Need rain gear ASAP

[Elphaba]

Looks like the 2013 Katie Ride in Fernandina, FL, with have some soggy conditions. High's in the mid 70s. Looking for a rain jacket that won't be stifling, but will keep my Camelback and pocket contents dry. I don't foresee ever intentionally going out riding in the rain, unless it is a scheduled (and paid for!) event like this one, so I don't necessarily want to shell out big bucks, unless it is something that will last for many years to come. Saw the clear jacket and that is very tempting, but sounds like they aren't guaranteeing it to be waterproof, or will water resistant be enough? Need to decide while I still have time to get it here with expedited delivery.

Thanks!

L

[ny biker]

Use plastic zip-close bags for anything that needs to stay dry in the rain. Put a couple of pieces of paper towel in one of the bags in case you need it. If you have a seat bag, it will get wet so don't forget to put important things in that bag in plastic.

Fenders will help a lot. I have SKS Race Blades which attach quickly and easily to a road bike. I think Planet Bikes make a similar fender.

My main problem in the rain is keeping it out of my eyes. A helmet visor or hat with brim under your helmet should help with that.

[indysteel]

I agree with Muirenn. Anything waterproof in the mid-70s is going to feel like a sauna. Even water resistant--in my experience--can be uncomfortably warm. I'd just as soon get wet than overheat. But, as others have said, make sure to keep to anything that needs to stay dry in a ziplock bag(s). You could put a plastic bag around your camelbak or just accept that it's going to get wet. I assume that this is a relatively flat ride given where it is, but if it's not, be extra careful descending. Keep a close check on your speed.

[ny biker]

If it's going to be very wet, you may consider a tire that can ride more safely in those conditions. It is flat, but you still need traction. (Perhaps Continental 4 Season). You could even try the 25 mm.

Or less air pressure in your regular tires, for better traction.

I agree that waterproof jackets can make you too warm but I've done a couple of rides where I got soaked in the rain and then was very cold for the rest of the ride because my clothes were wet. Riding in the rain in the 70s is cooler than riding in the sun in the 70s.

[ny biker]

One more thing I've learned the hard way about group rides in the rain -- follow your own judgment, not what people around you are doing. If the rain and/or wind is strong enough that you don't think it's safe to continue riding, stop riding. Find safe shelter (NOT a tree!) if you can. But just stopping on the side of the road during heavy rain to wait out the worst of the storm is better than trying to stay upright and continue riding in bad conditions.

[indysteel]

It will feel cooler in the rain, but I'd just as soon wear my arm warmers than a wet jacket, but maybe I just have the right jacket. It just makes me steam up, even in the 70s.

[Elphaba]

Just to report in, OMG we got soaked LOL! Not sure any amount of gear would have kept me dry. It was cold and windy to boot, but oddly, it was colder and more uncomfortable when we stopped than if we just kept going. Used the bathroom at one stop, and it felt like I was pulling up a cold, wet diaper instead of my bike shorts. When I changed in my car after the ride (that's a whole other story LOL) I felt like I one big cold cramp and I discovered that wind pants, even though dry, are not the most comfortable thing to put on a "bare" body!! But, when all was said in done, we did the 36 miles we came to do and survived!

[Elphaba]

None actually. Thought the jacket would be enough, but it soaked through. In retrospect, the only thing I really think I would have wanted would have been covers for my shoes. They had cold puddles in them and my feet kept cramping. I made the decision last minute not to ride with sleeves (weather was high 50s and I'm a cold weather wimp) and I am glad did actually because they would just been two more wet things on my body LOL.

[Elphaba]

Found out yesterday four riders during this ride were taken to the hospital with hypothermia!