into being drenched, not in rain, but sweat. You will overheat. If its warm out the spandex/lycra kit will be more comfortable in a BIG WAY and there’s less to wick up water. towel off when your changing into your clothes for your shift, or event, or whatever. hang your wets off your bag, and they will be dry for your ride home.

*if you dont have a weatherproof bag, line your bag with a trashcan liner and then put your belongings in it.

-sidenote- riding in bad weather automatically makes you a bad-ass.