Quote Originally Posted by cherinyc View Post
Ladies, the temp was MAYBE 55 degrees. Not THAT cold. Is it something you get used to? If so - how long does it take? When I got home I was coughing badly, and getting that metallic taste in my mouth - so I don't really know how much more I could take.
(ok - all of you reading this can now loudly say it, in unison....WIMP!!!!)
that's me
Aw, that's terrible! Winter riding/commuting IS a totally different experience from summer. Its joys are hard-won. Pioneer grit is called for.

Yes, cold air hurts the lungs, noses run like faucets, toes go numb, hands can no longer shift and you STILL sweat! But it boils down to this.....it's better than riding inside (most days).

Try covering your face with a polypro balaclava to warm the air going into your lungs and slowing down to reduce windchill. Think about getting a cheap pair of ski goggles for your eyes. Don't be afraid of looking like the creature from the black lagoon

It does take some time to acclimatize yourself and adjust to the inconveniences. But on that perfect blue-sky day during January, you will be outside instead of on that danged trainer! Hang in there, super-commuter!