Windsor ~ winter ~ weather ~ ride

On Sunday, Jan. 3, 2010 WRCS #1 took place. With winter weather, approx. 25 riders, mtb and cx bikes (many single speeds, vying for extra points) and a 50km route planned, we left Telula Cafe. I chose to ride a single speed. At the time I wasn't sure if I would come to regret the decision, but it worked out well. I didn't know if I had enough gear.  The ride took on a very casual pace and stories were shared. With many riders sporting balaclavas, and totally covered in winter gear, fellow riders were identified simply by voice or by their bike!!
We headed out along the Detroit River and wrapped around into Lasalle. At times the group rode 2x2, single file and even one mass of riders clustered together. We went from road to the Windsor trail, back to road..... Lots of ice but surprisingly, no casualties!! For the most part my core stayed warm, but my hands and feet fell victim to the cold. With about 15 km (+/-) remaining, a few riders turned around and headed back to the cafe. From that point the pace picked up a bit.
Heading into the last 10 km, a small group of us crossed a busy road which seperated us from the rest.  By the time I realized it we were pretty far ahead and it was just too cold to slow up.  Besides we were close to the end of the ride and we would all meet up soon inside the cafe to warm up.  The final push was a bit quicker and at times it felt like my feet couldn't keep up to the pedals.  Maybe a bigger gear for next week's ride?
All back to Telula.  Some, for a quick snack and a warm beverage.  Unfortunately I coudn't stick around.   It took the entire 40 minute drive home before I was able to feel my toes, or to move them for that matter. I think I will put the toe warmers top and bottom next time!! Looking forward to next Sunday's ride!

After Sunday's ride, Jay and I decided to hit the frozen trails of Morton on Monday. The trails were snow covered and a layer of ice laid underneath.  For the most part the snow helped with traction but as soon as I started to feel confident a quick slip of the front wheel would remind me to slow things down. 
We cut the ride short because we had to get the kids off the bus.  I was warm (body, hands and feet).  Not satisfied I tossed around the idea of biking home from there (about 45 km's).  I had the single speed again and we had just put some BIG A** nobby tires on for the trail ride, so I knew I had may work cut out for me!!  The wind wasn't going to help either. 
Jay left in the truck to get the kids and I was off.  By the time I was half way home the water in my bottle froze into slush.  The 'almost perfect' summer drink!!  Too bad it wasn't summer.  I pushed on and after a total ride of almost 60 km through snow, slush and ice I was home. 

Ride on,

Sue